Neil Gillett

Meet West Michigan Hawks center Neil Gillett. A graduate from Kent City High School, Neil played football until his sophomore year of high school, then chose to wrestle. He ended up wrestling at Pima Community College in Arizona.

Gillett’s biggest idols off the field are his mother and Jesus. His biggest sports idols are Larry Bird, Brett Favre, Kirk Gibson, and (golfer) Fred Couples.

Outside of football, Gillett can be found at church, doing volunteer work, golfing, or eating sushi.

“I love football, especially the team aspect,” he said when asked why he chose to be a Hawk. “Being part of a functioning organism is special. Nothing brings you closer to a group of guys faster than going out to fight with them. Being one of the older guys on the team, I think I realize how limited my time is still playing the game, so I really relish every moment I get practices, games, everything.”

Head coach/owner David Lange had great things to say about Gillett. “Neil is a guy that every coach would love to have. He is talented as a center, and he is uplifting for the

team. Outside of football he is a big teddy bear. Put a helmet and some pads on and the man can do some serious damage up front! I love Neil as a player and as a person, and I think he will contribute a lot in to the success of this team.”

You can see Neil and the West Michigan Hawks in their next game on Saturday, May 14, when they host the Lake Michigan Havoc at Skinner Field. This game will feature a benefit for Cedar Springs resident Brison Ricker, who is battling a brain tumor. Tickets will be $6 at the gate, with children 10 and under free. We hope to see you there!