Finally getting to this - been a big year for me; with the best part being successfully trained to use my powers for good instead of evil. Hope you don't mind if I use that Mike - cuz I'm using it anyway. Bottom line is that Mike gets the most out of people by understanding people and teaching as well as he understands skydiving. Thanks again Mike.

I recently completed Michael's AFFI course here at Illinois Skydiving Center. I entered the course eager to learn, and completed it as a better skydiver and teacher. Michael was very adaptive to individual learning styles and made sure all participants understood the material covered. Both on the ground and in the air we were challenged by Michael's experience, knowledge, skill, and wit. Although the course was rigorous, we were also able to have a lot of fun along the way. I will most definitely consider Xcel Skydiving as my first choice when I seek a future rating such as tandem master. Thanks again for all the "hot tips" Michael, I truely gained a lot from your course and am already putting them to use.

I just completed the AFFI course with Michael. It was GREAT. Michael practices what he preaches. He is an awesome role model, mentor, and professional. I think ALL students who have the opportunity to work with Michael, both new skydivers and those working on obtaining a rating, are extremely lucky. By sharing his knowledge and skills, Michael is helping the skydiving community to grow in a safe and positive way. THANKS for everything Michael!!!

I completed Mike's coach course this past weekend at Freefall Express Skydiving in Mount Vernon, MO. WONDERFUL! Mike was one of my main instructors when I was shooting for my A license. He helped me feel comfortable and confident way back then, and he continued to pass the comfort and confidence my way during the coach course. Thank you Mike for all you do!

I completed Mike's Coach Course at FreeFall Express in Mount Vernon, MO this weekend and I feel much more confident not only in my ability to coach a student but also in my own abilities. Mike instilled the value we possess as coaches, along with the responsibilities to our students and the sport, while managing to teach each of us in the course a new thing or two in the air as well. Mike was my First Jump Course Instructor a while back and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from him again for the Coach rating. You are a great friend, invaluable part of our skydiving family, and an excellent instructor. Thanks for a Wubbulous Weekend and I hope to see you again in the future as your student and maybe a few more fun-jumps too (SPACE BALL)!! Please email me a copy of the AAD list you have and I will share with the other students here from the course, thanks again!

I just did the AFFI course with Mike. On my 3rd AFF jump, I end up by myself with a Cat A spinning student. All the skills I got during the pre course and the the actual course are paying off! You rock Mike! Thanks for your patience and time spent with us @ The Farm. Bue skies.

Just finished the AFF course with Mike. Mike personifies professionalism and I learned so much about being prepared and doing the job thoroughly. And we had a great time doing it. His energy and passion for the sport showed every single day and he worked his tail off to bring out the best in each student - both in the air and in the classroom. These lessons will apply to me every day, not just at the DZ. Thanks, brother.

Just completed the AFFI course with Mike! I can highly recommend this course to anyone that is thinking of going after there AFFI. Mikes style and personality, makes his course not only a lot of fun but very rewarding. The teaching and air skill improvement in the entire candidate pool was amazing! I also highly recommend attending his pre-course, as I am sure I wouldn't have made it through the course without it. Doug Anderson D-21098

Being from Australia and having my AFF rating there I had to challenge the course. I did the pre-course with Mike Which bassically involved a hole lot of carnage in the sky, it was a great time. Mike seems to have the ability to turn stressful times into alot of fun while teaching you eveything he can. The best part about Mike, he goes out of his way to share his knowledge with you. Thanks for your time Mike, Ive taken alot away from your course.

Well I have completed Mike's AFF-I and pre-course and I can say it is one of the hardest things I have done to date. I have been a tandem instructor for over 10 years and have forgotten how to fly my body, well Mike brought all of my flying skills out and then some, and the confidence to use them. Thank you for sticking with me and and helping remember why this is the greatest sport in the world.