Huskies play in Senior Bowl

Courtesy of MTU Athletics

CANTON, Ohio — Three former Michigan Tech football players took part in the 2013 Ohio vs. Michigan Senior Bowl at Fawcett Stadium last weekend. Seniors from Tech’s 2012 GLIAC North Division Championship squad Justin Armstrong (Las Vegas, Nev.), Jacob Clark (Lansing, Mich.) and Bryan LaChapelle (Crystal Falls, Mich.) all played for Team Michigan in the game.

Ohio won the contest 10-7, but the three Huskies all played major roles in the contest.

Armstrong, a All-GLIAC linebacker last fall, posted nine tackles. Clark, a defensive lineman two-time Academic All-American, had 1.5 sacks. Bryan LaChapelle, a three-time All-GLIAC tight end, led Team Michigan in receiving yards in the game.

“It was a fun atmosphere,” said Armstrong. “Any time you pit Michigan vs. Ohio, it’s going to be intense. It took a few series to get re-adjusted to playing, but then it felt like we picked up right where we left off.”

All of the players in the game were seniors on college teams in their respective states. All three NCAA Divisions (I, II and III) were represented. A number of former GLIAC players were on each of the rosters in addition to the coach for Team Michigan, Grand Valley State’s Matt Mitchell.

“We didn’t know what to expect, but after a few practices we became friends with guys we couldn’t stand for the last four years,” said Armstrong.

The three Huskies carpooled to two separate practice sessions at Grand Valley State and the game in Canton. The bowl organizers covered their hotel, hosted a banquet for the players and provided a tour of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

“It was probably the last time I’ll put on pads and play in a game,” said Armstrong, who played in 41 contests at Tech. “It was a good experience. I’m glad I did it.”

Armstrong is finishing up his bachelor’s degree in sports and fitness management and plans to graduate in December. Clark (civil engineering) and LaChapelle (surveying engineering) both completed their degrees last fall.