Franchise ResourcesShutdown Corner
Mike Liebert #1 of the Muskego Hitmen is currently regarded as one of the best pass defenders in the IFL. The 6-foot 200 pounder has the quickness to close on any receiver in a half a blink and the tenacity to take on and tackle a 230 pound running back. Playing physical and aggressive perfectly describes Liebert’s playing style. Most cornerbacks probably could not handle facing the leagues most dangerous receivers on a weekly basis, but Liebert welcomes the challenge.
“I love going against the best wide receivers in the league, for I’m usually shadowing them each game.” Liebert said. “It’s a great challenge and measuring stick to prove that I’ve got what it takes to dominate my position, and everyone that lines up across from me, year in and year out.”
Liebert graduated from Waukesha Catholic Memorial High School in 1998 where he helped the Crusaders win a WISAA State Championship in 1996. From there he attended UW Platteville for four years then went to UW Parkside for one year and graduated in 2003. Liebert started to play flag football in 1999 where he developed most of his skill as a corner and receiver.
In 2005, Brad Abraham who was one of Liebert’s best friends from college told him about the Ironman Football League and asked Liebert if he would come and try-out for the Muskego Hitmen. The offer was to good to pass up and for the first two years Liebert played tight end for Muskego where he lead the league in receptions in 2006, but was passed up for an all-star selection. The following year Liebert made the switch to cornerback where he has excelled for the past four years. Due to his versatility and athleticism, Liebert has also filled in at receiver when needed for the Hitmen the past 2 years as well.
“Playing both ways is a challenge, but I’m always up for it!” Liebert said. “Whenever my number is called, I’m more than willing to play wherever, and do whatever it takes to help the team win.”
Liebert’s athleticism and team first attitude has served him well so far throughout his IFL career. He has earned IFL All-Star status three times as a cornerback (2007, 2008, 2009,) and is currently on pace for his fourth consecutive selection this year. He has been a team captain and leader on the field for the Hitmen for the past three seasons. During his career so far in the IFL, Liebert has intercepted opposing quarterbacks 23 times from his cornerback position and has 15 career touchdown receptions playing tight end or receiver. Those numbers without a doubt will continue to increase throughout the remainder of his career, but to Liebert there is only one thing that truly matters and that is to win an Ironbowl championship.
Each and every season the goal remains the same, and that is to help bring the Ironbowl trophy back to Muskego.
“Personal accolades are great, but the TEAM concept is the most important thing to me.” Liebert said. “There is no “I” or “Me” in this game of football, for it’s truly a team sport, where everyone must work, TOGETHER to win a championship!”
Off the field, Liebert is a personal fitness trainer and works for Synergy Strategic Fitness, a personal training studio in Mequon, WI. Synergy Strategic Fitness is contracted with Harley Davidson, where they develop and implement all of the company’s country wide wellness programs. Liebert who currently lives in St. Francis, will be marrying his fiancé Aimee this September. Mike and Aimee have a child named Colton, who just turned one year old on June 9th.
Liebert had this to say when asked what his opinion was of the Ironman Football League:
“The league is definitely improving each year. The talent level also continues to grow year by year. I have no doubts that the league will continue to improve and expand as it receives more exposure, and more great athletes are brought into the league. We have a great product, great teams, and great players, and league leadership is doing a fantastic job of keeping the IFL competitive, and putting, and keeping the league on the map!”
