Role Model spotlight: Michael Woods

Michael Woods is an elite cyclist who was once a professional runner and who started out thinking he’d be a professional hockey player. He’s a force to be reckoned with who has a fascinating story and is a fantastic role model for kids. One thing’s for sure, when he writes his book someday, we’ll be first in line to read it.

Q&A with Michael Woods

AfL: What’s your biggest fear?

Michael Woods: Climate change.

AfL: What’s your proudest moment?

Michael Woods: Marrying my wife, Elly.

AfL: Tell us about your favourite way to spend time with your family.

Michael Woods: For the past several holidays, my family has started the festivities off by going for a hike. This is definitely my favourite way to spend time with my family.

AfL: What’s your favourite season to play outdoors with your kids and what do you like to do when you’re out there?

Michael Woods: Summer. When I was a kid it was winter, but now that I am a cyclist I am a softy when it comes to the cold.

AfL: Do you have a preferred physical activity?

Michael Woods: Cycling. I love riding my bike, whether it is on the road or on the mountain bike, one of my favourite things to do in this world is hop on two wheels and explore.

AfL: Some other little-known fact about you that you’d like to share?

Michael Woods: I enjoy writing. One day I hope to write a book.

AfL: Tell us in a few words why you’re excited to be an AfL Role Model.

Michael Woods: I am very excited to be joining AfL. I have always been an active person, however, as a kid I really struggled in school. This, I believe, was because I was forced to sit, inactive, in class, for long periods of time. However, when I started running on a regular basis, I was able to calm down and focus in class. My academic performance improved dramatically because of this, and I have since become a firm believer that regular aerobic activity, and physical literacy, is essential to childhood development.