It is probably safe to say that Michele is the most dominant female athlete in Talawanda track history. She still holds the school records in the 100 (12.7), 200 (26.2) and 400 (57.7) meter dashes, the 800 (2:14.5) meter run and the long jump (17 feet 6 inches). She is also a part of four relay records that still stand. Slight of build, but with a competitor's heart, Michele dominated the MML track scene from 1983-1986. During her career, she led the lady Braves to four MML titles. She qualified to the Ohio state track and field championships all four years, and she was twice all Ohio, with her highest finish coming in the 800 meter run where she placed third.
Michele attempted to play field hockey for THS but a broken wrist in two successive seasons forced her to turn to cross country. Although blessed with sprinters speed, she ran as the all important fifth runner on the women's cross country team that won 4 MML titles and placed seventh in the state meet in 1985. Michele competed for Ohio University after her graduation from Talawanda High School.
In Michele's nomination, Talawanda cross country and track coach Dale Plank stated, “I'm not sure you could find another school in the state where one individual, male or female, holds the school records in distances that range from the 100 meters through the 800 meters. The fact that she was also an excellent 5 km runner in cross country speaks to her versatility.”
Michele now resides in Shoreline, Washington where she teaches at Hilltop Montessori School. She is married to David Basener, and they have two children, Maxwell and Olivia. Tonight we recognize Michele for her athletic achievements, her commitment to excellence, and welcome her into the 8th class of the Talawanda Athletic Hall of Fame!