Michigan commit Kurt Taylor talks State Championship and 2017 Polynesian Bowl

Kurt Taylor finished his high school career with a 7A Georgia State Championship on December 10 and is starting 2017 by playing in the inaugural Polynesian Bowl on January 21. He will join several other Michigan recruits and commits, including Dylan McCaffrey, in Hawaii at Aloha Stadium. The bowl staff recently shared the news on Twitter that Taylor is also the only player invited from the state of Georgia.

Kurt’s father attended and played basketball at the University of Hawaii, so having the opportunity of going back there is something he is really excited about.

I caught up with him this week to ask about this exciting opportunity after his senior year to prepare for what’s next in his career.

1. What have you been doing to prepare for the Polynesian Bowl since the Georgia State title game?

“I have been training with my personal trainer Coach D from Team 3 Sports in Conyers, GA. I’m also doing a lot of training on my own.”

2. How does it feel to be the only player from Georgia invited to play?

“I never knew that but it is a great feeling to know that someone respect your work ethic and dedication to the game of football. Once again " Hard Work Is Undefeated". Whenever have someone fly you to Hawaii for 6 days all expenses paid, you must be grateful and tell God thank you.”

3. Since your father played collegiate basketball at Hawaii, what are you most excited about when it comes to the trip later this month?

“He paved the way for me and everything he said came to fruition. To visit Hawaii again with him is a dream come true. He loves Hawaii and always told me that graduating from the University of Hawaii changed his life. Just to go back to Hawaii with him and share this experience is a dream come.”

4. Is this your first time to Hawaii and what are you planning on doing while there?

“This will be my second trip to Hawaii and I would love try the different foods and probably go snorkeling. I just want to embrace the culture of Hawaii.”

5. Anything else you are going to focus on while finishing high school to prepare for college?

“I want to continue on working in Speed , Flexibility and strength. I will run track in the spring as well.”

Kurt has been committed to Michigan since October 16, 2015. He is unlike many who others who have waited until the end of their senior year, an All-American game, a video release, or even National Signing Day to announce their decision.

He went on to explain this time in his life saying, “Hard Work Is Undefeated. I am a State Champion, I am committed to Michigan and I am traveling to Hawaii to play in a HS Bowl game.”

Make sure to catch him on January 21 when the inaugural Polynesian Bowl is televised on ESPN.