The Freshman 15 is an app exclusive where we will shine the spotlight onto one freshman every week by asking them 15 questions. Enjoy learning the names, faces, and interesting facts about the future of Michigan Rugby.

Kicking it off will be Justin ‘Mouse’ Malin. Justin has started to emerge as a contributing member to the academy side backline. While he started this year at wing he has recently made the switch to fly-half, where his passing and game knowledge can be better utilized.

1. Hometown?
St. Louis, MO

2. Major?
Engineering

3. Position?
Wing & Flyhalf

4. Funniest thing you’ve seen on the pitch?
In high school, I had a friend who had a lot of shoulder problems. After someone else on the team had a long try in a game where we were already blowing the other team out, the friend got hyped, screamed, and threw his fist in the air, dislocating his shoulder. We had a good laugh about it after he was ok.

5. What are you scared of?
I’m scared of answering this question honestly because I’m afraid of what a teammate might do with this type of information.

6. The silliest thing you bought with you to college?
My mom packed me a big, orange pitcher of something called “Tide Liquid Detergent.” Does anyone know what I’m supposed to do with that?

7. What is your hardest class? Why?
Chemistry – It might not be the most difficult, but it is definitely the most time-consuming. I have eight hours of scheduled chemistry class every week.

8. Who is your favorite player? Why?
In my opinion, there are two possible scenarios here. You either know of Nick Cummins (and he is your favorite player), or you have never heard of Nick Cummins (and he will become your favorite player as soon as you lay your eyes on him for the first time).

9. What annoys you?
Stupid, individualized questions in a large group setting. When we’re sitting in a lecture of 300 students, no one cares about your special circumstances – ask your dumb question in private.

10. Why did you join rugby?
I only played for one year in high school, and I enjoyed rugby too much to give it up so quickly.

11. Who are your 3 dream dinner guest?
The Australian Honey Badger, Rob Gronkowski, and Mad John – If he isn’t Fun John by the end of dinner…

12. Any hidden talents? What?
I’m flexible, just ask me about it.

13. What do you want to achieve outside of rugby while at Michigan?
I want to study hard and keep the grades up while finding some sort of direction for what kind of work I would like to do in the future.

14. How do you want to be remembered in Michigan rugby history?
I hope to be remembered not as the superstar Rugby God that I am but as a solid contributor both on and off the field – someone who put in work every day to become a good player, improved the program, and made a lasting impression on my underclassmen.

15. Which team mate would you want to be?
On the pitch, I would want to be Joel. His work ethic is admirable, and he plays simple, no-mistakes rugby.
Off the pitch, I would want to be Riley. The level of carefreeness that he has is incredible, and I have come to terms with the fact that it is unattainable for myself. No one has more fun doing anything than Riley.