Michael Burch is a linebacker and a running back for the St. Stephen's football team. When he's on the field, he is said to play with a lot of heart. The irony is that it is his heart that has kept him off the field.

"I felt great," exclaims Michael Burch, our ABC7 Athlete of the Week. "I had a heart murmur, so I get check-ups every two years. On that particular visit, my doctor told me of my condition."

That condition is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The same condition that led to the death of Hank Gathers during an NCAA basketball game.

Burch continues, "I was devastated. Not really for myself, but for my parents and doctor as we were all sitting there."

That was 2 years ago, and Burch had not played since. Then, as if an answer to his prayers, he was cleared to play recently.

"I'm so excited," yels Burch. Its been 2 years of not being able to do what I love. I never thought I'd play another down. Others like me never do again."

Head Coach Tod Creneti spoke emotionally, "We never expected this. We never expected a clean MRI and him to return."

Burch has been practicing, and he will make a very triumphant return to game action Friday night against Out-of-Door Academy.

"You cannot overstate the emotions for these kids," continues Creneti. "They are so thrilled to have Michael back on the field with them."

Burch says, "Every snap is a blessing. I will never go half speed again. I have a new love for the game."

His parents, and everyone else at the school await the big night that they thought they'd probably never see again.

"His dad was very emotional telling me," adds Creneti. "It is a blessing because Michael has done evrything right. He was here everyday, he kept up his work in the classroom. And to see him get his career back, there are no words for that."

Congratulations to Michael Burch of St. Stephen's Episcopal School, he is our ABC7 Athlete of the Week.