Mitchel Benhart
Geneseo, Illinois
Class of 2024
Why did you choose Central?
I found out about Central from my brother, Andrew and a high school teacher, Mr. Albers. After attending scholar day and the winter soccer camp, I knew Central was the place for me. It’s somewhere I can be myself, study something that I am passionate about and play the sport I love. I am so happy I chose Central College.
Favorite professor and why?
Dr. Anya Butt is my favorite professor at Central. I’ve loved every class that I have taken with her and she makes the learning environment enjoyable and friendly, while also teaching effectively.
You’re majoring in environmental sustainability because?
I love the outdoors. I enjoy biking, running, hiking and doing all things outside. This passion started at a young age when I was exposed to different National Parks on family trips to Utah and Montana. Seeing the beauty of God’s creation with my own eyes started a fire in me. To this day, I believe that excitement for nature ultimately led me to my current field of study.
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?
I regularly attend FCA, I am involved with campus ministries, my roommate Gabe Wilson and I lead the men’s soccer team bible study and I work at the library.
Who are your go-to musical artists?
I love music, I also love Jesus, and worship music is my jam no matter what mood I am in; Phil Wickham, Cory Asbury, Brandon Lake, Anne Wilson, Ben Fuller, Elevation Worship, Maverick City Music, Bethel Music and Casting Crowns are my favorites.
If we’re talking hip-hop, my go to artists would be Koi, Don Toliver, Joe Brown, Tory Lanez, JID, ericdoa, Baby Keem, BIGBABYGUCCI, SoFaygo, Gunna and Lil Tecca.
I have to have some country in the mix too, I get down to some Morgan Wallen, Parker McCollum, Jon Pardi, Rodney Atkins, Old Dominion, Billy Currington, Brett Young and Thomas Rhett.
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?
Playing a sport at Central has impacted my life for the better. From the soccer team, I have gained friendships that will last a lifetime and learned essential skills like time management, teamwork, sacrifice, and hardwork.
Favorite international soccer club?
Current champions of Europe. Current champions of England. Current champions of the FA Cup. Treble winners in 2023, THE Manchester CIty Football Club
Biggest pet peeves?
I don’t have many pet peeves, but losing in any capacity probably bothers me the most.
If you were 80 years old, what would you tell your children and grandchildren?
The biggest piece of advice I would give my children and grandchildren would be to enjoy being young while you can, really live life to the fullest. Life truly does fly by and if you don’t look around once and a while to appreciate what you have, you’ll miss it. Also, never forget to tell your parents that you love them.
Sporting event you’d love to attend?
World Cup Final or Champions League Final. Now if we are talking past sporting events, Game 7 of the 2019 Stanley Cup Finals, easily. Lets Go Blues!
Favorite TV Show
It is so hard to pick just ONE as my favorite. Right now I am really enjoying “Suits” on Netflix
What’s it like to play for Coach Laidlaw?
Playing for Coach Laidlaw is awesome. Over the past three years, I have felt our relationship grow beyond the pitch. He truly cares for his players and is a prime example of class. Coach Laidlaw bleeds Dutch.
What’s your favorite part about being a member of the Central men’s soccer team?
The brotherhood that comes with the team is great. I know that I have 40 guys who have my back. Some of my fondest college memories will be from hanging out with my teammates.
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
My dream would be working at a national park somewhere in the field of wildlife management. Having a house in the mountains with a wife, kids and a dog would be great too.
Favorite food from Central Market
Brisket Quesadilla is an absolute delicacy. Undisputed champion of CUIFS if you ask me.
Bucket list
Complete the RAGBRAI (bike ride across Iowa), Skydive, specifically over Dubai, Attend a Manchester City game, Attend a World Cup game, Climb a mountain, Visit all of the National Parks in the United States, Go on a backpacking trip somewhere remote
