Michael started playing squash at a very early age, entering his first tournament at the age of eight. He represented the South African Primary Schools team and played in the African Games jnr Tournament in Kenia when he was 12 years old.

He moved to the U.K. in 1994 with his family,settling in Stamford, where he joined the Stamford Squash Club as a thirteen year old. He soon met up with the Baileys, who introduced him to Tania's then coach, the late Mike Scanlan. Under his guidance, and with Tania as a training partner, his squash improved tremendously, and he soon became one of the most promising juniors in the U.K.

He played in the final of the u/17 British National Championships and became the no.3 ranked u/17 player in England. He was included in the England National Squad at u/17 and u/19 level and was ranked no.5 u/19 in England.

After completing his A-levels at Stamford School he was given the opportunity to study and play squash in the U.S.A. at Trinity College, Hartford, Connecticut.