5 Super Athletes With Ties To Hartland

Sports have a way of teaching invaluable life lessons — building character, fostering teamwork and strengthening the bonds within a community. In the Hartland area, these values have shaped some truly remarkable athletes from different eras, whose accomplishments continue to inspire.

Patch has teamed up with T-Mobile to spotlight five standout athletes whose achievements have left a lasting mark on our community. While this list is just a snapshot, there are countless others who have helped shape the rich sports culture in our area.

1. Alexis Fundich (Gymanstics)

After overcoming an injury that sidelined her early in high school, Alexis Fundich has emerged as a record-breaking gymnast for Hartland. She set school records in all-around (37.8), bars (9.6), and beam (9.8) during a standout meet against Brighton/Howell, helping her team shatter its previous best score. A key contributor to Hartland’s regional championship and fourth-place state finish, Fundich placed sixth in the state on beam and tenth on bars.

2. Whitney Sollom (Basketball)

A dominant presence on the court, Whitney Sollom was a force for Hartland High School before continuing her career at the collegiate level. A McDonald's All-America nominee and a finalist for Michigan Miss Basketball, she led Hartland to multiple championships while recording over 1,000 career points. At the college level, the 6'4" forward has contributed on both ends of the floor, excelling as a rebounder and shot-blocker. Her athletic pedigree runs deep, with both parents competing in college sports, and she has continued her family’s tradition of athletic excellence.

3. Emerson “Emmy” Sargeant (Track & Field)

Emerson “Emmy” Sargeant rewrote Hartland High School’s track and field record books with top times in five events, including the 400 meters, where she became the first girl in county history to break 57 seconds. A multi-sport standout, she bounced back from a tough loss in the state basketball finals to dominate on the track, winning KLAA titles in the 100, 200 and 400 meters. She has since continued her career as a soccer player at Michigan State, showcasing her versatility and overall athletic skill.

4. Mark Messner (Football)

One of the greatest defensive players in Michigan football history, Mark Messner started his athletic career at Hartland High School before transferring to Detroit Catholic Central. A four-time All-Big Ten selection and two-time All-American at the University of Michigan, he set records for tackles for loss and was later named to the Wolverines’ All-Century Team. Messner played in the NFL for the Los Angeles Rams before an injury ended his career, but his legacy as one of Michigan’s all-time greats remains firmly intact.

5. Andrew Spisz (Wrestling, Lacrosse, Football)

A three-sport athlete, Andrew Spisz excelled in wrestling, lacrosse and football for Hartland High School. On the mat, he was a two-time all-stater and a state team champion, finishing third at the Division 1 individual wrestling state meet. In football, he played running back, averaging 7.3 yards per carry and scoring seven touchdowns. He also helped lead Hartland’s best-ever boys lacrosse team to a 21-1 season and a state semifinal appearance. A second-team all-state lacrosse player, Spisz continued his career at Lawrence Tech, showcasing his versatility across multiple sports.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.