Known by many for his involvement in the political arena, it was in the hockey arena that this builder left his mark on the sports heritage of the region. First enjoying success as an athlete during the 1930s, Mickey represented Canada as a member of the 1936 Canadian Olympic Boxing Team and amassed a record of 210 wins and only 13 losses throughout his career, for which he was inducted into the Canadian Boxing Hall of Fame in 1977.

Arriving in Fort William in 1952, Mickey took over the reins as head coach of the Fort William Junior Canadiens. Behind the bench for 12 seasons from 1952-64, his style of coaching was described as tough yet compassionate, a disciplinarian, who demanded, and received, respect from his players. He also received results with the Junior Canadiens dominating the local and regional junior hockey league, claiming 10 district titles, 2 Thunder Bay Manitoba Hockey League titles and twice competing in the Western Canadian Junior Hockey finals.

Mickey's leadership created some outstanding hockey talent, including former players who eventually made their way into the National Hockey League including Pete Goegan, Eddie Kachur, Lou Marcon, and Stan Baluik. Another of his players, fellow Inductee Bob McCammon, went on to coach in the NHL.

Following his coaching duties he continued to serve as a Scout with the Montreal Canadiens a position he held until 1978. During his 25 years in public office, which ended with his untimely passing in 1991, Mickey strongly supported the existence of sporting opportunities for his fellow citizens.

Inducted into the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame, September 10th, 1994