The Official Site of Merrillville High School Athletics

Well I cannot believe it, but I am currently in my thirty-second year in the education   business and starting my thirteenth year as MHS principal. With 2,220 students enrolled in grades 9-12 and 140 teachers, we are now one of the largest schools in the state of Indiana. Merrillville High School is a dynamic place where students from diverse backgrounds come together and share a common belief in valuing teamwork, leadership, and resiliency. Our students grow academically and socially in developing healthy and safe habits, as well as develop skills to be prepared for College or Careers. In every way that schools are measured, our Pirates continue to excel.

Some of my fondest memories at MHS can be traced back to my experiences on and off the field. The challenges and successes I faced in the classroom and as a two-sport athlete in football and baseball impacted me in a powerful way. That Pirate Experience-- the quality in the programming, commitment to excellence, the high expectations and relationships forged, all helped to shape my attitude and effort growing up.

Today, MHS continues to offer students opportunities to interact, grow and experience success in a variety of venues. We offer twenty one athletic teams and over thirty clubs and organizations. Research shows that students who take part in extracurricular opportunities, especially multiple sports, develop the needed foundation for success way beyond the classroom.

We continue to preserve high expectations for our students and believe that the Pirate Way gives our kids an edge in a competitive world. 

Most Sincerely,

Mike Krutz

YES, I’m still here! As I begin my 40th year at MHS I think about the thousands of Pirate Athletes that have gone through our programs. I certainly hope the majority of our alumni enjoyed your experience as a high school athlete.  Our department has always taken great pride in offering the best possible programs. At our banquets I always tell the seniors to never forget . . ."Once a Pirate, Always a Pirate".  The majority of you have moved to other states and communities. My hope is that you have all done well in your endeavors and that high school sports in some way made you a better person. Our goal today is no different than it was 40 years ago. We want our student/athletes to leave here and become responsible citizens who lead productive lives.  I do see and hear from many past Pirates and I know for a fact that the majority of you have prospered. I’m sure that you have been exemplary parents to your own student/athletes and have been the support that kids so desperately need from their parents.

Merrillville High School remains a very respected athletic program throughout the state of Indiana.  Our facilities (renovated in 1992) remain some of the best and our coaching staff continues to uphold the traditions of the Merrillville Pirates.  I hope that you have continued to keep us on your radar and you visit our web site for updates.  

Lastly, I hope that you are doing well and that life has been good. I continue to be proud of the years I served you and all of the athletes of Merrillville High School.  I will always bleed Purple and White and do all that I can to make everyone PROUD TO BE A PIRATE!

God Bless You,

Janis Qualizza

(Ms. Q)