Sharks veteran Micheaux Robinson heals just in time for ArenaBowl

The Jacksonville Sharks met at the Veterans Memorial Arena Wednesday for an informal walk-through before flying to Stockton, Calif., for Saturday night's ArenaBowl championship against San Jose.

While some players were in socks during the abbreviated session, something clearly was different with this team function - Micheaux Robinson was on the field.

After spending every day of the regular season on the AFL's injured reserve, the fiery defensive back was activated in time for the championship finale.

"I feel blessed," Robinson said. "It's been a long season. A lot of ups and downs, not just on this field but in life in general. Really, really thankful I'm getting the opportunity to get back out there with these guys - actually dress and ready for action rather than being a cheerleader."

An injury to Chris Smith last Sunday during the American Conference championship at Philadelphia created a spot on the roster. Head coach Les Moss sent Robinson a text message in the middle of the night, telling him to show up Wednesday with an intention to play.

For Moss, it was an easy solution.

"He's always been one of my favorites," Moss said. "This goes back to when we were together in 2007 in Orlando. We've known each other for a long time. He's a loyal, loyal guy.

"He's been waiting for this opportunity. You couldn't have a better guy step into this situation, I know that."

Robinson was slowed by injuries during training camp. He was placed on recallable injured reserve in case he got healthy enough to return.

Robinson went to every practice. He worked on the sidelines to stay in shape. He watched scrimmages, often barking instructions to the other players.

He spent five months waiting and healing.

"I tried to be humble the whole season," he said. "I took it one day at a time. I know we've got a lot of great talent out here. It's not about me, individually. I want to make sure that I was around here and keeping my spirits high for these guys. The guys put in the work to give me this opportunity."

Robinson has been with the Sharks for six years. He was the Most Valuable Defensive Player in Jacksonville's 2011 ArenaBowl win at Arizona.

He's likely to be on special teams and a backup in the secondary on Saturday. As far as he's concerned, the only thing that matters is he will be in pads and on the bench.

The SaberCats (19-1) are trying to complete the best season in arena history. They rely heavily on wide receiver Reggie Gray (162 catches for 1,695 yards and 44 touchdowns), who earlier this week was selected as the league's top receiver.

Robinson can provide fresh legs and seven years of big-game arena experience.

"I've played this game for a while," Robinson said. "I have a little bit of knowledge that I can drop to the younger guys. Other than that, the coaching staff does a good job keeping things in order, keeping guys on task. It really didn't take much of my input to get us where we are right now."