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Home , Chris Maragos, Darrell Bevell, Mark Osiecki, Ohio Hockey Classic, Steve Rohlik

IN [FOCUS] HIGHER HAND After making a kick save, freshman Ann-Renée Desbiens prevented Bemidji State from going top shelf by making this fantastic glove save in Wisconsin’s 6-0 win over the Beavers on Friday. PHOTO BY MATTHEW MCLAUGHLIN

IN [FOCUS] TAKING FLIGHT Despite having their home crowd behind them, the Seahawks didn’t lead in last Sunday’s NFC Championship Game until former Badgers QB went up top on fourth down to find for a 35-yard pass in the fourth quarter. Seattle never lost the lead and scored a 23-17 win over San Francisco to earn a trip to XLVIII. PHOTOS BY ICON SMI IN [FOCUS] FINISHING MOVE It may have been a formality, but former Badgers RB Montee Ball finished off the ’ 26-16 win over New England last Sunday with a 5-yard run that allowed the Broncos to run out the clock on an AFC Championship Game victory and berth in Super Bowl XLVIII. PHOTO BY HECTOR ACEVADO / ICON SMI

IN [FOCUS] FIRE ON ICE There’s no one in the NHL hotter than Joe Pavelski right now, with the former Badgers All-American on a tear that has seen him score 18 goals in his last 20 games for the San Jose Sharks ― including five in his last two games. The only thing that can stop Pavel- ski right now might be the league’s break for the Win- ter Games in Sochi, during which Pavelski will skate as an Olympian for the U.S. for a second time. PHOTO BY JOHN HEFTI / ICON SMI

CONTENTS JANUARY 23, 2014 // VOLUME 4, ISSUE 24

UNWELCOME GUESTS DEPARTMENTS 28 Thanks to some rowdy crowds, the Kohl Center hasn’t been the 14 LUCAS AT LARGE most hospitable place for opposing teams this season. That’s ex- by Mike Lucas actly what the Badgers need as they push through Big Ten play. 16 BEHIND THE DESK by 18 THE VOICE by Matt Lepay 38 MORE TO COME 20 BY THE NUMBERS The Badgers’ shot at an unde- Facts and figures on UW feated season is gone, but college 22 5 THINGS TO WATCH basketball is more about persever- Catch the Badgers on ance than perfection and UW is TV and the web sticking to a familiar formula. 24 ASK THE BADGERS Sherman interview thoughts 26 BADGERING Rae Lin D’alie BOWLING ‘EM OVER 46 46 INSIDE SPORTS Rave reviews are flowing in for the Football, Basketball, performances a number of Badgers Hockey, Wrestling, Track — headlined by Jared Abbrederis, 60 THIS WEEK IN HISTORY Chris Borland and James White — Welcome Wilkins have put on at Senior Bowl practice.

11

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© 2014 Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System. All rights reserved worldwide. LUCAS AT LARGE BY MIKE LUCAS // UWBADGERS.COM ‘First quarter’ starts in weight room for UW isconsin football strength done (in the weight room) during never look at it where your seniors coach Evan Simon the recruiting process. But I always have to be the leaders. I think this Westimated that it took a like to get my eyes ― and our staff’s is a great opportunity for this team full hour just getting through the eyes ― on them when they get here. to develop vocal leadership out of warm-up exercise last year because “We always view what we do every class.” he wanted to “make sure the guys as an evaluation process from the On offense, Simon said that he knew what we expected out of them warm-up exercises to the lifts. You would lean on tackle Rob Haven- and how we wanted to perform” in like to listen to what they said they stein, tailback Melvin Gordon and the weight room. did in high school. But usually I . On defense, - don’t buy too much into it until I he singled out nose guard Warren see them here when they’re in our Herring, linebacker Derek Landisch quarter”It represented under coach the first Gary offsea An- hands on campus.” and safety Michael Caputo. dersenson workout and his in handpickedwhat was the staff, “first Overall, the players were broken “One of the guys I’m looking including Simon, who also had been down by position into three sepa- forward to seeing ― and he will be at Utah State. Year 2 got underway rate lift groups: 1) defensive backs a leader, as well ― is Vince Biegel,” Tuesday when the players reported and linebackers; 2) offensive line, said Simon, noting that Biegel, an for classes ― and the start of winter defensive line and specialists; 3) outside linebacker, won the Badger conditioning. , running backs, tight Power Award as the top performer ends and wide receivers. in the strength and conditioning better feel. The guys know me now On Mondays, there will be early program. “He’s a guy who brings a and“I Idefinitely know all thethink returners you have a alot conditioning (6:30 a.m.), a speed lot of energy and drive.” better,” said Simon. “The nice part and agility emphasis and a lower Freshman cornerback Sojourn ― this being Year 2 ― is that you body workout in the afternoon. Shelton will be going through his know what you need to maintain Tuesdays will be devoted to second winter and spring condi- and what you need to work on upper body development. Wednes- tioning cycle after being a 2013 more. - mid-year enrollee, along with safety ing, highlighting work capacity and Keelon Brookins, who developed at through stages and we passed a lot recoverydays to position-specific between plays. condition a much slower rate last fall while of them“We were last yeardefinitely from thegoing stand - Thursdays will focus on heavy rehabbing from injuries. point of the guys understanding lower body lifts. Fridays on team “We want to put some more why we do the things we do and challenge runs and some weight weight on Sojourn’s frame and get why the differences were in place. room challenges, offense vs. de- him stronger,” Simon said. “We want All the veterans hit the ground run- fense and man vs. man. to get him up to the 180s. Worst- ning on Tuesday.” “Last year we did some more case scenario would be the upper The mix included seven mid- general things to introduce our 170s. year players who have enrolled for philosophy and our program,” “We see it as continuous slow the second semester. The list was Simon said. “This year, there will be cook process for him. You’re not topped by four tendered freshmen: quarterback D.J. Gillins, safety Aus- by position and by individual to get more or works harder than Sojourn. tin Hudson and offensive linemen ourmore players specific to things where along we think the waythey Theregoing towill find be a a guy lot morewho wants comfort it in Jaden Gault and Michael Deiter. need to be.” knowing everything now kind of “We’ll bring the new guys along In concert with the huge gradu- repeats itself in terms of training.” slowly,” Simon said. “You get a feel ation losses, he said, “I’m excited That holds true for everyone in for what they’ve done or haven’t to see who the leaders will be. I Year 2.

14 // VARSITY January 23, 2014 ‘First quarter’ starts in weight room for UW BEHIND THE DESK BY BARRY ALVAREZ // UW DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS Badgers’ success at next level a sweet sight ou feel like you have some- receivers and one of his weap- He’s a survivor in the league, too. thing invested when you see ons, , was gone. So It was surprising to me when Ysome of your former players it all comes back on Russell and I ’s name didn’t pop up getting the opportunity to play in a thought that he handled it well. more for some of the - Super Bowl. I’m really happy for all It’s not surprising. First of all, ing jobs that were open. I think he of them. he’s very gifted; he has all the would make a good head coach. It was neat watching the con- physical tools. He has mobility I know Russell and ference championship games last and quickness and he has a strong think very highly of him. It will be Sunday because two of the key arm and a really quick release. just a matter of time before he gets guys were Russell Wilson and He’s short, but he knows how to one of those jobs. He’s a coach’s Montee Ball. I enjoyed seeing that. kid, a gym rat, he knows what it I texted Russell the other day takes. and wished him good luck and I find passing lanes and he sees the Darrell is a pretty good story. So got a nice text back from him. He wholeYOU field. FEEL LIKE YOU HAVE is Montee. sure does represent UW well even SOMETHING INVESTED WHEN Who knows if he had left school though he wasn’t here very long. YOU SEE SOME OF YOUR a year earlier how things would I don’t see anything different in have worked out for him? You Russell from the quarterback who FORMER PLAYERS GETTING don’t know what would have hap- played for us. I see the same guy in THE OPPORTUNITY TO PLAY pened. a Seattle uniform. I see a guy who IN A SUPER BOWL. I’M REALLY But he ended up with a good does everything the right way and HAPPY FOR ALL OF THEM. team and organization and it has puts a lot of time in studying the been a very good situation. I think game. When he was with us, our coach- they are to the point where they’re The only thing different was es always talked about his com- trusting him more. how the 49ers played their defen- munication skills, whether he was It doesn’t hurt when Peyton sive ends. They were not commit- communicating with the assistants Manning is your quarterback. That ting and slanting down like they in the press box or he was just guy is the best. would on a non-running quarter- talking to his offensive linemen on Earlier in the week, I was with the sidelines. his dad, Archie Manning. I’ve and wouldn’t let him break con- I’m also happy for two other Se- always gotten along with Archie. tain.back. They kept them up the field ahawks, and O’Brien He’s just a neat guy, legitimate. He But that’s pro football. Those gives people the time of day, he’s a coaches know what they’re do- Chris is another good walk-on gentleman. ing and teams are going to adjust story.Schofield. He found a way to survive We were together for two days to what you’re doing, especially if on special teams for four years in of Playoff selec- you’ve had some success. Russell the league and now he’s going to a tion committee meetings. It was was still effective enough to win. Super Bowl. That’s pretty good. more nuts and bolts on how we’re He made the key plays. OB wasn’t highly recruited but going to do it; more about protocol I know everybody wants to be he worked hard. He came in as a and procedure. critical of the quarterback position. big linebacker and we ended up It was all good because we’re But I don’t think he has the best playing him with his hand down. getting some more answers.

16 // VARSITY January 23, 2014 Badgers’ success at next level a sweet sight THE VOICE BY MATT LEPAY // VOICE OF THE BADGERS In world of college hoops, nobody’s perfect couple of weeks ago, Ohio a couple of losses, with yet another Wisconsin football program, eh? State was the third-ranked road trip looming. While Ball and Wilson get the Abasketball team in the na- On many occasions, UW coach Bo bulk of the attention, remember tion. It now has a four-game losing Ryan has talked about how much streak. he values the conference regular good player, earning All-Big Ten Last week Wisconsin was the honorsthat Schofield and the turned team’s into co-MVP a very third-ranked team in the nation. and downs of an 18-game schedule. award (along with Garrett Gra- Then the Badgers dropped three in Inseason. his perfect How a world, team handlesthere would the ups ham) in 2009. “OB” and some dude a row. be a full round-robin schedule, but named J.J. Watt made for a fairly Last Tuesday, Indiana defeated at least 18 games gives everyone decent tandem. Wisconsin. The crowd rushed the a good sample size of your team’s quality. Especially in the Big Ten, of the Badgers’ captains in 2009, lost at home to Northwestern. The which once again is proving to be a andLike won Schofield, the program’s Maragos Tom was Wi one- crowdfloor. A rushed few days to later,the exits. the Hoosiers very deep conference. esner Award, named after the for- This week Villanova is rated mer UW football player who was a fourth in the country. On Monday IN THE COURSE OF A LONG tremendous friend to the program. night, the Wildcats lost to Creighton ― by 28 ― at home. SEASON, PLAYERS GET SICK, jumps out about Maragos is a leap- Also on Monday, Virginia AND PLAYERS GET HURT. A HOT ingFor end me, zone the first memory he that made thumped North Carolina by 15. The SHOOTER SUDDENLY GOES COLD. against Fresno State. It helped the A GOOD DEFENDER SUDDENLY Badgers to an overtime victory. Tony Bennett’s team is 5-1. When IS A HALF-STEP SLOWER THAN That 2009 team went on to weTar lastHeels paid are much 1-4 in attention ACC play, to while the defeat Miami in the Champs Sports Cavaliers, they managed all of 38 NORMAL. IT IS WHAT MAKES Bowl, and to a large extent set the points in a loss to Wisconsin. THE GAME BOTH FUN AND stage for the Badgers’ run to three Such is the world of college bas- MADDENING TO WATCH. straight conference titles. Then there is Bevell. The former As of this writing, Arizona, Is there a truly great team in quarterback who has the most fa- Syracuseketball. Here and weWichita go again. State remain the league, or anywhere in college mous run in Badgers history ― his unbeaten. While we can all try to basketball? Maybe not, but there ― is guess which team has the best are a lot of very good ones, and it is now one of the NFL’s hot coordina- chance to stay that way, reality sug- making for an interesting winter, as tors.TD dash Perhaps in the a 1994head Rosecoaching Bowl op - gests that at some point, every team it seems every night there is a result portunity will be in his future. will have a rugged stretch. that has fans talking. But for now, I hope these Bad- In the course of a long season, gers can embrace the moment. I am players get sick, and players get So who to root for in the Super sure they will. I also am sure that hurt. A hot shooter suddenly goes • • • • Badgers fans everywhere are proud cold. A good defender suddenly is a I suppose it is a win-win. Montee of their accomplishments. half-step slower than normal. BallBowl? with With Denver. so much Russell Badgers Wilson, flavor, Broncos or Seahawks? It is a It is what makes the game both tough call. But we will be parked in fun and maddening to watch. and Darrell front of our TVs to watch how some BevellO’Brien with Schofield, Seattle. Chris Maragos the Badgers have had to deal with Not bad representation for the game of them all. For the first time this season, Badgers will influence the biggest

18 // VARSITY January 23, 2014 In world of college hoops, nobody’s perfect BY THE NUMBERS

FOOTBALL With the winning the NFC championship and the Denver Broncos claiming the AFC title, Wisconsin will be represented by four former players in Super Bowl XLVIII. That’s the second-highest total of any team in the country, trailing only Tennessee (5). Chris Maragos, O’Brien Scho- field and Russell Wilson will suit up for Seattle, while Montee Ball will represent Denver. Former Badgers QB Darrell Bevell also serves as offensive coordinator for Seattle. 4

WOMEN’S HOCKEY With her 92nd career win last

Saturday, senior goaltender Alex Rigsby passed Jessie Vetter for the most wins in school history. Rigsby’s ›› 92 wins rank third in NCAA history, trailing only Noora Raty’s 114 for Minnesota and Hillary Pattenden’s 92 100 for Mercyhurst.

MEN’S HOCKEY Wisconsin’s nine-member senior class is averaging a com- bined 5.25 points per game, the 6›› best mark of any senior class in the nation. The only classes in the nation averaging more points per game are Mercyhurst’s juniors (5.65 points per game) and Ohio State’s juniors (5.50).

MEN’S BASKETBALL Entering the week, the Badgers boasted six players ranked among the top 30 scorers during Big Ten play. No other team in the Big Ten had more than three. Senior G Ben Brust leads the way for Wisconsin in league play at 5.25 14.8 points per game. 20 // VARSITY January 23, 2014

5 THINGS TO WATCH JANUARY 23 - 29

THURSDAY 1/23 • 8PM • BTN BORDER BATTLE ROYALE [WOMEN’S BASKETBALL AT MINNESOTA] 1 The Badgers travel to Minnesota on Thursday for an 8 p.m. tip from Williams Arena in Minneapolis. The game airs live on Big Ten Network with Kevin Kugler and Mary Murphy calling the game.

FRIDAY 1/24 • 8PM • BTN LET’S PLAY TWO [MEN’S HOCKEY VS. OHIO STATE] Wisconsin plays host to Ohio State for the first 2 series in history between the two schools. Friday’s game is part of BTN’s Frozen Friday doubleheader, with Matt Shepherd, Ben Clymer and Jay Wilson on the call. The puck drops at 8 p.m.

SATURDAY 1/25 • 4PM • BTN PUR-DON’T MISS THIS [MEN’S BASKETBALL AT PURDUE] 3 The Badgers wrap up a two-game road trip with a visit to West Lafayette, Ind., to face the Boilermakers on Saturday. The game airs live from Mackey Arena on Big Ten Network at 4 p.m.

SUNDAY 1/26 • 3PM • INSIDEBADGERSPORTS.COM DOG DAYS [WOMEN’S HOCKEY VS. MINNESOTA DULUTH] Wisconsin returns home to LaBahn Arena to face Minne- 4 sota Duluth in a pair of games over the weekend. Sunday’s game with the Bulldogs starts at 3 p.m. and fans can follow a live stream available on InsideBadgerSports.com.

WEDNESDAY 1/29 • 8PM • BTN WILDCAT WEDNESDAY [MEN’S BASKETBALL VS. NORTHWESTERN] 5 The Badgers buried Northwestern in the Big Ten opener on Jan. 2 and look to continue the trend when they host the Wildcats at the Kohl Center on Wednesday. Tip-off is at 8 p.m. and the action will air live on BTN.

22 // VARSITY January 23, 2014

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ASK THE BADGERS

QUESTION OF THE WEEK: What were your thoughts on the postgame interview by Seattle’s Richard Sherman after the NFC Championship Game?

MELVIN GORDON // SOPHOMORE // FOOTBALL “I’ve been there before ― I’ve never done it like that (spoken out in an interview) ― but it’s just being in the game. He’s a competitor. That’s just his competitive- ness coming out. He probably shouldn’t have gone about it the way he did, but it happened. I’m not mad at him. You make the last play to win the game for your team to go to the Super Bowl, emotions are going to be high.”

MICHELLE MUELLER // SOPHOMORE // SOFTBALL “I didn’t think it was good. I’ve always been a big believer in letting your actions speak for you.’ He made’ a great play, but the interview ruined it.”

ANNMARIE BROWN // JUNIOR // WOMEN’S BASKETBALL “I was initially shocked, but after thinking about the context of the in- terview, I love it. Sherman’s reaction was of pure passion and expressed the heat of the competition. It isn’t too often that you see athletes ex- press their true emotions, which is why I believe so many people have no respect for Sherman now. His play supported his words throughout the season that he was the best cornerback in the league. I think he went a little far with slamming an opponent, but his words weren’t part of a script, he expressed his love for the game.”

SAM DEKKER // SOPHOMORE // MEN’S BASKETBALL “It made me laugh. I know it rubbed a lot of people the wrong way, but I kind of liked it. In the heat of the moment you saw his enthusiasm and passion. Overall I just thought it was funny.”

24 // VARSITY January 23, 2014

BADGERING WHERE ARE THEY NOW EDITION RAE LIN D’ALIE For the last three years, former Badger Rae Lin D’Alie has been playing professionally in Italy. She returned to Wisconsin during the holiday season and even attended the Green Bay game in the Kohl Center on Dec. 30. D’Alie played for the Badgers from 2006-10. The 5-foot-3 point guard started 131 of 132 games during her career, setting UW records for consecutive games played and started. The Waterford, Wis., native finished her career ranked second in career assists (483) and sixth in assists per game (3.66). What is living in a foreign country like? “Living in a foreign culture is an experience that I am so grateful for and will always remember. I have loved getting to know the ways of the Italian people and the experience has helped open my mind to the idea of being different and adapting to new things. The Italians I am surrounded by have taken me under their wing and have taught me many things. They have taught me about food and the importance of family, two things they do the right way! I have had the opportunity to travel to many of my teammates’ home cities and stay with their families, which has been a true blessing.” How is European basketball different than U.S. basketball? “In Europe, we play with a 24-second shot clock, where in the U.S., women’s collegiate basketball plays with a 30-second shot clock. There are also a number of rules that are different like traveling calls and some foul calls. Also, I have found that American basketball seems to focus more on the physical part of the game ― how strong, quick, and fast an athlete can be, whereas Italian basketball is focused more on the technical aspect of the game.” You also played with the Italian National Team. What was that experience like? “The experience with the Italian National team was really fun. I spent

European Championships. We traveled around Europe playing and visitingthe summer various of 2012 cities, with I learned the team a lot playing that summer in the qualifications and even had ofa the chance to meet up with former Badger Ivana Mijalcevic in her home country of Serbia!” You had to learn Italian. What was that like? “Before I lived in Italy I took two semesters of Italian at UW. While the courses were a good start to the language, I still found it

and outside of one other player, I am the only English speaker. Idifficult found myself to communicate. frustrated oftenI am the as aonly point American guard because on my teamI wanted to help out my teammates and be able to communicate, but I just didn’t have the ability to do so. One of my teammates,

basically my personal translator. I learned the language over Camillatime by Ardito,being saturated was a huge in ithelp. and In I also the firsttaking months, courses she in wasthe city with other foreigners. I was in class with people from all around the world, it was wonderful!”

26 // VARSITY January 23, 2014

A SEASON ON THE RINK Thanks to a rowdy crowd, the Badgers’ home has become a loud house just in time to help provide a boost to Wisconsin on its first run through the

BY MIKE LUCAS UWBADGERS.COM

• GREG ANDERSON DAVID STLUKA DAVID

isconsin hockey coach Mike Eaves always ney were his wife Beth and his brother Murray, four knew that he could go “home” again. He years his junior and a former University of Michigan W hockey player. he did return nearly 40 years later. The lesson for Eaves was that nothing is quite the While attendingjust wasn’t the sure 2005 what Frozen he might Four findin Colum when- way you remember it, or left it. “But just going back,” bus, Ohio, Eaves decided to take a side trip to Buck- he said, “and revisiting where we used to live when eye Village, the student family house community for you were young was really unique.” the . In 1966, took over the Ohio State “It was a memory lane visit,” Eaves said. hockey program, replacing , who went on to have success at the University of Minnesota Buckeye Village since the mid-to-late ’60s when his and as a pro coach and general manager. familyIt was lived the there first timefor two that years Eaves while had hisbeen dad, back Cecil, to Cecil Eaves had moved the family from Saskatoon, was completing work on his P.h.D. at Ohio State. Saskatchewan to Columbus and he shared some “I was John Brockington’s paper boy,” Eaves re- common ground with Neale, both were Canadians called fondly. who loved hockey. Brockington was a bruising, 6-foot-1, 225-pound “I know my dad has gotten some kudos for start- running back who helped lead the Buckeyes to the ing the program there,” said Mike Eaves, consensus national title in 1968. Later, he was a who wanted to set the record straight on Cecil’s role; he supported the sport but didn’t coach it. “I remember going up to his door and knocking “Really what it was,” he said, “he helped stimulate ―first-round draft choice of the . some growth at a very basic level. He was trying to the whole doorway,” said Eaves, who went to the get ice for us kids and he talked to the people in the he was the biggest man I’d ever seen and he filled Phys Ed department who ran the rink. “It was a great experience living there. We deliv- “We started going early in the morning ― skating eredfifth andpapers sixth to grade the whole in Columbus. Buckeye Village and it was and doing other things ― and other people hooked a great job for us kids. It brought some income into on to that. He didn’t start the program but he and the family while my dad worked on his P.h.D.” Harry Neale talked hockey and promoted it.” Accompanying Eaves on this sentimental jour-

• • • • 30 // VARSITY January 23, 2014 here was no greater promoter than Bob John- light of the hazardous travel conditions because of a son, who was the Wisconsin coach the last Jan. 10 ice storm in Madison. Ttime Ohio State played in Madison on Jan. 29, At his postgame news conference, Eaves will 1969. The Badgers won, 10-1, at the Dane County usually take questions without making an open- Coliseum. ing statement. But after the 5-2 win over the Wol- The most recent meeting with the Buckeyes took place in October of 2007 when Ohio State beat Wis- heart. consin, 5-3, in the championship game of the Lefty verines,“My opening he wanted statement to say somethingwas a thank-you first from to thehis McFadden Invitational in Dayton, Ohio. people who came out,” he said. “To get almost 10,000 Prior to that, the Badgers won, 4-2, over the Buck- was a tribute to them and their passion for Badgers eyes in front of 40,890 at the 2006 Frozen Tundra athletics, in this case Badger hockey. Hockey Classic at . It also doubled as “Our guys said they fell coming to the rink that the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game. night. How people got there, I don’t know.” Given their limited hockey history ― they’ve played only three times in the last 45 years ― what will be the fans’ reaction to this weekend’s series “(The crowd) was fun to see and it helped between Ohio State and Wisconsin at propel us (against Michigan),” Rumpel said. the Kohl Center? Will it go beyond the realization that “You just want to win to keep the fans , a member of the UW’s coming and you want to keep on the kind 1990 NCAA championship team, is the head coach of the Buckeyes? (Rohlik re- of roll that we’ve had going.” placed , who was also on GREG ANDERSON that ’90 team.) “If I’m a student and I’m here,” Eaves said, “and I know that one of the rea- sons I came here is that because Wis- consin is a Big Ten school, if we’re play- ing Ohio State, I’m going to go.” Citing the tradition and history of the Big Ten, Eaves just feels that any com- petition between the Badgers and an- other league school should be appeal- ing, whether you’re a hardcore hockey fan or not. Eaves, in fact, is starting to come around to the thinking that the Big Ten brand is stronger than anyone imag- ined. “I’m leaning that way,” he said. “I think the proof is going to be in the pudding.” Singling out the Michigan series at the Kohl Center, he said. “How do you explain that on a Saturday night ― and the kids aren’t back ― we’re getting 14,000? It has to be tied to the Big Ten.” Eaves thought it was even more im- pressive that the Badgers drew 9,499 for the series opener on Friday night in

31 saying. “We almost fell a few times just on the walk his season, the Badgers are 12-1-1 at the Kohl overUW here goalie (the Joel Kohl Rumpel Center),” confirmed he said. “We what might he was as Center. They were• 10-8-3 • • • last year. well have put our skates on and skated over.” T “When people ask us about our little run - here at home,” Eaves said, “the thing that has gone day night when they skated in front of 14,273, the largestThe Badgers home crowd were definitelysince February energized of 2012. on Satur The most of the games. The percentages are on your side listed capacity is 15,359 at the Kohl Center. towell win for those us is games that we with have the scored great starts.early and first in “In warm-ups, I remember talking to Frankie “With 10 seniors and almost half the team upper- (Simonelli) and just looking up and seeing the crowd ― and they’re up there (the upper tier),” said Jefferson Dahl, a se- ready to give us those great starts ― and it would nior forward from Eau Claire, Wis. beclassmen, the No. I 1 think reason they (for finally the homeget that record). Is it the “That was really cool. We haven’t had a crowd whole reason? No. But it’s a big component.” quite like that all year.” One of the team leaders, Jake McCabe tried to Rumpel, a junior from Swift Current, Saskatch- bring a player’s clarity to the reemergence of a ewan, was a little surprised but grateful for the turn- home rink advantage that so far has been one of the out. storylines in unison with the bye-heavy schedule. “It was the best environment I’ve seen here in awhile,” he said. “With just the energy (from the bit more when you’re on your home ice and when fans) you have a smile on your face when you’re out your“I would fans are say excited that it aboutgets your the bloodgame,” flowing said McCabe, a little there playing. a junior defenseman from Eau Claire. “It was fun to see and it helped propel us (against “In a game, there are waves of attacks from each Michigan). You just want to win to keep the fans side. When you have that wave and that momentum coming and you want to keep on the kind of roll that in your favor, the momentum is just that much big- we’ve had going.” ger when you have the home ice.

WATCH: BADGERS FIND SUCCESS AT HOME

32 // VARSITY January 23, 2014 HOME IS WHERE THE WINS ARE Wisconsin's teams have performed remarkably well in front of their home fans this year, going a combined 71-16-1 in Madison.

Football: 6-1 Women’s Basketball: 5-3 Men’s Soccer: 10-0-0 Men’s Hockey: 12-1-1 Women’s Soccer: 4-4-0 Women’s Hockey: 13-1-0 Volleyball: 9-5 Wrestling: 2-0 Men’s Basketball: 10-1 TOTAL: 71-16-1 (.813)

“The perfect example was that we rode our fans (in the Michigan series). They were excited about it and then we got amped up on the bench and played well for them. “Our attendance hasn’t obviously been great the last few years but that Saturday game with the 14,000 could have been close to 15,000 if the students were here. Hopefully it can jump-start our fans.” The aforementioned schedule has been a factor. The Badgers are about to close GREG ANDERSON out their longest homestand in school history: 12 straight games dating back to ustaining momentum, though, can be a chal- lenge, especially when it’s out of the control of “When we come into the Kohl Center, we expect players and coaches. After sweeping Michigan, tothe win first every weekend night in ― December. we don’t expect to lose at all,” S the Badgers had a bye and didn’t play last weekend. McCabe said. “Obviously we lost to Alaska Anchor- “It’s been kind of an interesting process,” Eaves age and that was a little slip-up. But the rest of the said, “because the number of byes that we’ve had homestand we’ve found ways to win and that’s cru- forces us to be creative in terms of what we do with cial. our kids to keep their interests up.” “Maybe we’ve just matured. We have a veteran Maybe the only way to measure how effective you team now and we take more pride in it (protecting have been in maintaining the competitive edge dur- home ice). When you go on the road to North Dako- ing these open dates is by “how successful you are ta or Minnesota, it’s a hostile environment and their at the end of the week,” Eaves said. fans really get into the game. “Obviously, it stinks having the weekend off,” Mi- “Like I spoke about earlier ― the waves and the chael Mersch opined. Can you blame him for feel- momentum shifts ― it’s not easy playing against a ing that way? Mersch had a hat trick in the opener team (on the road) that has a lot of momentum with against Michigan. their fans behind them. We appreciate the support - that we get here and we’ve learned not to take it for thing,” he said. Crediting Dahl, who assisted on each granted.” of “Ithis was goals, my hefirst added, hat trick “I was since in bantams the moment or some and things just happened for me.” • • • • 33 IN PARTICULAR, EAVES NOTED THAT RUMPEL IS

DAVID STLUKA DAVID THE “BACKBONE” AND “SPECIFICALLY IN OUR SPORT YOU NEED TO HAVE THAT GOING” IF YOU’RE GOING TO BE SUCCESSFUL.

movie, “Lone Survivor” starring Mark Wahlberg in the role of a Navy SEAL. It was ideal for team-building in that the plot revolved around brotherhood,

lines in Afghanistan. sacrifice and survival behind enemy type of individual that it takes to be a SEALEaves and has how always that level identified of commitment with the can transfer to other areas of life and sports. As far as identifying the players that the Badgers couldn’t survive without this season, Eaves started with the - tenders, Rumpel and Landon Peterson, a junior from Oregon, Wis. In particular, he noted that Rumpel is

sport you need to have that going” if you’rethe “backbone” going to beand successful. “specifically Rumpel in our is 10-1 with a .932 save percentage.

indispensable player on the blue line, whileEaves saying also this identified about Dahl, McCabe “He’s as a lit an- Eaves tried to keep his players sharp last week tle bit in the middle of how we are going by doing some different things. There was a “Wisco and what we need to do. He’s not a totally offensive vs. the World” scrimmage, featuring the Wisconsin- player; he’s not a totally defensive player. But as he bred players versus everyone else. plays, we kind of feed off that.” “The World team won, we swept them three McCabe agreed that it starts with the goalies ― games,” said Mersch, a senior from Park Ridge, Ill. “It “Every time they’re out there they give us a chance was fun to get some camaraderie with the guys ― to win” ― and he also praised Dahl for being “one of giving it back and forth a little bit.” the most consistent guys on the team. He provides Eaves also took the team to a curling rink in Mc- great leadership.” Farland. His mom was a Canadian senior champion. To this end, McCabe said, Simonelli is another “The guys with touch (in hockey),” Eaves observed, leader. “We have a great captain in Frankie; he will “had touch in that game (curling) too.” kick you in the butt when you need to get kicked in Interjected Dahl, “The best part was watching the butt,” he pointed out, “and he’ll do whatever this everyone start from the block and get down in that team needs to do to win. That’s what you need out of crouch (with the stone). You could tell who the more a captain.” In general, Rumpel said, “There’s a good energy After curling, a large group of players went to the and good vibe in the (locker) room.” flexible guys were.”

34 // VARSITY January 23, 2014 play at this level.” he Badgers are well-represented on the Hobey Quizzed on the adjustments that must be made Baker watch list •with • • •Rumpel, McCabe and to college hockey, Besse said, “It’s just to the overall TMersch, who’s the team’s leading scorer with speed of the game. Everyone is so much faster and so 14 goals and 10 assists. much stronger than they were back in high school in With so many proven upperclassmen only two Minnesota. Another thing would be the attention to freshmen have seen much detail and the systems.” ice time: Jedd Soleway, a “We want other people to talk about us Mersch has been track- 6-foot-3, 215-pound de- ing Besse’s progress and fenseman from Vernon, this way, ‘Boy, they play hard; they play said, “There are a lot of B.C., and Grant Besse, a smart; and they play well together as a growing pains your fresh- 5-10, 178-pound forward man year. But he’s doing from Plymouth, Minn. team.’ We’re going to build our identity Besse was the 2013 Mr. around that foundation,” Eaves said. them. He’s a pretty talent- Hockey in the state of Min- edwell; player. he’s Hefighting has that through goal- nesota after scoring 48-goals at Benilde-St. Marga- scorer’s mentality. It’s just something that comes ret’s (the same high school that produced former natural for him.” UW basketball star Jordan Taylor). From the time that Besse arrived on campus, he “He’s right on course,” Eaves said of Besse, who felt like he belonged because the older players “were has six goals and four assists. “Every week he takes a an especially accepting group” and they welcomed step or half-step forward in learning what it takes to the newcomers with “open arms.”

WATCH: HOW TO BE A COLLEGE HOCKEY PLAYER

35 GREG ANDERSON

“It starts with our heart,” Dahl said. “When we’re playing our game, we’re winning races and battles in the corners and most likely we’re coming out with the puck.”

― ith so many veterans, what then is the we can’t go out and search for it. The Michigan series team’s identity?• •After • • 20 games, Eaves still wasclass,” big he for said. us. Games“It’s something like those that will hashelp to us find form us our Wisn’t sure. identity.” “I can’t tell you (what it is) but I can tell you what with our heart,” he said. “When we’re playing our is going to be something that evolves from within game,Dahl we’re figures winning it begins races with and battles one thing. in the “It corners starts thepart locker of it needs room. to We, be,” as Eaves a coaching said. “The staff, final have product shared and most likely we’re coming out with the puck.” this with the team. Rumpel feels the identity is “still forming a little “We want other people to talk about us this way, bit. We don’t have any term or words yet to describe ‘Boy, they play hard; they play smart; and they play it.” At least not like Eaves’ favorite phrase “Making well together as a team.’ We’re going to build our hay while the sun shines” to describe the homestand. identity around that foundation. Now, the unique “We have great depth, we’re a hard-working team identity of this team is based on the personalities and I’d say we’re building on that,” continued Rum- that we have in the locker room. pel, who predicted the identity “would be coming “Every team is different and something happens out pretty soon.” within the year where you rally around someone’s McCabe had a similar gut reaction to whether the illness or injury or something. You kind of have to Badgers are getting closer to establishing one. “We’re stumble on to it, you can’t force it. I know I’ve tried getting there,” he said. “The Michigan weekend was to coach an identity into a team. And, right away, you a step in the right direction. We want our older guys know that it’s not going to work.” taking over a little bit, taking the reins that coach There are no short cuts, no scripts, no timeline for (Eaves) has been saying. the process. “It has to evolve from the inside-out,” “In my three years, I’ve been through a lot and our Eaves said. “It has to be forged as the year goes on. seniors have been through a lot. We’ve never really They have to grab on to something that they feel is had an extended postseason run. That’s what we’re worth their identity in hooking their reins up to. shooting for this year. Obviously with the inaugural “As we move through these conference games, Big Ten season, we want that title and hopefully it what you saw against Michigan is something where carries us deep into the postseason.” we want the roots to grow deep and become solidi- Wisconsin has enjoyed a competitive rivalry with Ohio State in football and basketball that has contin- and any kind of situation that comes up on the ice ued to grow in relevance and intensity. Hockey can withfied to a greathandle maturity.” any situation, any call by the referee join the fray this weekend at the Kohl Center. “Every- Mersch also has pondered the identity question. body is geared up,” McCabe said. “The last half of the “We’ve been talking about it a little bit as a senior season is all Big Ten now.”

36 // VARSITY January 23, 2014

THIS IS NOT THE END

A chance at a perfect season is gone, but it will take more than a rare losing streak to derail a still-promising season for the Badgers

BY MIKE LUCAS UWBADGERS.COM PHOTOS BY DAVID STLUKA • THIS IS NOT THE END

A chance at a perfect season is gone, but it will take more than a rare losing streak to derail a still-promising season for the Badgers

BY MIKE LUCAS UWBADGERS.COM PHOTOS BY DAVID STLUKA • isconsin’s Frank Kaminsky and Josh Perspective, historical or otherwise, can be both - W spective, a valuable quality to have in bal- capacity to view things in their true relations or rel- ancing theGasser wins andhave losses their ownover definitionsa lengthy collegeof per ativeuseful importance; and instructive particularly since, by when definition, your defense it’s the basketball season; especially since no NCAA team has sprung a leak or your jump shots aren’t falling has gone unscathed since Bo Ryan quit his high and the other team can’t miss. school gig to be a Wisconsin assistant. Kaminsky’s perspective dates back to when he was a senior at Benet Academy, a Benedictine high contract with the Badgers ― he was making $11,500 school in Lisle, Ill., 24 miles outside of Chicago. Go- at LessSun Valleythan two High weeks (Aston, after Pa.) Ryan and signedgot $16,000 his first to ― ― In- led by Kaminsky and Dave Sobolewski ― were 28-0 diana capped an unbeaten 1976 season by beating anding intoranked the No. sectional 1 in the semifinals, state of Illinois. the Redwings Michiganjoin Bill Cofield’s at the Spectrum staff (perspective, in Philadelphia, indeed) Pa. But they ran into Ryan Boatright, a UConn recruit, So the last time a college head coach didn’t have and a hot-shooting East Aurora team that made 14 to worry about whether his team would be able to bounce back after a defeat, Bob Knight was the forged a 17-point lead. Even though the Redwings - gotof 26 within shots, one, including 49-48, five they triples, had dug in thetoo first big of half a hole and dency, Tony Dorsett was the Heisman winner and and fell, 60-52. Boatright had 29. Applecoach, wasGerald coming Ford outwas with on the a personal final legs computer. of his Presi “It was shocking because we hadn’t lost yet and I

40 // VARSITY January 23, 2014 freshman season when the Badgers won their Big “It would have been great to be still Ten opener and then lost three straight, including undefeated,” Kaminsky said, “but we’re back-to-back home games. Yet, they regrouped and still advanced to a Sweet 16. learning from this and I think it will Last season, he recalled that Wisconsin also had a help us in the end. This team will “little bit of a tough stretch” when the Badgers lost three out of four league games in January, including bounce back and we’ll be better and a home loss to Michigan State. That team ended up stronger than we were before.” in the Big Ten tournament title game after knocking off Michigan and Indiana. “Every team adjusts differently to negativity,” Ka- minsky said. “It would have been great to be still un- defeated but we’re learning from this and I think it will help us in the end. This team will bounce back and we’ll be better and stronger than we were be- fore.”

Before the start of the 2012-13 season, he blew out hisGasser’s knee during perspective an October definitely practice, grew outhad of recon pain.- structive surgery and missed the entire year. Gas- ser has since returned to the team and the starting lineup with a little different outlook on things. “All throughout my life ― in high school and my ― you just hate los- ing so much that it kills you (when you do lose); you takefirst coupleit almost of worseyears ofthan college you should,” said Gasser, a redshirt junior from Port Washington, Wis. “I hate losing. I want to win a Big Ten title so bad.” Pausing, he then admitted, “At the same time, I have a little different perspective this year.” hadn’t really remembered what it was like to lose,” Gasser still hates losing. He still wants to win a Big - Ten title oh so badly, maybe worse than ever. But he lewski, now at Northwestern, had 13. “I just remem- may be better equipped now to handle losses in Jan- bersaid beingKaminsky, in the who locker finished room with afterward 12 points. and SoboI was uary because of what he has already gone through. completely shocked that it was over.” “It can all be taken away from you in a split-second,” Kaminsky reached back for a “Friday Night Lights” he said. “I realized that last year.” reference ― a made-for-television drama based on It has probably heightened his focus, if anything, H.G. Bissinger’s best-selling book ― to bring some because he has gained a greater appreciation for context to what he was feeling. “You can win and what he has been able to do again. “I’m really fortu- you can lose at any time” he said. “That really kind nate,” Gasser said, “to be able to put on a Wisconsin of keeps things in perspective for me.” jersey, to be able to play in front of great fans, to play The experience, however painful, has allowed Ka- with my teammates.” minsky to stay more even-keeled during the highs Moreover, he’s looking forward to the “opportu- and the lows of this season. After setting a school nity of getting back on track” after running across some potholes. “It doesn’t mean that all of a sudden have been tested by adversity, some conference we’re a terrible team,” he said. “We know we’re a losses.record by winning their first 16 games, the Badgers Kaminsky hasn’t forgotten how Wisconsin went just have to stay the course.” through what he called a “tough stretch” during his pretty good team. We just have to stay confident. We

• • • • 41 asser and Kaminsky can both offer some “You don’t want to give guys layups,” Gasser said. perspective on the evolution of the ball “If they’re shooting contested jumpers, sometimes G you have to live with that. You’d rather give up a teams play offense and defense today. “I don’t think 15-footer with a hand in their face as opposed to a you canscreen watch anda game how or it even has influenceda possession the when way dunk. That’s the thing with this game: you’ve got to there isn’t a ball screen taking place,” Gasser said. pick your poison a little bit.” When Michigan wasn’t executing its two-man ac- As such, the way the game is played has under- tion ― with 6-foot-6 Nik Stauskas playing off one of gone change. “In high school,” Kaminsky said, “ev- the bigs, Jordan Morgan or Jon Horford ― the Wol- eryone would trap and hard hedge ball screens but verines were utilizing multiple ball screens on the I don’t see that very often in college. A team will ei- same possession to free up shooters against Wis- ther go out and trap or they will soft hedge like we consin last Saturday at the Kohl Center. “It’s easy to guard one,” Gasser said. “But when “You can kind of sit back and force the guard into you get a bunch thrown at you from different angles takingdo. It has a tough definitely 2-point been shot,” an evolution. he said of a commonly on the court, that’s when it gets hard to guard. The applied strategy. “If not, then you can switch on him more decisions you have to make, the more you have and try to force him back to the help. Forcing them to think defensively. If you get confused and make a to make a bad decision is what you want.” mistake, teams will take advantage of it.” As challenging as it can be, Kaminsky has the The man in the middle of the paint is often the skills to present his own challenge in the pick-and- man on an island with ball screens.

pop game at the other end of the floor. “That’s why

“They always say, ‘Good O beats good D,’” Gasser said. “Sometimes you’re doing the right thing, you’re doing exactly what the game plan is calling for, but players are going to make shots, they’re going to make plays.”

42 // VARSITY January 23, 2014

it’s so nice to have a guy like Frank who can step to get a rebound and control it. There are just so out and shoot the 3 and make bigger guys come out many sequences that go into getting a stop defen- with him on the ball screen,” Gasser said. sively and that’s why it’s hard to be a good defensive When Kaminsky is not in the game, freshman team. Nigel Hayes can force the defense to respect a dif- “Anybody can guard for one possession. But ferent facet of the Wisconsin offense and a different guarding consistently for 40 minutes is tough. They skillset. “Guys like Nigel,” always say, ‘Good O beats said Gasser, “can roll to the good D.’ Sometimes you’re “IT DOESN’T MEAN THAT ALL OF A doing the right thing, you’re down low, and that’s hard to SUDDEN WE’RE A TERRIBLE TEAM,” doing exactly what the game guard.”hoop strongly and finish GASSER SAID. “WE KNOW WE’RE A plan is calling for, but play- The trick is getting con- ers are going to make shots, secutive stops, especially PRETTY GOOD TEAM. WE JUST HAVE they’re going to make plays.” with the rules emphasis on TO STAY CONFIDENT. WE JUST HAVE The solution may not be no hand-checks and fewer simple. But the response is. charges. “You can’t play as TO STAY THE COURSE.” “You move on to the next physical on the perimeter,” possession and you stay Gasser said. “And if it’s 50/50 on the block/charge, - it’s going to be a block, so you have to make sure tive during and after the long winning streak to you’re there early, really early. confident,” said Gasser, who had the same perspec - the next one.” How so? “By staying focused and en- ued, “you’ve still got to clean up the glass, you’ve got ergized,”open the heseason. said, win“You or flip lose. the page and move on to “And when you finally do get a stop,” he contin

44 // VARSITY January 23, 2014

INSIDE FOOTBALL BY BRIAN MASON @BADGERFOOTBALL

Badgers shine for scouts SENIOR BOWL NFL NETWORK SCHEDULE Thursday Practice 3 p.m. during Senior Bowl prep Recap Show 9:30 p.m. Friday Week in Review 9 p.m. Abbrederis, Borland and White draw praise Saturday Senior Bowl 3 p.m.

ho were the winners selected for the Senior Bowl, and losers of weigh- along with Jacob Pedersen and class for at the position. Win day? Dez Southward — were listed Yes, winners and losers of among the losers from weigh- Wednesday that Borland “is an animal. weigh-ins. That’s the level to ins. At 6-0 and 189 pounds, Ab- Great• ESPN’sinstincts. ToddStrong McShaythis wk as tweeted rusher which prospects for the 2014 brederis measured in “shorter and in cvg. Doesn’t have measurables but NFL Draft are being dissected and lighter than expected.” who cares. He’s a player!” this week in Mobile, Ala., lead- Borland has the shortest arms ing up to the Senior Bowl, the of any linebacker in Mobile. praise for his strong work in pass pro- nation’s most prestigious col- tection,• Not as surprisingly, a pass-catcher White and has as drawna con- lege all-star game. however, all three have been sistent runner. According to one account Those prospects’ week un- onSince a winning they’ve streak, taken the accord field,- of Tuesday’s practice, “White’s lone ugly der the microscope began ing to the media members and rep came as college teammate Chris Bor- when they were sized up Sun- draft pundits on site: land beat him with a swim move.” day in front of a room full of For the Badgers, this week is about personnel from NFL teams. com’s Andy Fenelon that Ab- proving to NFL scouts that the tale of the Jared Abbrederis, Chris Bor- brederis• An AFChas scout “consistently told NFL. (video) tape is more telling than the tale land and James White — three been the best receiver on the of the (measuring) tape. So far, so good.

46 of// VARSITY the five January former 23, 2014 Badgers field this week” in a deep draft

INSIDE MEN’S BASKETBALL BY PATRICK HERB @BADGERMBB SCHEDULE (16-3, 3-3) LAST TIME OUT Jan. 18 Michigan L, 70-77 Wednesday at Minnesota L, 68-81 COMING UP Saturday at Purdue 4 p.m. Jan. 29 Northwestern 8 p.m.

(6.3) per game, was also named to the Naismith Award Preseason Top 50 list. The Sheboygan, Wis., native is one of just four players to rank among the Big Ten’s top 15 in both points and rebounds per game. Dekker has earned four dou- ble-doubles this seasons, including 10 points and 10 rebounds last Saturday against Michigan. Dekker is shooting 50.0 percent on the season, going exactly 100-for-200 from

As a freshman, Dekker earned hon- orable-mentionthe field, good for All-Big 14th inTen the accolades Big Ten a ‘Wooden’ it be nice: Dekker year ago by averaging 9.6 points and 3.4 rebounds for the Badgers. earning mid-season praise One of four true freshman to start a game under Bo Ryan, Dekker largely Sophomore named player of the year candidate played the role of sixth man in 2012- 13, shooting 41.8 percent from 3-point ednesday afternoon formance and team records, range during Big Ten play. sophomore Sam are the frontrunners for col- Other recent Badgers to appear on the WDekker was named lege basketball’s most pres- Wooden Top 25 list include Devin Harris to the Wooden Award midsea- tigious national player of the (2004) and Alando Tucker (2007). son top 25 list. He spent that year honor. The 38th-annual Wooden Award will evening backing it up with 20 “It’s an honor to be included honor the men’s and women’s winners, points and six rebounds in a on this list alongside the great and will include the presentation of the loss to Minnesota at Williams players in the country,” Dekker Wooden Award All-American Teams and Arena in Minneapolis. said. “My focus right now, the Legends of Coaching Award. It will Chosen by a poll of nation- though, is on making our team take place the weekend of April 11-12, al college basketball media better and getting us back on 2014, at the Los Angeles Athletic Club. members, the list is comprised track.” Follow the candidates and get the lat- of 25 student-athletes who, Dekker, who leads the team est news throughout the season by log- based on their individual per- in points (14.1) and rebounds ging on to www.WoodenAward.com.

48 // VARSITY January 23, 2014

INSIDE WOMEN’S BASKETBALL BY DIANE NORDSTROM @BADGERWBB SCHEDULE (9-8, 2-3) LAST FOUR Jan. 9 at Michigan L, 62-70 Jan. 12 Iowa L, 65-82 Jan. 15 Indiana W, 65-60 Jan. 18 at Northwestern L, 58-74

COMING UP Thursday at Minnesota 8 p.m. Sunday Michigan Noon Jan. 30 at Michigan State 6 p.m.

JOHNSON HITS 32 AT NORTHWESTERN ● Johnson’s career-high 32 points at Northwestern on Saturday were the most points for a Badger this season. It was also a career best for the trans- fer, improving upon her previous best of 25 points at Washington on Dec. 13. The 6-foot-3 post was 13 of 18 (72.2 percent) from the field and 6 of Junior Michala Johnson 6 from the line. She also shared game- scored a career-high 32 high honors with 10 rebounds, re- points at Northwestern. cording the fifth double-double of the year and of her career.

BIG TEN BATTLE Consistency wanted: UW ● The Badgers are currently tied for seventh in the Big Ten standings at needs all-around play 2-3. The conference race has been a battle with every team losing at least Wisconsin struggles to click on all cylinders one game and and every team win- ning at least one game. espite the fact that two gled the last two games. Previously undefeated Michigan Badgers are coming off “We’ve got to get more con- State lost its first Big Ten contest of Dhuge games, Wisconsin sistent,” UW head coach Bob- the season to Penn State on Sunday has struggled with consistent while Illinois, which had not won scoring this season. do but we’re working on it. I a conference game yet this season, While junior Jacki Gulczyn- thinkbie Kelsey we’ve said. got “We to definitelyget them edged Northwestern on Jan. 15. ski scored a season-high 23 playing well at the same time.” Wisconsin needs only one more Big points vs. Indiana and junior UW is 0-5 with two players Ten victory to equal last season’s con- Michala Johnson tallied a ca- in double digits, 5-3 with three ference win total. UW was 3-13 in Big reer-best 32 points at North- players over 10 points, and Ten play last season, losing its first western, seniors Morgan Paige 4-0 with four or more players five games. and Taylor Wurtz have strug-

50 // VARSITY January 23, 2014 scoring in double figures.

INSIDE MEN’S HOCKEY BY PAUL CAPOBIANCO @BADGERMHOCKEY

SCHEDULE (13-6-1, 4-2-0-0) White Out LAST TIME OUT Fans should wear their best Badger white to Jan. 10 #8/9 Michigan W, 5-2 Jan. 11 #8/9 Michigan W, 3-1 Saturday’s game against Ohio State COMING UP Friday Ohio State 8 p.m. ith the Badger hock- OH, GIVE ME A HOME... Saturday Ohio State 7 p.m. ey team excited ● There’s no place like home Jan. 31 Michigan 5:30 p.m. Wabout the recent for the Badgers, and that Feb. 1 Michigan 5:30 p.m. large crowd for its Jan. 11 game has proven especially true against Michigan (a 3-1 vic- for senior forward Jefferson SHUCHUK, ROHLIK REUNITED Dahl, who had two points ● When Ohio State and Wisconsin fa- the team is looking to up the heading into UW’s current ceoff against each other this weekend, antetory thatwith finished a “White off aOut” sweep), for home stand. Through 10 a pair of former teammates will man its game this Saturday against games of the home stand, opposing benches at the Kohl Center. Ohio State. The Buckeyes last Dahl has three goals and On the Wisconsin bench will stand visited Madison in 1969. Ev- 14 points, the most for any Gary Shuchuk, he of the 41 goals to lead eryone is encouraged to wear Badger during the stretch. the Badgers to the 1990 NCAA cham- white at the game. Those at- Those 14 points in the last pionship. On the Ohio State bench will tending will be handed a white 10 games would match stand Steve Rohlik, who officially led pom pom to help things along. Dahl’s career high scor- the Badgers to the 1990 NCAA cham- The game closes out a record- ing total he set as a junior pionship as the team captain. Add in long 12-game homestand for last season. All 16 of Dahl’s UW head coach Mike Eaves and assis- the hockey program. points this season have tant coach Matt Walsh and they’ll be come at the Kohl Center. four Badger NCAA champions direct- ing the action this weekend.

52 // VARSITY January 23, 2014

INSIDE WOMEN’S HOCKEY BY AJ HARRISON @BADGERWHOCKEY SCHEDULE (19-3-2, 15-3-2-1) LAST WEEK Jan. 17 at Bemidji State W, 6-0 Jan. 18 at Bemidji State W, 3-1 COMING UP Friday Minnesota Duluth 2 p.m. Saturday Minnesota Duluth 3 p.m.

- ment,” Rigsby said. “I’ve been lucky enoughbut it’s to also play definitely on a team a as team great achieve as this one throughout my career here as a Bad- ger. But it means quite a bit, though, to pass Vetter.” UW head coach Mark Johnson has been impressed with Rigsby’s play over the years. “Rigsby has been consistent, and when players have good habits and are able to do things for a long period of time, these are the things that fall into place,” John- son said. “I didn’t think anyone was going to touch Jessie just because of the record that she had and the way she performed over a long period of time, but hats off to Alex for getting an opportunity, prepar- 92 and counting: Rigsby ing herself, and making the most of it.” FILL THE BOWL IS COMING UP sets Wisconsin wins record ● With less than a month to go until the Rigsby breaks Jessie Vetter’s mark for career victories fourth Fill the Bowl game, tickets are going fast. General admission tickets are still ith her 92nd career played against boys during available for the Feb. 15 showdown win on Saturday, se- their high school days. between No. 2 Wisconsin and No. 1 Wnior goaltender Alex This year, Rigsby has been Minnesota. Fans can help break the Rigsby became the school’s passing Vetter in the school re- NCAA women’s hockey attendance re- winningest goaltender in pro- cord book, as Rigsby is now the cord set in 2012 by taking advantage gram history, passing two- school leader in wins, minutes of $1 tickets. Patrons can also help time Olympian Jessie Vetter on player and saves. The wins re- fight hunger at the game by donating the all-time list. cord is something that Rigsby non-perishable food items to benefit Many discuss Rigsby and is proud of, but she is thankful Second Harvest Food Bank. Vetter in the same sentence, for her teammates helping her Fans can check out the Wisconsin as both are Wisconsin na- achieve the mark. women’s hockey Facebook page for tives, sport curly hair and both “I think it’s quite an honor a daily countdown to the game.

54 // VARSITY January 23, 2014 SCHEDULE (19-3-2, 15-3-2-1) INSIDE WRESTLING BY ANNA POULTER-HENDRICKSON @BADGERWRESTLING SCHEDULE COMING UP Jan. 24 at Indiana 7 p.m. Jan. 26 at #16 Northwestern Noon Feb. 2 North Dakota State 1 p.m. Feb. 21 #10 Nebraska 7 p.m. Feb. 23 #2 Iowa 1 p.m.

nals as a staff. Our nickname was Staff- Infection, but we ended up losing by a pin. It’s a good time overall for all of the guys to get together. It is kind of a team bonding thing.” UW ventured off the mat over the weekend, enjoying a friendly game of slow pitch with the softball team. “I think you need to show the guys how to really train hard, but at the same time how to have fun,” Davis said. “I think you need a mixture of both because you can’t think about wrestling 24/7.” UPCOMING HOME DUALS ● The season is heating up for the Bad- gers and fans are encouraged to be a Bowling and slow pitch part of the action when the team hosts three home duals in February. give Badgers time to bond » Feb. 2 | 1 p.m. | North Dakota St. All pre-registered youth and high UW finds time for fun during grueling training school wrestlers receive free admis- sion. To register, email jscolaro@ath- W wrestling coach Bar- gers found themselves in the letics.wisc.edu or call 608-262-7453 ry Davis hasn’t been alley and on the diamond over Following the match, the team will U shy about the intensity break. also host an autograph session. of the Badgers’ training over “We had a bowling tourna- » Feb. 21 | 7 p.m. | #10 Nebraska winter break. The team put in ment,” said Davis. “Eight-team - bracket, four guys on a team. gers available while supplies last. in preparation for a grueling »Complimentary Feb. 23 | 1 p.m. take | #2 down Iowa foam fin upcomingextra time fine-tuningstretch with its hopes skills and seventh place. The guys This year’s seniors will be honored of gaining momentum heading hadWe playeda great fortime.” first, third, fifth prior to the start of the match. Fol- into championship season. Davis and the Badgers’ staff lowing the match, the team will host But don’t be fooled. Davis joined in on the fun. a brief autograph session around the likes to have fun, so the Bad- - mat.

56 // VARSITY January 23, 2014 “Actually, we made it to fi

INSIDE TRACK & FIELD BY AJ HARRISON @BADGER_TRACK SCHEDULE LAST WEEK Jan. 18 vs. Missouri (M) W, 86-61 Jan. 18 vs. Missouri (W) W, 80-72 COMING UP Friday Wis. Elite Invite 5 p.m. Saturday Wis. Elite Invite 12 p.m.

approach in the pole vault at the Bru- tus Hamilton Invitational, Cato spent months working his way back for Wis- consin, which he admitted was grueling. But Cato feels like now he is approaching his form from last year, when he was the runner-up in the heptathlon at the NCAA championships for the second-straight year. “I’m getting there,” Cato said. “I feel it slowly coming back. Every day is a step in the right direction. Every day and ev- ery practice I’m getting better and my coaches are telling me that that looks like the Cato from last year.” Cato is also excited about how the men’s squad is looking this year and be- lieves the Badgers can make a run at the Back for the Badgers: national indoor meet. Cato said. “Last year we got third. Every- Cato returns after injury one“We has definitely something have different a good and chance,” very All-American looks for strong senior season special to bring to the table. You can’t win a national title with only sprinters, or jumpers or throwers. We have a good fter nine months of re- A three-time Big Ten hep- mix of everyone.” covering and waiting to tathlon champion, Cato was Aget back on the track, thrilled to return to action for UW HOSTS THIRD HOME MEET senior Japheth Cato made a the Cardinal and White. ● After two home meets last weekend, “It felt pretty good,” Cato the Badgers will host the Wisconsin after rupturing his Achilles said. “I didn’t think I was quite Elite Invitational this weekend. Wis- tendonstatement last inApril his by first winning meet ready to do the things that I consin will face competitors from De- the high jump and pole vault did last weekend. It felt good, Paul, Indiana State, Northern Illinois, to propel Wisconsin to a dual as my teammates and coaches Marquette and Milwaukee. The discus meet win against Missouri last were behind me supporting takes place Friday at 5 p.m. in the Mc- Saturday at the Camp Randall me the whole way.” Clain Center, while field events start Memorial Sports Center. After his injury on a routine Saturday at noon in The Shell.

58 // VARSITY January 23, 2014 SCHEDULE THIS WEEK IN BADGER HISTORY

WATCH: PAULA WILKINS MIC’D UP WELCOME WILKINS JANUARY 25, 2007: Paula Wilkins was introduced as the fourth women’s soccer coach in Wisconsin history. In seven seasons behind the Badgers’ bench, Wilkins has accumulated a 68-52-19 record that includes three NCAA tournament appearances.

STREAKING START JANUARY 28, 2007: Men’s basketball defeated Iowa, 57-46, to win its modern-era school-record 17th straight game. UW went 67 days without losing a game. The Bad- gers’ 21-1 record was the best to start a season in school history. ALSO NATIONAL PRIDE JANUARY 27, 2009: Wisconsin women’s hockey coach Mark Johnson was named THIS coach of the 2010 United States Olympic women’s hockey team. WEEK BO KNOWS WINNING JANUARY 24, 2010: With a 79-71 overtime win against Penn State, Bo Ryan became the 18th coach with 100 Big Ten wins and tied Branch McCracken as the second- fastest coach to reach the century mark, doing so in 140 games. Only Bob Knight (131 { games) did it faster.

60 // VARSITY January 23, 2014