CONTENTS JANUARY 6, 2016 ■ VOLUME 6, ISSUE 21

FEATURE STORY DAVID STLUKA

WHAT COMES NEXT With the wind of 10 wins and a title at their back, the Badgers sail into the offseason looking to build on their success while staring down a strong schedule for 2016.

FEATURES 16 FOR ’16 IN [FOCUS] WHAT TO WATCH FOR The week's best photos

From a game at Lambeau to a new BEHIND THE DESK ICON SPORTSWIRE look with Under Armour to a host of Bowl plan worked perfectly aspiring Olympians, Andy Baggot breaks down what’s coming in 2016. THE VOICE A fond farewell to a friend

BY THE NUMBERS LUCAS AT LARGE Facts and figures on UW

ENJOYABLE JOURNEY WHAT TO WATCH Where to catch the Badgers encourages his players to

soak up all the experiences they can DAVID STLUKA ASK THE BADGERS along the way, and the Holiday Bowl Change a movie ending? is one they won’t soon forget.

BADGERING-SCROLL FOR MORE­ Ryan Wagner (Men’s Hockey) Wisconsin Athletic Communications Kellner Hall, 1440 Monroe St., Madison, WI 53711

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Brian Lucas Director of Athletic Communications

Julia Hujet Editor/Designer

Brian Mason Managing Editor

Mike Lucas Senior Writer

Andy Baggot Writer

Matt Lepay Columnist

Chris Hall, Jerry Mao Video Production

Amy Eager Advertising

Drew Pittner-Smith Distribution

Contributors Paul Capobianco, Tam Flarup, Kelli Grashel, A.J. Harrison, Brandon Harrison, Patrick Herb, Diane Nordstrom

Photography David Stluka, Neil Ament, Greg Anderson, Bob Campbell, Cal Sport Media, Icon Sportswire

Cover Photo: David Stluka

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© 2016 Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System. All rights reserved worldwide. LUCAS AT LARGE BY MIKE LUCAS ■ UWBADGERS.COM Chryst and his Badgers enjoyed the journey pon embarking on his fact, he has the Hastings poem so many other things to pass journey in the coaching in his of­ them by. Uprofession with the San fice. And he has shared it with a “Whatever it is, football, or a Antonio Riders of the World handful of his Wisconsin players. career,” Stave said, “don’t spend League of , “I like it,” he said, “because your whole time looking ahead to Paul Chryst was introduced to you have to keep reminding your­ where you’re trying to get. Obvi­ Robert J. Hastings. self to enjoy the journey.” ously, you want to have goals that In the early ’90s, Mike Riley At the team banquet in Decem­ you’re reaching for. gave Chryst his first full-time job ber, each of the seniors recited “But don’t look past the mo­ in the business after two years as a line from the poem during a ments it takes for you to get a West Virginia grad assistant. He video tribute to their class. It there. I think that’s something also gave him a copy of a poem was not on the urging of Chryst, that he (Chryst) is big on. Live in crafted by Hastings called The either. He didn’t know anything the moment and take advantage Station. about it. of your opportunities right now.” Hastings’ station is a train sta­ “But it was pretty cool that was Stave certainly did that in his fi­ tion symbolizing a final destina­ the poem they used for the se­ nal collegiate start, a 23-21 victo­ tion for our travels. niors,” he said. “You really want ry over USC in the Holiday Bowl, “The true joy of life is the trip,” the kids to enjoy it … the steps making him the winningest quar­ Hastings wrote. “The station is … the journey.” terback in school history with a only a dream. It constantly out­ Senior 31-10 record. distances us. ‘Relish the moment felt the message applied to all After the game, Chryst posed is a good motto.’” walks of life. Especially when for a picture with Stave, the Most All these years later, Chryst is people get so obsessed with look­ Outstanding Offensive Player. still a subscriber to that motto. In ing at the finish line, they allow “One of the kids had the idea DAVID STLUKA

LUCAS AT LARGE PAGE 1 OF 3 LUCAS AT LARGE BY MIKE LUCAS ■ UWBADGERS.COM

to do it with Joel,” Chryst said. yet,” Chryst said. “I didn’t do it That cohesiveness was on dis­ “Those are neat moments.” on the flight home. But I’ll defi­ play in the victory over USC. So The Chryst kids ― Katy, JoJo nitely do it. You’ll do it a number was resolve of these players. and Danny ― posed with their of different ways, right?” “We’ve seen it during this bowl dad and Stave. When Chryst does reflect, there season,” Chryst said, “where you “It was actually pretty funny will turning points in the 10-3 probably couldn’t say the last that we took that picture,” Chryst season, right? game was indicative of the team said. “There can be,” he said. “Any­ or the season. But I did feel like Funny because, 11 years ago, time you go through a season, it was for us. Chryst and the kids posed for a there are probably significant “It was fun to be on the side­ picture with Oregon State quar­ markers along the way. I was lines and in the locker room. Ev­ terback Derek Anderson after he asked that by the TV people be­ erybody pitched in. That and the was named Most Outstanding fore the bowl. What was our turn­ Nebraska game were probably Offensive Player of the Insight ing point? two of our best team wins. That Bowl. Chryst was Riley’s offen­ (USC) truly felt like a team win.” sive coordinator with the Beavers Senior safety Michael Capu­ “OBVIOUSLY, YOU WANT TO HAVE when they knocked off Notre to presented the game ball to Dame, 38-21. Anderson outdu­ GOALS THAT YOU’RE REACHING Chryst in the Qualcomm Stadium eled Brady Quinn, whose favor­ FOR.” STAVE SAID. “BUT DON’T locker room. ite target was Jeff LOOK PAST THE MOMENTS IT “I didn’t earn it,” Chryst said. Samardzija. TAKES FOR YOU TO GET THERE. “I don’t know if coaches should “The kids are a little taller LIVE IN THE MOMENT AND TAKE ever get one. I didn’t make a play. But it does mean a lot now,” observed Chryst, whose ADVANTAGE OF YOUR OPPORTU­ wife Robin took the photo in when it comes from them ― the 2004. She was talking with NITIES RIGHT NOW.” ones from the players mean the friends when the Stave picture most.” was taken last Wednesday in San “I didn’t think there was one All of the seniors will get a Diego. point or one play. The overall game ball, he pointed out. “It’s interesting when you finish defining point was that no mat­ “If your seniors can play their a season,” Chryst said. “To be ter what we put in front of this best football their senior year, able to win and celebrate it with group, they kind of did it together you’ve got a chance (to be suc­ the players ― and when your and kept going. cessful),” Chryst said. “That’s own family is a part of it ― that’s “Whether it was the (coaching) what our seniors gave us this probably as good as it gets for transition, whether it was the in­ year.” me. juries or a loss, they didn’t flinch Stave punctuated his career “You’re with the two groups and embraced it and kept going. with an exclamation point against that you spend all of your time I don’t think I’m blind to this, but Southern Cal. with.” the team never split (apart). “The players were really excit­ You’re with the two groups, “And this is a year where we ed for him,” Chryst said. “That’s he could have added, that you had some games that could have what he always had, their re­ shared the season-long journey caused a split (between the of­ spect. And that’s all Joel wanted with. fense and defense). So the defin­ to be ― the best quarterback for “I haven’t had time to catch ing moment was more of a defin­ that group and they recognized my breath to do much reflecting ing characteristic of this team.” that.”

LUCAS AT LARGE PAGE 2 OF 3 LUCAS AT LARGE BY MIKE LUCAS ■ UWBADGERS.COM DAVID STLUKA

How does Stave’s skill set seniors. tionship with and translate to the NFL? Chryst “I vividly remember watching Tanner McEvoy. coached in the league for three Mike’s tape over and over,” he “Just getting to know Joe was years. said. “And I remember that he fun, it was fresh,” he said. “I like “He’s got talent and they (the wasn’t someone the defensive and respect who he is and how scouts) see that when they come staff wanted right away. he goes about his business. He through here,” said Chryst. “He’s “Yet, the more you got to know loves playing and he’s unselfish. got arm strength, he’s got a quick about him, you realized, ‘This is He would do anything for the release and he can make a lot of a guy who makes your team bet­ team. different throws. ter.’ And that’s what he did this “Mac (McEvoy) gave us a ton of “Joel has the knowledge base year. It culminated a heckuva stuff offensively and defensively ― football-wise and with his career. and that’s not easy to do. It’s hard mental toughness ― to be able to “I also remember seeing Alex enough to impact one side of the continue to grow and compete. when he first came up to the ball. To be able to do both? Heck, “I said it during the year and I football offices (as a walk-on). he did it right up until the end. believed it then and I still believe There are a lot of guys that “I enjoyed getting to know him, it now ― I still think that he’s a dream of doing what he did. He I enjoyed being around him. good quarterback who can get was an in-state kid who bet on That’s what this group of players better. I hope he gets into a good himself. was all about. They were fun to spot. It’s about fit.” “Austin is a heckuva worker be around and they loved play­ Chryst recruited Stave before and tough. He’s all the things ing.” he left for Pitt, so he had some that you want your players to be. They provided Chryst with an­ history with him. Like he did with I hated seeing him get hurt. But I other snapshot to cherish on his Caputo, wide receiver Alex Er­ give him credit for how he came journey. ickson, tight end Austin Traylor back and played.” The station will come soon and some of the other fifth-year Chryst had no previous rela­ enough. ■

LUCAS AT LARGE PAGE 3 OF 3 BEHIND THE DESK BY ■ UW DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS Holiday Bowl plan worked to perfection oing into the Holiday Bowl, sacks. I know his dad (a former when you’ve been as good as we it was probably the health­ Notre Dame player) and the whole have been on defense. Giest our football team had family and they’re good people. Dave is a good coach and we been. Just the fact that we had I was very happy for Joel Stave. wanted to keep him. We were an offensive line that had prac­ With all the criticism that he has able to offer some things but ticed together for over a month taken, he was named the MVP weren’t prepared to double his was something that we hadn’t on offense. How about that? To salary. I don’t think it’s good busi­ had all year. top it off, he’s the winningest ness. Where do you stop? I thought Paul Chryst and his quarterback in Wisconsin history. Before the bowl, I gave Paul a staff really had a good plan for I’ve had several pro scouts talk pool of money to divide however Southern Cal. They got enough to me about Joel. They think he he chose to give all of his assis­ hitting in early and all they had can play at the next level. He’s tants another bump. We’ve been to do was practice the game plan smart, he’s got a good arm. I’ve more than fair. when they got to San Diego. seen a lot of guys in the NFL who There are a number of good The day the kids showed that don’t play as well as he does. defensive coaches out there that they were tired, they bounced When people look back on I know Paul wants to talk to. And back and responded the next this season, they need to realize I’ll give him enough leeway with day. Paul was able to give them a that 10 wins are hard to come salary and incentives to go out day off, which really helped them by. And it very easily could have and hire a good coach. stay fresh for the game. been 12 wins. With all the adver­ ■ ■ ■ ■ Leading up to the bowl, there sity that we had ― with a walk-on There have been a few sur­ were enough things for the play­ and all the mixing prises during the bowl season. ers to do ― not an overabun­ and matching and youth on the I thought Oklahoma would be dance ― where they could ex­ offensive line ― I thought it was a tough to beat, but Clemson perience San Diego. There was very good season. showed why they were ranked as enough to do in their free time. Throughout the year, Paul high as they were. I know the bowl committee was showed that he wants to do all The separation between Michi­ really excited about the matchup. the things that a head coach gan State and Alabama also sur­ They kept saying when you have needs to do. He wants to meet prised me. I thought it would be two teams with the history of USC people and sell the program, and more competitive ― same with and Wisconsin, you have a Rose he’s a hard-working recruiter. Iowa and Stanford. Bowl vibe. There was a lot of siz­ He didn’t have to do any of But we had Clemson and Ala­ zle to the game. those things as an assistant. bama ranked 1-2 in the College I really liked the way that we But he knows the importance of Football Playoff rankings and played. Our defense came up doing them now that it’s his pro­ they’ve done everything I thought with some big plays when we gram. I couldn’t be happier with that they could do. Both have needed to ice the game. Our how he’s handled things. excellent teams. Both are well- offense found some answers to It really didn’t surprise us to coached. Both are solid on both what they were doing defensively. lose Dave Aranda. His name sides of the ball. Both have play- I haven’t seen anything like came up for a couple jobs last makers and no real weaknesses. what Jack Cichy did on one pos­ year and he interviewed with It should be a good champion­ session with three consecutive some people. That will happen ship game. ■

BEHIND THE DESK PAGE 1 OF 1 THE VOICE BY MATT LEPAY ■ VOICE OF THE BADGERS Bidding fond farewell to the ‘Old Professor’ nder normal circumstanc­ board to demonstrate to viewers should have been the one adapt­ es, this week’s blog would what is happening on the floor. ing to his style, but Ron went out Ube about a thrilling Holi­ Keep in mind this is the age of his way to make me feel com­ day Bowl victory and/or the tran­ before all the bells and whistles fortable, and he let me do my sition of the Badgers we see in television today. Those thing. program. Both stories hold plenty who watched and listened to From the first game we worked of interest, and rightfully so. Ex­ Ron’s work appreciated what he together (vs. Oregon at the citing bowl games are the excep­ brought to the table. UW Field House), I knew I had tion to the rule this season, and I didn’t know Ron during his lucked out. Before moving to watching Greg Gard and his staff years with the Bucks, but soon Madison, I had called a ton of work with the basketball team after arriving in Wisconsin more high school games in Ohio. I had has made for a fascinating last than 27 years ago, people would a few color analysts, and let’s just couple of weeks. tell me about him. Beginning in say some were better than oth­ However, on my way to San November of 1988, I had the ers. With Ron, I knew I had trad­ Diego last week I learned of the privilege of getting to know him. ed up. passing of man named Ron For a nervous dude in his first Blomberg, who died a few weeks HE TOOK A KNOW-NOTHING college season, Ron was the ago at age 87. Some of you may calming old pro. He also had ROOKIE COLLEGE HOOPS be familiar with him, and what he plenty of perspective on the Bad­ will always mean to basketball in ANNOUNCER UNDER HIS gers. He was around for the tran­ these parts. I would understand WING. THE FACT IS, RON sition from Bill Cofield to Steve if others, especially the younger FORGOT MORE ABOUT THE Yoder. Together, we watched crowd, are not. Allow me a few GAME THAN I WILL EVER another change from Yoder to minutes to enlighten you. KNOW. I SHOULD HAVE BEEN Stu Jackson. Ron’s knowledge of Ron was one of this state’s top THE ONE ADAPTING TO HIS Wisconsin basketball history was high school coaches, with stops something I leaned on heavily. at Peshtigo, Brookfield Central STYLE, BUT RON WENT OUT OF Better yet, he was always willing and Wayland Academy. He is a HIS WAY TO MAKE ME FEEL to share what he learned through member of the Wisconsin Bas­ COMFORTABLE. the years. Once a teacher, always ketball Coaches Association Hall a teacher. of Fame. Ron Blomberg was my first I will always remember our A “veteran” Milwaukee Bucks partner on Wisconsin basketball road trips. In those days, more fan will remember Ron as the radio broadcasts. We ended up often than not, we flew separate­ “Old Professor,” so named by working together for six years. It ly from the team. Among oth­ legendary announcer Eddie Dou­ was a blast. er things, that often meant we cette. The duo made for a popu­ He took a know-nothing rookie spent a second night in a Big Ten lar team, and fans enjoyed how college hoops announcer under city before flying home the next Ron explained the game. As de­ his wing. The fact is, Ron forgot morning. After games, I loved to tailed in a story from last week’s more about the game than I will pick his brain about a sport he Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, if ever know. But the beauty of the dearly loved, and about his days Ron was working on a TV broad­ Old Professor was he never talk­ with the Bucks. cast, he would use a magnetic ed down to you. By all rights, I Usually those chats took place

THE VOICE PAGE 1 OF 2 THE VOICE BY MATT LEPAY ■ VOICE OF THE BADGERS

in the hotel lounge over a beer on a cocktail napkin. An evening ple after our jobs ― or our lives (for me) and a Perfect Rob Roy with Ron would be both a clinic in general ― take us in different (for him). Ron would tell me and an enjoyable extended story- directions. Once in a great while, about Oscar Robertson, Kareem time. I would see Ron at the Bradley Abdul-Jabbar, or any number of I cherish those memories. Center for a Wisconsin-Marquette other star players or coaches of One of my many faults is a game or perhaps some other the time. He would draw up plays failure to keep in touch with peo­ event. There would be the occa­ sional phone call or a note, but I wish I would have done a better job of keeping in touch.

AFTER GAMES, I LOVED TO PICK HIS BRAIN ABOUT A SPORT HE DEARLY LOVED, AND ABOUT HIS DAYS WITH THE BUCKS. AN EVENING WITH RON WOULD BE BOTH A CLINIC AND AN ENJOYABLE EXTENDED STORYTIME.

That’s on me, and I wish I could turn back the clock. But we know life does not work that way. Instead, there is this column. Hopefully you now have at least some idea about a man who was one this state’s great basketball ambassadors. We enjoyed a heck of a run. In our final year together, we witnessed the Badgers’ 1994 NCAA Tourna­ ment appearance, the program’s first since 1947. I never really had the taste for a Perfect Rob Roy, but on this occasion it makes sense to give it another try. So I raise a glass to the Old Professor. Bless you sir, and thank you. For your wisdom. For your friendship. May you rest in peace my friend. ■

THE VOICE PAGE 2 OF 2 ASK THE BADGERS

IF YOU COULD CHANGE THE ENDING OF ANY MOVIE, WHAT WOULD? YOU CHANGE? WALT MIDDLETON DAVID STLUKA

JOHNNY JIMENEZ CHARLIE FOSS TESSA CICHY SOJOURN SHELTON Sophomore ■ Wrestling Senior ■ Men’s Track & Field Senior ■ Women’s Basketball Junior ■ Football

“If I were to change “I wouldn’t neces­ “I would change the “It’s not an ending the ending of a sarily change the ending to Titanic but I’d change the movie it would be ending of The Dark because they both part of The Lion Cast Away. Wilson Knight Rises, per definitely could have King when Mu­ arrives home safely se, but I think it fit on that piece of fasa dies. I think with Tom Hanks.” would be cool to driftwood if Rose everybody, at some have a scene where wasn’t so selfish.” point, saw that mov­ Batman and Robin ie growing up and met up. I realize that scene is pretty that the series is, tough on you when as of now, not going you’re a kid.” to continue but if they decide to they would have had a great setup with Batman and Robin.” BADGERING GREG ANDERSON RYAN WAGNER

Sophomore forward Ryan Wagner shares second place on the Badgers ALL ABOUT RYAN in scoring with 13 points, one year after posting five points for his en­ Year: Sophomore tire freshman season. A native of Park Ridge, Illinois, Wagner tied the Position: Forward school record as a rookie for the fastest goal to start a game when he Height / Weight: 5-8 / 185 lit the lamp just nine seconds into a clash with Minnesota last Jan. 31. Hometown: Park Ridge, Ill. This season, Wagner sits in a second-place tie among all Big Ten skaters through four league games with seven points. His four power-play goals QUICK Qs WITH RYAN in all games also ties him for second in the league. Childhood hero? What three words would you use to describe yourself? “The Hulk.” “Fun, hard-working, and tough.” Hidden talent? “I can ride a unicycle.” How would you characterize yourself as a player? “I feel like I’m a hard-working player. I’m a small guy, but I Reality show you could win? don’t look at myself as a small guy. I like to play a big role and “American Ninja Warrior.” SCROLL throw the body around and stuff like that. Kind of messing with What other sport would you want to other guys, throwing them off their game and just having fun play at UW? out there.” “Soccer.”

Who is your role model in hockey? Super power you’d want? “To freeze time.” “That would be my older cousin Austin Farley, who plays at Minnesota Duluth right now. He’s two years older than me, so Go-to meal in the kitchen? we’ve always been battling against each other, seeing who’s “Chicken and pasta.” better. He was my role model growing up.”

What’s something most people don’t know about you? “My mom’s one of 16 kids, so I have 57 cousins on her side. It’s a lot of fun getting together. We rent out a gym for Christ- mas so we can all fit. It’s a good time.”

What are the family get-togethers like on your mom’s side? “When we get the gym going we play mini sticks and stuff in there. It’s just all fun and games. They’re definitely really crazy, especially when we get basketball games going. It’s fun, but everyone wants to win, so it gets a little physical at times. But it’s all a good time, and I enjoy it.”

If you had to survive on an island, which teammates would you take with? “That’s a tough question. I’d probably have to say Seamus Malone and Jake Linhart. Jake’s quiet, so I wouldn’t get an- noyed or anything if I had to deal with him for awhile. (Malone) likes to have some fun, so there’s that side. And I could take both of them on if need be.”

What are your hobbies outside of hockey? “I’m probably the best ping pong player on the team. Also, when we play soccer before games; I grew up playing soccer and I love that before games. It just gets you focused.”

What has been your favorite memory so far at Wisconsin? “Probably when we beat North Dakota in their home barn. It was just a fun place to play and they had a great crowd and a great atmosphere, and it was great to get that win. When the whistle stops and the play stops, you can kind of hear them. I actually got a penalty and all the student section is right around there, so they jaw at you for the whole two minutes.” ■ DAVID STLUKA After a quality bowl win, the Badgers will carry momentum (and plenty of experienced personnel) from their recently-completed 10-win campaign into the 2016 season. But with a rugged schedule ahead and no shortage of questions to answer ― Who takes over for Joel Stave? How does the secondary come together? Can the offensive line make more strides? Who will lead the defensive coaching staff? ― there’s a lot to learn between now and kickoff at Lambeau Field on Sept. 3. DAVID STLUKA

Michael Caputo & Sojourn Shelton

s they shared laughs for the final time as a sec­ Toward the end of the season, Shelton began tak­ ondary, Sojourn Shelton realized how much ing mental notes whenever he was around Caputo, AMichael Caputo, Darius Hillary and Tanner knowing that’s how Caputo grew; by filing away in­ McEvoy had meant to his growth the last three sea­ formation from Dez Southward and others. sons. “I’ve been watching how Mike handles the meet­ “When I came in here as a little pup, they showed ings and stuff like that ― when we’re on our own and me the way,” said Shelton, a junior cornerback from we’re not with the coaches,” said Shelton, who also Fort Lauderdale, Florida. “And, now, they’re passing studied his habits watching film. the torch to me. “Since we’ve all been here together, we’ve been a “I feel it’s my responsibility to lead those guys (de­ really good secondary. And we want to keep improv­ fensive backs) who are coming back in the winter ing. We have the guys who can do it. And we have and in the spring ― in getting them ready for next the coaches do it. So why not?” year. It will be one of the leading questions going into the “I looked up to those guys. 7 (Caputo) and 5 (Hil­ 2016 season ― along with identifying Joel Stave’s lary) and 3 (McEvoy) have prepared me to take on replacement ― since the secondary will be the posi­ this role, how to lead. I was just happy see all the tion group hardest hit by graduation. smiles on their faces.” How will the Badgers replace Caputo, Hillary and Shelton had plenty to smile about last Wednesday McEvoy? night. His interception was one of the key defensive “Mike meant so much to this team, Tanner was so plays in the final minutes of Wisconsin’s 23-21 win unique and Darius played a ton of football,” said UW over USC in the Holiday Bowl. head coach Paul Chryst. “But that’s kind of the fun “That’s who I really did it for,” he said of Capu­ of this all (coaching). to, Hillary and McEvoy, all fifth-year seniors. “Those “Other guys are going to have to step into posi­ guys are closest to me. We put in so much work tions; they’ll have to step into those roles. That group together.” needs to take another step.”

ONWARD ... UPWARD?: WHAT'S NEXT FOR THE BADGERS PAGE 2 OF 8 It’s never easy when you lose quality players. Or ■ ■ ■ ■ coaches. The Badgers will have a new defensive efensively, the Badgers will be missing some coordinator with Dave Aranda leaving for LSU after difference-making X’s. But many pieces re­ three UW seasons. Dturn. “First of all,” Chryst said, “I’m appreciative of being “Next year is going to be really exciting,” Shelton able to work with Dave for a year. I enjoyed getting said. “Especially with the schedule we face.” to know him and his approach. Part of the beauty of Nobody will have to wait long to renew acquain­ Dave is that he’s unlike anyone else.” tances with Aranda. Wisconsin will open the season So it would be impractical to suggest that the Bad­ against LSU at Lambeau Field. Even more daunting gers are looking for another Aranda to coordinate will be the meat of the Big Ten schedule. the defense. But Chryst is planning on sticking with Following back-to-back trips to Michigan State and the 3-4 scheme. Michigan ― and a bye ― the Badgers will draw Ohio “For Wisconsin, it fits us in a lot of ways― who we State at home, Iowa on the road, Nebraska at home, can recruit and where,” Chryst said. “At the end of and Northwestern on the road. the day, though, you have to be able to adjust to your “We’re giving Badger fans what they want; they personnel.” wanted a tough Big Ten schedule and they’ve Chryst knows what he wants out of a coordinator, got one,” said outside linebacker Vince Biegel. “I starting with a “guy who can help bring together the wouldn’t want to have it any other way.” defense so we can get the most out of everyone, Shelton, 37 starts, and Biegel, 28 starts, will be coaches and players.” the most experienced leaders on defense. Together is the operative word for Chryst. Together “We have to sharpen our blade and build that as in unity. Together as an intangible. chemistry,” Shelton said of the secondary. “It’s a “Together,” he said, “is when you have good de­ fenses.” Chryst will cover the standard bases with his hire. “There’s a component of knowledge and thorough­ “WE’RE GIVING BADGER FANS WHAT THEY WANT; ness,” he said. “The coaching skills, communication THEY WANTED A TOUGH BIG TEN SCHEDULE AND and how you work with people are as important as THEY’VE GOT ONE,” “ SAID BIEGEL. “I WOULDN’T drawing up the X’s and O’s.” WANT TO HAVE IT ANY OTHER WAY.” DAVID STLUKA

ONWARD ... UPWARD?: WHAT'S NEXT FOR THE BADGERS PAGE 3 OF 8 DAVID STLUKA matter of putting the work in, and we can make this thing special.” Natrell Jamerson and Derrick Tindal shared reps at nickel back. Both may get a shot at replacing Hil­ lary. Also in the mix may be Lubern Figaro and Titus Booker, who redshirted as a true freshman. When Caputo was injured in the Alabama opener, D’Cota Dixon got his baptism at safety. Leo Musso, Joe Ferguson and Arrington Farrar are candidates for more playing time. Shelton is ready to be the catalyst of this group. Natrell Jamerson “It doesn’t happen to everyone and it happens at

NEIL AMENT different times to guys,” Chryst said. “But once they develop genuine confidence, it changes their expe­ rience. “If Sojourn is not there yet, he’s close where he truly has genuine confidence in himself. I thought Daronte (Jones, the UW secondary coach) did a nice job with him. “Sojourn benefited from having a really good room with Mike, Tanner and Darius. They got tested (by USC) and they were up for it and looked like they enjoyed the challenge.” Joe Ferguson While the new starters at cornerback and safety

DAVID STLUKA are breaking in ― tackling LSU’s Leonard Fournette will be the ultimate challenge ― a battle-tested front seven should take some of the heat off them. Joe Schobert, a first-team All-American, was a special player. Even without Schobert, the Badgers have some intriguing options at outside and inside linebacker. Jack Cichy has played both. “Inside or outside, I’ll play wherever they want me to play,” said Cichy, who has two more years of eligi­ bility. “And I’ll try to contribute the best I can to help my team win. Joe has taught me a lot.” Derrick Tindal Despite playing in just the second half against

DAVID STLUKA Southern Cal, Cichy led the Badgers with nine tack­ les, including quarterback sacks on three consecu­ tive snaps. “We talk all the time, ‘When the opportunity pres­ ents itself, can you seize it?’ And he did,” Chryst said. “He loves playing and I think guys like playing with him. He had a heckuva season.” Five starters return at four linebacker spots: Bie­ gel, Cichy, T.J. Edwards, Chris Orr and Leon Jacobs, who was lost for most of the season with an injury. Jacobs can play inside or outside, too. Leo Musso Another T.J. ― T.J. Watt ― came on strong in the

ONWARD ... UPWARD?: WHAT'S NEXT FOR THE BADGERS PAGE 4 OF 8 nickel and dime packages. ■ ■ ■ ■ Mounting a stronger pass rush is defensive end he offseason, especially spring practice, will Chikwe Obasih’s goal. factor into the quarterback competition be­ “We’ll get to the QB a little bit more,” promised Ttween Bart Houston, who will be a fifth-year Obasih, a redshirt sophomore. “You saw how the senior, and , who redshirted as a D-line got tremendously better. All of us are coming freshman. back, though we’re going to miss Jake Keefer.” “I love the way Bart competes,” Chryst said. “He Keefer, a backup, was the only senior. Obasih, Ar­ took advantage of this season by learning how to thur Goldberg, Conor Sheehy, Alec James and Olive prepare. He got to play and trusted his preparation.” Sagapolu will make up the defensive line nucleus for Houston completed 22 of 33 passes for 232 yards assistant coach Inoke Breckterfield. in UW’s win over Illinois, taking over after Stave was “Fundamentals are a key injured. and Coach Nokes (Breck­ “It gave me confidence,” terfield) came in and im­ Houston said. “It just goes plemented them,” said “IT GIVES US A GOOD SENSE OF CONFIDENCE, NOT to show that I can do it.” Obasih. “I think the D-line OVERCONFIDENCE WHATSOEVER,”“ CICHY SAID. Houston and Hornibrook, is willing and ready to jump “THERE’S NOTHING LIKE A NICE BOWL WIN. IT’S a lefty, both tried to learn into that (leadership) role.” GOING TO MOTIVATE US IN WINTER CONDITIONING.” everything that they could Chryst feels the same from Stave. way. “Those guys are a little bit “This group,” he said of the D-line, “will bene­ different,” Chryst said. “But both of them have talent fit from another year in the weight room with Ross and the desire to be as good as they can. Those are (Kolodziej, the football strength coach). And this still good starting points. a young group.” “I think we’ve got two guys who are good quarter­ The Badgers held USC to just 65 rushing yards in backs. My job is to help them be game-ready. And the Holiday Bowl. I’m not going to worry about who’s starting and who’s “It gives us a good sense of confidence, not over­ not. confidence whatsoever,” Cichy said. “There’s noth­ “Both love competing. Both like this team and they ing like a nice bowl win. It’s going to motivate us in want to be contributors. I’m going to get them ready winter conditioning.” to play and we’ll let the season determine the starter.

Bart Houston Alex Hornibrook

“I think we’ve got two guys who are good . My job is to help them be game-ready,” Chryst said. “I’m going to get them ready to play and we’ll let the season determine the starter.”

ONWARD ... UPWARD?: WHAT'S NEXT FOR THE BADGERS PAGE 5 OF 8 DAVID STLUKA

Rob Wheelwright

I’m excited to work with both.” “I thought Taiwan made some strides. Now, he’s Whoever is the quarterback, he should have the got to take that next big step.” luxury of depth at tailback with , Dare That also holds true for the wide receivers, notably Ogunbowale, Taiwan Deal and Alec Ingold, who may Rob Wheelwright and Jazz Peavy. Especially in the be better suited physically for fullback. absence of Alex Erickson, who had the second-best “It was obviously a frustrating year for Corey in a season in school history with 77 catches. number of different ways,” Chryst said. “Some of After missing four games with a leg injury, Wheel- it was out of his control. It wright came back for the doesn’t mean this past year bowl and responded with an can’t be a great learning ex­ WHEELWRIGHT ON THE RECEIVING CORPS: Odell Beckham-esque stab perience for him.” “EACH AND EVERY YEAR, WE’VE ALWAYS BEEN (one-handed) on Wisconsin’s Clement sees the bowl win THE QUESTION MARK.“ THIS YEAR, WE’VE DONE first scoring drive against USC. as a potential springboard. “Each and every year, A LOT TO SHOW PEOPLE WE’RE ABLE TO MAKE “It’s not like it’s going to we’ve always been the ques­ give us an advantage for PLAYS WHEN GIVEN OPPORTUNITIES.” tion mark,” Wheelwright said LSU,” he said. “But we have of the receiving corps. “This something to look back at and say, ‘This is what we year, we’ve done a lot to show people we’re able to can be if we put our minds to it.’” make plays when given opportunities.” Chryst felt like Ogunbowale was a model of unself­ Wide receivers coach Ted Gilmore hasn’t given up ishness. on two unproven sophomores, George Rushing, who “Dare was willing to do anything for the group,” he was in the rotation, and Krenwick Sanders, who was said. “His role changed in an instant and he was a on the scout team. guy who had fun playing. “George works as hard as anybody,” Gilmore said.

ONWARD ... UPWARD?: WHAT'S NEXT FOR THE BADGERS PAGE 6 OF 8 “He’s anxious this spring to prove that he’s ready to DAVID STLUKA play and it’s my job to get him there. “Krenwick has some of the most competitive hands on the team. We’ve got to get him to play fast. What I mean by that, I want him to be a little more hungry and a little more aggressive.” Because of injuries, the Badgers were rarely at full strength at tight end. With Austin Traylor’s depar­ ture, Troy Fumagalli and Eric Steffes will do most of the heavy lifting next season. “Foom (Fumagalli) is a good player right now, but I George Rushing think he can be really good,” Chryst said. “This year, he understood what it means to be an every-down DAVID STLUKA guy. That’s not always an easy transition. “Some of the things where he can get better are controllable, like another year in the weight room gaining strength and a better understanding of de­ fenses. “Foom grew a lot this year. We’re not a deep re­ ceiving corps and he needs to be a big part of the throw game and I also think he can get better in the run game.” Chryst acknowledged the inevitable “growing pains” associated with starting as many as four red- Michael Deiter shirt freshmen on the offensive line, which the Bad­ DAVID STLUKA gers did against Minnesota and Southern Cal. “We’ve got to get better,” he said, “and I’m opti­ mistic that we can.” The Badgers lose only one senior, left tackle Tyler Marz, who started 40 games. “I appreciated what Tyler did,” Chryst said, “and what Dan did before he got hurt.” Center Dan Voltz, a 27-game starter, blew out his ACL in late October. “I should be full-go by summer conditioning,” said Voltz, who will sit out the spring. “So I’ll be with the Beau Benzschawel

team for June and July workouts.” DAVID STLUKA Flexibility was an O-line theme. Michael Deiter moved from left guard to center after Voltz was side­ lined. Beau Benzschawel shifted from right tackle to right guard after Walker Williams went out. “It doesn’t really matter where I play,” said Benzschawel, sounding like Cichy. “I don’t really care either way (guard or tackle) as long as I’m on the field.” The other returning starters are guard Micah Ka­ poi and tackle Jacob Maxwell. “They probably played one of their better games Eric Steffes

ONWARD ... UPWARD?: WHAT'S NEXT FOR THE BADGERS PAGE 7 OF 8 against a good (USC) front,” Chryst said of the O-line. unique approach to everything. “It’s what they do with their experiences that will de­ “He makes you think about things differently. It termine how good we can be.” has been a breath of fresh air because you can get There should be a healthy competition on the two- stuck in the rut of going through the same drills and deep this spring. Some different names that you’re thinking about football the same way.” bound to hear are Ryan Ramczyk, Jon Dietzen, Brett With Benzschawel at guard and Maxwell at tack­ Connors and Logan Schmidt, among others. le, the offensive line took a couple of giant steps at Voltz volunteered a personal measuring stick for the end of the season. The Badgers rushed for 257 the youngsters. yards against Minnesota and 177 against USC. “Just to see how much I’ve grown since I was a “Everybody played their hearts out, it’s super-big,” redshirt freshman ― I’m a tremendously different Benzschawel said of the bowl victory. “We played player than I was two years ago,” he said. “There’s two games with four redshirt freshmen starting and I no limit to what these guys can do.” think everyone grew up big time. Given how raw these linemen were, and the as­ “This game (USC) is going to give us a big amount signment of mixing and matching combinations from of confidence and will carry over into next year. Guys game-to-game, Voltz singled out offensive coordina­ will strive to get better every day. That’s really healthy tor Joe Rudolph, who tutors the O-line. and it’s only going to make us better. “He has brought a lot of positive energy,” Voltz “I think we’re on track to being one of those offen­ said. “He has really focused a lot on the mental side sive lines that everybody talks about here.” of the game as far as creating a mindset. It goes back to what Chryst was saying ― cause “The way he approaches techniques and other as­ and effect ― when an opportunity presents itself. pects of the O-line are different than coaches I’ve Can they seize it? If they do on the O-line, it could be had in the past. He played here and he just brings a a meaningful starting point for 2016. DAVID STLUKA

ONWARD ... UPWARD?: WHAT'S NEXT FOR THE BADGERS PAGE 8 OF 8 DAVID STLUKA

Top 10: Best of the Badgers in bowl games From to Jack Cichy, a look at UW’s most remarkable postseason performances BY ANDY BAGGOT ■ UWBADGERS.COM INSIDER

he outlandish performance by inside line­ 9. Terrell Fletcher turned in a clutch performance backer Jack Cichy vs. in in the 1995 Hall of Fame Bowl in Tampa, Florida. Tthe Holiday Bowl triggered a debate about the Fletcher helped salvage a wayward season by rush­ Wisconsin football team and its postseason history. ing for 241 yards on a career-high 39 carries and What are the top 10 individual performances in two TDs as the Badgers eased past Duke 34-20. those bowl games? A host of off-the-field controversies ushered in the The Badgers have played in 27 bowls since 1953 game, but Fletcher, a tailback that went on to a long and are 13-14 (.481) overall after starting out 0-4. career in the NFL, provided a diversion and was The latest, a 23-21 victory over USC in San Diego, named MVP. He gained 190 yards and converted California, featured an unusual, dominant defen­ both touchdowns in the second half as Wisconsin sive show by Cichy. He’s definitely in the top 10, but pulled away from a 13-all tie. where? Here’s one man’s list: 8. Ron Dayne closed out his distinguished Wiscon­ 10. The 2006 Capital One Bowl was supposed to sin career in style during a 17-9 victory over Stan­ be the swan song for Barry Alvarez as the Hall of ford in the 2000 . Fresh off winning the Fame Wisconsin coach. It wasn’t ― he returned as , he carried 34 times for 200 yards interim coach in the and the 2015 ― his school-record 14th 200-yard effort ― and ― but that doesn’t diminish what tail­ scored the go-ahead TD in the third period. As was back Brian Calhoun did in his final game with the his wont, Dayne wore down the opposition, rushing Badgers. He carried 30 times for 213 yards and a 22 times for 154 yards in the second half on the way TD to ignite a 24-10 victory over Auburn. In the pro­ to becoming the third player in Rose Bowl history cess, Calhoun became the second player in FBS to repeat as MVP. In the process, the Badgers be­ history to amass 1,500 yards rushing and 500 yards came the first Big Ten team in the modern era (since receiving in the same season. 1947) to win consecutive Rose Bowls.

TOP 10: BEST OF THE BADGERS IN BOWL GAMES PAGE 1 OF 3 7. Dayne was the headline performer for the Bad­ gers in the 1999 Rose Bowl victory over UCLA, but DAVID STLUKA cornerback Jamar Fletcher also showed up on the marquee. A two-time All-America pick who would win the Jim Thorpe Award as the best defensive back in the nation in 2000, Fletcher was credited with four pass breakups against the Bruins and pro­ vided the decisive points in the fourth quarter. He intercepted a Cade McNown pass and returned it 46 #10: Brian Calhoun - 2006 Capital One Bowl yards for a TD. He led the nation with seven picks that season and finished with a school-record 21 in three years. 6. Cichy spent the first half of the 2015 Holiday Bowl vs. USC in maddening isolation before being named its Most Valuable Defensive Player. He’d been cited for targeting in the regular-season finale against Min­ nesota, which meant he had to sit out the first half of the . That translated to 30 long minutes in the locker room before he could play. Cichy made #9: Terrell Fletcher - 1994 Hall of Fame Bowl up for lost time in spectacular fashion. He sacked USC quarterback Cody Kessler on three consecutive third-quarter plays ― a rare feat ― and later tipped a Kessler pass that was intercepted by cornerback Sojourn Shelton and all but sealed Wisconsin’s first victory over the Trojans in seven meetings. 5. The MVP in the 1994 Rose Bowl was tailback Brent Moss and deservedly so. He churned out 158 rushing yards on 36 carries and scored two touch­ #8: Ron Dayne - downs as the Badgers toppled UCLA 21-16. But the moment most everyone remembers is the 21-yard TD run by quarterback that provided the winning margin. He completed only 50 percent of his passes (10-for-20) and for fewer than 100 yards (96), but Bevell’s unlikely scramble finished off a milestone triumph. 4. Tailback finished off his re- cord-setting career in brilliant fashion, rushing 34 #7: Jamar Fletcher - 1999 Rose Bowl times for 251 yards and three touchdowns as the

Badgers outlasted Auburn 34-31 in overtime in the DAVID STLUKA in Tampa, Florida. Closing out a junior season in which he ran for 2,587 yards ― the second-most in FBS history ― and finished as the runner-up for the Heisman Trophy, Gordon scored on runs of 25, 53 and 6 yards and had two other scoots of 29 and 20 yards vs. a top-50 defense. 3. Wide receiver was a two-time All-American when he became entrenched in Rose #6: Jack Cichy - 2015 Holiday Bowl Bowl lore in 1963. He caught a then-school-record

TOP 10: BEST OF THE BADGERS IN BOWL GAMES PAGE 2 OF 3 11 passes for 163 yards and a touchdown, but the second-ranked Badgers fell to USC 42-37. Richter’s 19-yard TD reception capped a 23-point outburst in the fourth quarter as Wisconsin nearly came all the way back from a 42-14 deficit vs. the top-rated Trojans. 2. A year before he won the Heisman Trophy and became the all-time career rushing leader in Foot­ ball Bowl Subdivision history ― a record that still #5: Brent Moss - 1994 Rose Bowl stands ― Dayne claimed the first of his two Rose

DAVID STLUKA Bowl MVP awards in 1999. He rushed 27 times for 246 yards and four touchdowns ― bolts of 54, 7, 10 and 22 yards ― as the Badgers topped UCLA 38-31 and finished the season with their highest Associat­ ed Press Top 25 ranking in history (fourth). 1. Quarterback is a Rose Bowl legend for his performance against Southern Califor­ nia in 1963, one that earned him co-Most Valuable #4: Melvin Gordon - 2015 Outback Bowl Player honors despite a 42-37 loss. He completed 33 of 48 passes for 401 yards and two touchdowns and also ran for a TD vs. the top-ranked Trojans in Pasadena, California. The second-ranked Badgers trailed 42-14 early in the fourth quarter, but Vander Kelen engineered a 23-point comeback, completing 22 of 29 throws in the second half, and an instant classic was born. Honorable Mention: Wisconsin had just taken a #3: Pat Richter - 34-31 overtime lead vs. Auburn in the 2015 Out­ back Bowl when outside linebacker Joe Schobert put on a dazzling show. He stopped a running play for a 2-yard loss on first down, limited a pass receiv­ er to no gain on second down and tackled a receiver for a 1-yard loss on third down. The Tigers missed the ensuing field goal try. Honorable Mention: The 1982 Independence Bowl was not only the first bowl televised live by ESPN, it marked the first postseason triumph in Wisconsin #2: Ron Dayne - 1999 Rose Bowl football history. The 14-3 victory over Kansas State in Shreveport, Louisiana, ended a four-game bowl losing streak for the Badgers. Quarterback (two TD passes) and nose guard tackle Tim Krumrie (13 tackles) were the MVPs, but the defin­ ing play was turned in by wide receiver Tim Strac­ ka, who grew up in Madison. His only reception was an 87-yard scoring strike that gave Wisconsin the breathing room in needed in the fourth quar­ #1: Ron Vander Kelen - 1963 Rose Bowl ter as the Wildcats twice reached the red zone, but couldn’t score.

TOP 10: BEST OF THE BADGERS IN BOWL GAMES PAGE 3 OF 3 INSIDE MEN’S BASKETBALL BY PATRICK HERB ■ UW ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS DAVID STLUKA

Developing depth a priority for Badgers Interim coach Gard working to continue finding productivity from UW bench

he big question surrounding Wisconsin men’s basketball TAP TO VIEW SCHEDULE right now is: How are things different now that Greg Gard Thas taken over the head coaching reins from ? Largely, the product has remained the same ― Gard was a 23­ year disciple of Ryan after all. However, there are some intangible and tangible differences with the Badgers now that the student has become the teacher. That’s the way Ryan wanted it, to give Gard a chance to spread his wings. “Coach Ryan has texted me, pretty much before every game, and then he’s called me after each game,” Gard explained. “But

SCROLL he said from day one, ‘You know what you’re doing. Go do it. If you need anything, I’m always here; otherwise, I’m staying out of your way.’” Even in just three weeks, that latitude has given Gard an oppor­ tunity to put his stamp on the program. Intangibly, the commu­ nication amongst the team has changed a bit. Gard’s demeanor

toward officials might be slightly, well, toned down, and the way INTERNET CONNECTION REQUIRED TO VIEW TWEETS that Wisconsin operates offensively has been tweaked. But there have been a few measurable changes as well, begin- SOCIAL ning with the way Gard is using his reserves and managing the MEDIA: rotation. In the first 12 games of the season, Wisconsin’s starting five played 80.8 percent of the total minutes. Entering Tuesday’s game at Indiana, that number had dipped to 67.7 percent under Gard. That has resulted in increased minutes ― and production for the young foursome of Jordan Hill, Alex Illikainen, Khalil Iverson and Charlie Thomas. “The guys that are playing, practice pretty well,” Gard elaborat- ed. “I’ve always thought that with younger players, you let them play through a couple of mistakes. Not that you’re going to let them go hog wild with mistakes, but you let them gain a little con- fidence. They have to fail first sometimes in order to succeed.” INSIDE WOMEN’S BASKETBALL BY KELLI GRASHEL ■ UW ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS BOB CAMPBELL

Big Ten play bringing out Badgers’ best Wisconsin split first two conference games despite injuries and a short bench

onference season generally means one thing: Everyone TAP TO VIEW SCHEDULE turns up their play. No matter what conference, team or Cplayer, it’s a common trend for teams to turn up the dial against league foes. The Badgers are no exception to the trend. “Big Ten play is what we expected it to be. It’s tough,” UW head coach Bobbie Kelsey said. “You have all these different scenarios and you have to adjust every two or three days, because you have a game every two or three days, but it’s exciting to get ready for the next opponent.” Despite falling to No. 24 Michigan State, 77-67, on Sunday it

SCROLL is clear that Wisconsin has turned a new leaf with challenging conference rivals on the slate. The Badgers put up a tough fight with a worthy opponent, outscoring the Spartans 43-38 in the second half before seeing their two-game win streak snapped. UW was outrebounded by MSU in the game but outperformed the Spartans in nearly every other category, including turning the

ball over only 14 times. INTERNET CONNECTION REQUIRED TO VIEW TWEETS “Win or lose, you have a quick turnaround so you can’t cele­ brate too long or wallow in misery too long,” Kelsey said. SOCIAL The Badgers are averaging just 10.7 turnovers per game in MEDIA: their last three contests, going 2-1 in those games. Wisconsin tal- lied just nine giveaways against Northern Illinois on Dec. 16, nine against Indiana on Dec. 31, and 14 at Michigan State on Sunday. UW averages 16.3 turnovers per game on the season. Two key factors for the Badgers’ starting lineup have been the improved efforts from senior guard Dakota Whyte and sopho- more Cayla McMorris. Whyte has come out firing after missing one game due to illness, scoring in double figures in each of the last seven games and averaging 13.7 points per game over the streak. INSIDE MEN’S HOCKEY BY PAUL CAPOBIANCO ■ UW ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS GREG ANDERSON

Welcome to the Kohl Center After spending much of early season away, Badgers play 10 of next 12 on home ice

hen the 2015-16 Wisconsin men’s hockey schedule was TAP TO VIEW SCHEDULE released, all eyes were drawn to the coming seven-week Wstretch as perhaps the most pivotal to the season. With 10 of the next 12 games played at the Kohl Center, there is a chance for the Badgers over the next seven weeks to make a push and to grab hold of an upper-division position in the Big Ten. That’s also how UW head coach Mike Eaves sees it. “We have an opportunity to make hay here; we’re in our own barn, and this week here is huge because (we) get to practice in

SCROLL the Kohl Center all week. I think that will help us set ourselves up for playing at home a lot.” Wisconsin hockey fans have yet to see much of the 2015-16 Badgers, with just three home series completed, in addition to last week’s exhibition contest against Trinity Western. The Badgers controlled play most of the way en route to a 1-0

victory, but played without regulars Cameron Hughes, Adam INTERNET CONNECTION REQUIRED TO VIEW TWEETS Rockwood and Luke Kunin, as well as Peter Tischke. Instead, fans saw their first glimpse of redshirt freshman Alex SOCIAL Shuchuk and caught goaltender Gabe Grunwald’s first minutes MEDIA: in public. Now, after four weeks, the games count again ― so what should fans look for? UW grabbed a 3-0 road victory at Michigan State back on Dec. 12 in its last action. Combined with last weekend’s exhibition contest, UW hasn’t allowed a goal to an opponent in over 123 minutes. INSIDE WOMEN’S HOCKEY BY A.J. HARRISON ■ UW ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS DAVID STLUKA

Back from break, Badgers ready for 2016 No. 2-ranked UW opens second half with home series against Minnesota Duluth

ollowing a month-long break from games, No. 2-ranked TAP TO VIEW SCHEDULE Wisconsin is back in action this weekend, welcoming Min­ Fnesota Duluth to LaBahn Arena for a Friday-Sunday series. Wisconsin should enter the weekend fresh; the Badgers had more than two weeks away from the ice before returning to Madi­ son last week to resume practice. The break allowed the Badgers a chance to focus on final exams and also head home for the holidays. “I think the break was really beneficial for us,” junior Sarah Nurse said. “We play during the season and we’re on the ice almost every single day. I think for a lot of us we got a week to a SCROLL week-and-a-half off at home, relaxing with our families and get­ ting a chance to kind of miss the game and come back excited to play this weekend.” The hiatus came roughly halfway through the season, as UW enters this weekend’s series against UMD with an 18-1-1 re­

cord. Wisconsin’s .925 winning percentage is its third-best mark INTERNET CONNECTION REQUIRED TO VIEW TWEETS through 20 games in a season; only the 2008-09 national cham­ pion team (.950) and the 2012-13 NCAA runner-up squad (.950) SOCIAL had better winning clips through 20 contests. MEDIA: “I think the first half of the season went extremely well,” soph- omore Baylee Wellhausen said. “The team chemistry and talent is exciting to be a part of. Yes, we did lose a game, but that’s one game. “No team is perfect and I know that loss will only make us stronger as we move forward.” INSIDE SWIMMING & DIVING BY BRANDON HARRISON ■ UW ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS

Hawaii always a high point for Badgers Team in midst of fun, sun and swimming on annual training trip to Hawaiian islands

raining in Hawaii sure beats training in Wisconsin this time TAP TO VIEW SCHEDULE of the year… T That’s why it’s become an annual trip for the Wisconsin swimming and diving program to travel to the island of Oahu over its holiday break. This is by no means a beach vacation based around rest and relaxation. At least not entirely. Under head coach Whitney Hite, who is always seeking opportunities to train and improve, the trip to Hawaii is another chance for the Badgers to bond and get better. The scenery may change, but the work remains the same.

SCROLL Not surprisingly, it’s a trip student-athletes and coaches look forward to each season. While the team is hard at work ― and finding time in between to soak up the sunshine― seniors Jenny Holtzen and Ryan O’Donnell have been checking in with updates and photos from the trip for UWBadgers.com. Here’s a sample of their first entries. Be sure to checkUWBad ­

gers.com daily for updates and photos from the team’s island INTERNET CONNECTION REQUIRED TO VIEW TWEETS excursion. You can also follow the team on Twitter and on Face- book. SOCIAL MEDIA: Jenny checks in following Day 1 “After a very, very long travel day, we finally arrived in Hawaii yesterday evening. Because we were all tired and used to being on Madison time, we quickly grabbed groceries and went to bed. “Today started early with a 5:30 a.m. practice together as a team. Afterwards, everyone went back to their hotel rooms, made some breakfast, and recovered from practice. Most of us couldn’t wait to soak up the sunshine, so we hit the beach by our hotel early and stayed until it was time for our next practice at 1 p.m. For our afternoon swim, we split into groups based on what we swim and afterwards the women spun while the men lifted. Once we were finished with practice, it was back to the beach! “So far, we are having a great time in Hawaii. Everyone is look- ing forward to getting some great training in while enjoying the beautiful weather and scenery.”

Ryan checks in following Day 2 “Day 2 of the Hawaii training trip is in the books! It was another tough day of training for all of us, but who can really complain when you’re training in paradise?! The 5 a.m practices go by much faster when there’s a beach right up the road from the team hotel. “Speaking of beaches, tomorrow our team gets the afternoon off, which means we will be taking our annual team trip to the North Shore! The waves are forecast to be around 20 feet, so that’s something to look forward to. Overall the training has been hard, but the weather’s been beautiful! #anotherdayinparadise”

Jenny checks in following Day 3: “After two days of doubles we got our first afternoon off today! This morning we all swam and trained together and ‘played’ a racing game where we were paired up with another teammate and got a point every time we beat them. It was definitely a tough practice, but everything seems a little more doable when in Ha- waii! “After practice we made a quick turnaround to get to one of the beaches a little further from our hotel. We spent most of our day at Makapu’u, which had some nice waves to play in. Afterwards some went back to the hotel or the beach by our hotel, while others took a detour around the island and enjoyed shaved ice and the Dole Plantation. It was a much needed half day off and we made the most of it. Tomorrow we go back to doubles and are looking forward to getting in some more good work.” ■