A DAY FOR DEFENSE LB Sherard Cadogan (17) brings down RB Jeff Lewis (22) dur- ing a soggy scrimmage on Monday. The Badgers play their annual Spring Game this Saturday in Camp Randall at 4 p.m. PHOTO BY ROSS LADUE IN FOCUS ONCE A BADGER, ALWAYS A BADGER From left, Zak Showalter, assistant coach Lamont Paris and Sam Dekker pose for a photo after the two freshmen received their letter jackets from the National W Club on Tuesday evening. PHOTO BY ROSS LADUE IN FOCUS BIG WIN OVER BIG RED The Badgers used seven hits to score five runs and de- feat No. 22 Nebraska on their home field, a place where the Huskers rarely lose, Saturday afternoon. The Huskers are 25-3 at home over the past two seasons, with two of the three losses coming at the hands of the Badgers. PHOTO BY JAN HUMPHREYS IN FOCUS IN FOCUS GOOD(MAN) TO BE HOME After 37-consecutive games on the road to start the season, the softball team returned home to Goodman Diamond, playing host to Green Bay for a doubleheader on Tuesday. Seen here, Whitney Massey makes a play on a ground ball and tosses it to first base during the Badgers’ 4-3 win against the Phoenix. PHOTO BY ROSS LADUE

APRIL 18, 2013 CONTENTS VOLUME 3, ISSUE 37

» FOUR’S A CROWD DEPARTMENTS says Curt Phillips and Joel Stave have separated themselves, but the Badgers have 14 LUCAS AT LARGE by Mike Lucas choices to make when it comes to who will take the 30 snaps for the Badgers this fall. 16 BEHIND THE DESK by Barry Alvarez 18 THE VOICE « GOLD by Matt Lepay STANDARD 46 20 BY THE NUMBERS Alex Rigsby has seen her share of highs and 22 5 THINGS TO WATCH lows, but Mark Johnson says the Badgers’ goaltender has 24 ASK THE BADGERS Tiger Woods’ penalty nowhere to go but up. 26 BADGERING 28 STUDENT-ATHLETES » SPRINT TO OF THE MONTH THE FINISH 60 With 30 wins to their 58 INSIDE SPORTS Football, Softball name, the Badgers’ softball team feels as though it’s just getting 62 THIS WEEK IN HISTORY started on its biggest goals. Draft day decisions

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Travels show Genyk it’s a small world here have been a couple of ern Michigan, he even taught doing, another window subse- windows in Jeff Genyk’s classes. quently opened up for Genyk, who Tresume that have allowed “I fell in love with it (coaching),’’ was hired by ESPN Regional Tele- the first-year Wisconsin tight ends he said. “That’s what I wanted to vision in 2009 as a color analyst coach to more fully appreciate a do and I worked my tail off.’’ for its broadcasts of ACC football sport that ultimately he could not It paid dividends when North- games. live without. western’s hired In his debut, Boston College held The first was after Genyk, a Genyk as a grad assistant in 1992. on for a 27-24 overtime win over quarterback, graduated from Genyk worked his way into a full- Wake Forest when there was a mix- Bowling Green in 1982 with a time position with Barnett and up in the backfield and the Wake degree in business administra- also served the late Randy Walker. quarterback lost a fumble in a first- tion. For the next nine years he Handling a variety of assign- and-goal situation from the 4. had a successful career away from ments ― from special teams to “What struck me was the look ― football. coaching tailbacks, linebackers that I’ve experienced (as a coach) Genyk worked for Marathon Oil and safeties ― Genyk spent 12 ― on the coaching staff and play- at four Eastern locations for about years with the Wildcats, the last ers of Wake Forest,’’ Genyk said, four years. After the price of oil five with Walker, who passed away “and then the jubilation of Boston dipped, he transitioned into the of- in 2006. College. fice furniture industry back in his While at Northwestern, he “As a broadcaster, you have home state of Michigan. earned another master’s degree neither. You’ve done your job, you “It was a great time in my life (education and social policy). He shake your play-by-play man’s being able to travel all over the also used the Big Ten as a spring- hand and you ask, ‘Where do you world,’’ said Genyk, an Ann Arbor board. In 2003, Genyk was named want to go to dinner?’’’ native, who was responsible for head coach at Eastern Michigan. Genyk liked what he was doing international purchasing, among Running his own program for in TV ― “It was a great experience other management duties. five years, he gained an under- and I felt I grew as a person,’’ but That eventually led him to the standing for “all that’s on a head he wanted so much more out of the automotive industry and a cross- coach’s plate’’ and the importance football experience, thus, rekin- roads in his life. “I was making of “not getting too emotional, too dling his passion for coaching. good money,’’ he said, “but I didn’t high or too low’’ during games. After three seasons at Cal ― have a great passion for business It was during this stint that Ge- where he got to know new UW of- even when it was going well.’’ nyk actively recruited a tight end fensive coordinator Andy Ludwig In mapping out his future, it out of Menominee (Mich.) High ― the 52-year-old Genyk caught was obvious that football was still School in the Upper Peninsula. on at Nevada in January before in Genyk’s blood, especially since “We were expecting him to come rejoining Ludwig and Pedersen at his father, George, was a former to Eastern Michigan,’’ he said. Wisconsin. Michigan captain and longtime Jacob Pedersen had the same Putting things in perspective, high school coach. expectation. “They were the only Pedersen said, “I kind of laughed Genyk, then 29, summarily left D-I school to offer me,’’ said Ped- when I heard he was the next tight the business world to become a ersen, who ended up at Wisconsin ends coach coming in (after Jay volunteer coach at Grand Rap- after Genyk was fired at the end of Boulware abruptly left for Okla- ids (Mich.) Community College. 2008 season at Eastern. homa). Armed with his MBA from West- Although it was not of his own “It’s a small world.’’

14 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013 MIKE LUCAS • UWBADGERS.COM BEHIND THE DESK BARRY ALVAREZ • UW DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS

Changes keeping spring in players’ steps ary Andersen has done physical maturity from the spring I knew most of the guys on the some neat things breaking to the fall, particularly with the selection committee, including the Gup the routine this spring younger guys. I’ve seen them chairman, Gene Corrigan, who was for our players, including a dance- change their bodies and come back the Notre Dame off. I also heard that he had the totally different in August. when I was on ’s coach- team singing “On, Wisconsin’’ It would be nice to draw a good ing staff. after a practice. crowd Saturday. We’ve tried every- During our meetings in Atlanta, I like the fact that he has been thing imaginable to increase our we evaluated 77 players and a trying to keep things interesting by attendance for the spring game. handful of coaches on the ballot. I changing things up. He has let the But our fans have too many others really enjoyed the process and the kids have some fun ― it’s not all things going on. people involved in the voting. It pounding and football ― and he’s was a good group of guys. getting to know them better. It was kind of funny. During a It’s not like, “I’m your coach and I like the fact that break you might hear someone I’m going to drill you on the same (Andersen) has been say, “You know, he was a helluva things: keep your outside arm and trying to keep things player.’’ And the reaction was pre- leg free on defense and hold the interesting by chang- dictable, “No kidding.’’ All of them ball high and tight on offense.’’ were first-team All-Americans. Gary has even opened up a ing things up. He has On Monday, I was sitting with couple of practices to the public. let the kids have some former Boston College athletic I can’t remember ever doing that fun ... and he’s getting director Gene DeFilippo ― we when I was coaching. It’s all a little have been friends for a long time bit different. But he’s still making to know them better. ― when news of the Boston Mara- it competitive for the kids. thon bombings came on the news. The spring game is another way There are some places where Gene, of course, went running to compete, and I’m hoping we there’s nothing else to do. out of the room and called his fam- have a decent day on Saturday. I’ve Earlier this week, I had the ily and made sure everyone was always talked about the impor- privilege to serve on the selection OK. The rest of the day his phone tance of playing in front of a crowd committee for the lit up with people checking with as far as a learning experience. Hall of Fame as a voting member him. It’s another environment that of the National Football Founda- Someone else in the room got a players have to get accustomed to tion’s Honors Court. call from his son, who asked, “Dad, during their development; espe- I was invited to join the Court what happened?’’ cially if they haven’t gotten on the this year along with Charles Davis, It’s so sobering, and you ask field for us yet and had that crowd the Fox sportscaster; and Steve yourself, “Why? Why did it hap- reaction. Richardson, the executive director pen?’’ I never really drew any con- of the football writers association. It was so senseless, it made me clusions from the spring game. I Charles and I go way back. I sick. can’t think of any specific example worked alongside of Charles and Sometimes we get upset with where someone separated them- Thom Brennaman on the Fox security restrictions ― this, that selves from others at their posi- telecasts of the and the other ― but it only takes a tion. and BCS National Championship tragedy like this to heighten every- But there can be a big jump in game. one’s awareness.

16 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013 BARRY ALVAREZ • UW DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS THE VOICE MATT LEPAY • VOICE OF THE BADGERS

Spring game serves as audition for some ith any luck, this Sat- said Andersen. “Saturday is big for and James (White) doesn’t get as urday’s spring game at them to get out there and play in many carries as you want. W front of people. They need to get “At the end of the day, those are will unfold with actual spring out and do more than run down on just excuses. We need to be more weather. a kickoff.” explosive as a football team. Then again, since that is out of The defense is developing, es- “We need to get some throws our control, why worry about it? pecially the front seven. While you over 25 yards, and we need to get A day in the high 40s is football will not see some of the familiar some runs over 15 yards consis- weather, right? faces on Saturday, spring practice tently. When you do that, you are Outdoor practices have been in- has given the team a chance to a good offense,” he added. “Show frequent this spring, but on Mon- develop some depth. me a good offense that just trudges day, coach Gary Andersen had his “There are a lot of kids fight- down the field, you know, 12 plays, team scrimmage during a steady ing for positions,” said Andersen. three or four times a game, and rain. While the offense had its “There are kids who have played goes four or five yards at a shot ― struggles, Andersen was encour- for two and three years here, and they are not a great offense. It is aged with a seemingly little thing played at a high level and played impossible. There is not enough that can become a big thing. well that are getting pushed. And time in a game, and there are not “We didn’t drop the ball in the that is a good thing.” enough quarters in a game to be snap,” he said. “That was impres- Andersen seems to fit the defi- able to do it that way.” sive, especially from a rookie cen- nition of a players’ coach. He has Andersen acknowledges those ter (redshirt freshman Dan Voltz) sprinkled in some fun things long drives can serve a purpose in and a bunch of different quarter- during spring ball, such as hav- wearing down a defense. He simply backs. (The players) didn’t say a ing a dance contest and having his would rather not have to rely solely word about the weather. That’s a players sing “On, Wisconsin.” He on long, time-consuming marches. good thing. They go out and take says the team will sing the fight He wants to see the ball move in care of business, which is what we song after every game, both home bigger chunks. would expect to have done.” and away. “We can get it done in the back- During an interview this week My guess is Badgers fans will field, there is no question,” said on Madison radio station The Big love it. Andersen. “We have tight ends that 1070, Andersen talked about the My guess is Badgers fans also can make some big plays. Jared development of his team in gen- will appreciate Andersen’s some- can make big plays. After that, we eral, and of some of the younger times candid nature. Candid have got to challenge ourselves as players specifically. without calling out specific players. coaches, myself and players to be Players such as outside lineback- During the radio interview, Ander- able to have some young men on ers Vince Biegel and Joe Schobert, sen made it clear he wants to see the offensive side of the ball that as well as defensive lineman James more punch from the offense. can consistently make big plays Adeyanju. “Football is a hard game to play down the field.” Regarding the young players, when you have to do everything While it is one scrimmage to or the not-so-young Badgers who exactly right. We need to be more conclude spring practices, maybe could be in line for bigger roles this explosive on offense. And that is that is something to keep an eye fall, Saturday’s scrimmage matters. hard sometimes when you don’t on. “They need to get out there,” have Jared (Abbrederis) out there, Hope to see you this Saturday.

18 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013 MATT LEPAY • VOICE OF THE BADGERS BY THE NUMBERS 75.13 MEN’S GOLF Thomas O’Bryan has led the Badgers in four tournaments and is averaging 75.13 strokes per round this year.

MEN’S TRACK & FIELD In their first run in the event in nine years, Wisconsin won the 4x1500- meter relay last Saturday at the Sea Ray Relays in Knoxville, Tenn. The quartet of Rob Finnerty, Maverick Darling, Alex Brill and Reed Connor clocked in at 15:35.83 to take the win. It was UW’s first appearance in a 4x1500 since Simon Bairu, Matt Tegenkamp and Chris Solinsky teamed up to win the event at the 2004 Sea Ray Relays. 9 SOFTBALL29 Shannel Blackshear belted her eighth home run of the season to lead the Badgers to 5-2 win over No. 22 Nebraska on Saturday. The senior third baseman’s game-winning homer was the 29th of her career, moving her just one longball away from the UW school record.

MEN’S TENNIS

Alexander Kostanov and Billy Bertha made their debut at No. 88 in the Campbell’s/ITA College Tennis Division I Poll this week following their 8-5 upset over Purdue’s No. 79 Szymon Tatarczyk and Krisztian Krocsko on Friday. 88 20 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013

5 THINGS TO WATCH APRIL 18 - 24

SATURDAY 4/20 • 4 PM • BTN Finally football • Football Spring Game Fans can get their first taste of football in the Gary Andersen era at the 2013 Spring Game on April 20. BTN will provide complete coverage of the event starting at 4 p.m. from Camp Randall Stadium.

SUNDAY 4/21 • 1 PM • BTN.com 1 Badgers vs. Buckeyes • Softball vs. Ohio State The Badgers are looking for a sweep over the Buckeyes in their first home Big Ten series of the season. BTN.com will stream the series finale live at 1 p.m. on Sunday, before re-airing the game Tuesday at 8:30 a.m.

WEDNESDAY 4/24 • 3/5 PM • BTN.com 2 Welcome Wildcats • Softball vs. Northwestern The Big Ten season heats up when Northwestern visits Goodman Diamond for a doubleheader on April 24. A live stream from BTN.com brings you the action, from first pitch to final out, live online starting at 3 p.m.

THURSDAY 4/25 • 5 PM • BTN

3 The champs are here • Wisconsin vs. Nebraska - 2012 Big Ten Championship Game of the week? More like game of the year! Relive Wisconsin’s huge, 70-31, win over Nebraska in the Big Ten Championship Game in Indianapolis. Catch the replay on BTN at 5 p.m. on April 25.

THURSDAY 4/25 • 7 PM • NFL Network 4 Draft day • 2013 NFL Draft Watch to see where your favorite Badgers get drafted as the 2013 NFL Draft returns to primetime, with the first round taking place April 25 at 7 p.m., followed by the second and third rounds on April 26 at 5:30 p.m. Rounds 4-7 will be held April 27 at 11 a.m. Watch it live on NFL Network. 522 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013 2 4 Question of the Week: Tiger Woods was assessed a two-stroke penalty for an Ask The improper drop during The Masters last weekend. How do you think the tournament officials BADGERS should have handled it?

TODD OEHRLEIN • HEAD COACH • WOMEN’S GOLF “It was an interesting discussion amongst the team, just knowing the rule and knowing what you’re supposed to do and how you’re supposed to handle it. I have no problems with Tiger Woods playing over the weekend. The rules official said it was okay to play, and that was their ruling. So I thought he should go ahead and play.”

MICHAEL BURCIN HEAD COACH • MEN’S GOLF

LINDSAY DANIELSON • SENIOR • WOMEN’S GOLF “I think that the penalty for the improper drop was appropriate. The mistake was clearly unintentional and while it seems to have been an advantage, there was a very small difference in where he dropped his ball and where the nearest point was. It was definitely a unique situation, but I ’’think the tournament officials made the right decision in letting him continue the tournament.”

BRADY KEEGAN • SENIOR • MEN’S GOLF “I feel he should have withdrawn from the tournament based on similar past experiences with lesser-known players who have also ‘unknowingly’ broken the rules of golf and have taken the high road and withdrawn. Although Tiger’s situation is a very unique one, it doesn’t take away from the fact that he broke the rule and should be held to the same moral expectations that players in the past have been held to.”

24 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013

BADGERING...

BILLY BERTHA »» MEN’S TENNIS Senior team captain Billy Bertha has been a force for UW for the past four years. The Whitefish Bay, Wis., native holds a 54-59 singles record and a dominating 69-37 doubles record during his time at Wisconsin. This year, Bertha paired with Alexander Kostanov to record a 9-8 doubles mark, including victories over two nationally-ranked duos. This weekend, Bertha and Kostanov will celebrate their final matches at Nielsen Tennis Stadium as the Badgers commemorate Senior Day on Sunday against Nebraska.

As the only team member from Wisconsin, what is it like to represent your home state? “It’s huge, I picked Wisconsin over a couple other Big Ten schools. I think my dad and mom had a little input on it. They were both alumni from here, so they were kind of pushing me towards it. It’s been a great four years and I have no regrets, it’s been awesome.”

What has the experience been like having four freshmen on the team this year? “Those guys come from overseas so it’s cool to be almost like a big brother to them. I’ve been here for four years so I know the lay of the land. Getting them accustomed to the university, college tennis and life in America in general is a good experience for me. I hope I’ve been able to teach them a couple things.” What is your best memory from your time at Wisconsin? “The highlight of my Badger career has been when we made it to the Sweet 16 my freshman year. I clinched the match going forward there. We were on the road at Illinois in a pretty hostile environment and getting it done there was pretty cool. It was the first time in school history for our team so it was awesome.” Will you be continuing with tennis next year? “I will be taking classes all of next year, so no tennis. It’s going to be weird losing that competition every day in practice and matches, but it will be nice to move on and get started on a new phase of my life.”

26 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013

STUDENT-ATHLETES OF THE MONTH

Each month, the UW Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) selects its “Student-Athletes of the Month.” These student-athletes are nominated by their coaches and academic advisors based on the following criteria: • Be academically eligible and in good academic standing • Have obtained an outstanding achievement or recognition in academics • Make a significant contribution to their respective team • Be actively engaged in community service SAAC members then vote on the winners at the first SAAC meeting of each month. The goal is to have each sport represented throughout the year. At the end of the year, all of the “Student-Athletes of the Month” become the nominations for the male and female Student-Athlete of the Year awards, which is awarded at the Buckinghams.

KENDALL SCHMIDT BEN RUBLE MARY MASSEI WOMEN’S ROWING MEN’S ROWING SOFTBALL A senior from Greenfield, Wis, Ruble is a senior from Min- A Chino Hills, Calif., native, Schmidt is majoring in Civil neapolis majoring in computer Massei leads the Badgers with a Engineering. She has been the engineering. His coaches say he .425 batting average. The junior top coxswain on the team for is possibly the strongest pound- outfielder is second in the Big the past two seasons and is for-pound rower in the history Ten with 57 hits and three tri- on track to repeat this season. of the program at UW. Twenty ples. She earned Big Ten Player Coaches call her a team leader pounds lighter than the average of the Week honor following an both on and off the water that rower, Ruble has broken every impressive weekend at the Dia- has proven herself to be one of significant ergometer mark for mond 9 Tournament Feb.22-24 the best athletes on the team collegiate rowing, including the where she batted .571, driving even though her job does not six-minute mark for a 2-kilome- in nine runs and scoring seven. demand it. She has the highest ter race, which is the national She became the first Wiscon- cumulative GPA on the team in team standard. He’s been re- sin player almost four seasons a demanding major and is in the cently voted team captain for the to record a walk-off home run running for an NCAA Elite 89 2012-13 season. when she belted a two-run award this spring. Schmidt has homer in the 11th inning against earned multiple Big Ten Distin- Notre Dame on Feb. 10 to lead guished Scholar and Academic Wisconsin to victory. Massei All-America awards and is heav- and the Badgers are off to the ily involved in the rowing teams’ best start in program history community service projects. with a 30-9 record.

28 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013

THE QUARTERBACK QUESTION Two have separated themselves in spring practice, but with three returning starters and a rocket-armed rookie already in the fold, the Badgers have some choices to make under center

BY MIKE LUCAS • UWBADGERS.COM ROSS LADUE THE QUARTERBACK QUESTION Two have separated themselves in spring practice, but with three returning starters and a rocket-armed rookie already in the fold, the Badgers have some choices to make under center

BY MIKE LUCAS • UWBADGERS.COM ROSS LADUE ROSS LADUE

isconsin quarterbacks Curt “But the key is that they can walk in there (the Phillips and Joel Stave could huddle) and those offensive linemen and tight ends not have taken more divergent and wide receivers and running backs are going to paths to the same destination. lock their eyes on the quarterback and they’re go- But despite some of their dif- ing to have the belief that he can get it done because Wferences ― the ACL-ravaged Phillips was once a he’s the guy who’s going to touch the ball first.’’ running threat, the piano-playing Stave was once Here’s how Stave’s and Phillips’ paths inter- a walk-on ― they shared the same classroom last sected in 2012. Stave, a redshirt freshman from season as first-time starters and now both are ap- Whitnall High School in Greenfield, Wis., replaced plying that education to winning the No. 1 job. Maryland transfer Danny O’Brien in the second “I think it’s very clear these two young men have half of the Utah State game and got his first colle- separated themselves throughout the spring,’’ said giate start the following week against UTEP. Stave UW head coach Gary Andersen. “It’s production- went on to start five Big Ten games before dislo- based. It’s also their ability to carry themselves and cating his collarbone in an Oct. 27 overtime loss to lead the offense. They are both leaders in different Michigan State. ways. Neither of them is a rah-rah guy. Enter a battle-worn, if not battle-tested, Phillips,

32 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013 ● ● ● ● “I think it’s very clear these hen Phillips got to Madison in two young men have sepa- 2008 as a four-star prospect (according to Rivals.com), he rated themselves throughout was regarded as a dual-threat the spring,’’ Andersen said of quarterback who could impact a Phillips and Stave. “It’s produc- Wgame more readily with his feet than his arm. Dur- ing Phillips’ redshirt season, Dustin Sherer and Al- tion-based. It’s also their lan Evridge were the co-starters and Scott Tolzien ability to carry themselves was No. 3 on the depth chart. Phillips and Tolzien have remained close over the years and they spoke and lead the offense. last week. Phillips related how Tolzien reminded him to a fifth-year senior from Sullivan South High School “just be relaxed’’ and “not to look at what anybody in Kingsport, Tenn., and a survivor of three ACL else is doing within the starting quarterback com- surgeries on his right knee. Prior to taking over as petition’’ but “just let it come to you.’’ Suitably the starter at Indiana, Phillips had not seen any moved, Phillips said, “Ultimately all that matters is game action since 2009. Undaunted by his inactiv- what I do, not what is going on around me.’’ ity, Phillips started the last five games and twice In 2010, Tolzien broke out of the pack to lead sparked late fourth-quarter rallies that led to over- times. Although it was initially assumed that Stave had been lost for the rest of the season, he resumed practicing in December and wound up playing one series ― in relief of Phillips ― against Stanford in the Rose Bowl. They entered the spring in a dead heat. “Both possess a solid skill set to play quarter- back in the Big Ten,’’ offered UW offensive coordi- nator Andy Ludwig. “I like watching them compete every day.’’ Taking advantage of a sixth year to complete his college eligibility, Phillips affirmed, “Competition brings out the best in everybody. Fortunately since I’ve been here the quarterbacks have always gotten along really well. No matter who was playing (last year) ― me, Joel or Danny ― when you came off the field, you could ask them what they saw and you could trust them.’’ Spelling out some differences ― “Curt has been around here longer so we have a different style of leading” ― Stave shed light on the competitive instincts that he shares with Phillips. “I’d like to think that me and Curt are friends,’’ he said. “We talk about what we see on the field and help each other when we can. But we’re both competitors and want to be the one who plays at the end of the day.’’

33 “...I now have the confidence last season with the 49ers behind Colin Kaepernick and the since traded Alex Smith. to pull the trigger as opposed Phillips is still attempting to go to school on what to when I was trying to make he saw out of Tolzien and Russell Wilson when they were commanding the huddle and orchestrat- sure I saw everything and ing the offense for the Badgers. “Learning from I tried to be perfect,” Phillips those guys and how they handled things,’’ he said, said. “I can play that much “I molded it into my own game.’’ So what did Phillips learn about himself last sea- faster and get the ball in son that has future application? the hands of guys who can “Staying even-keel is important,’’ he said. “There were some very big ups and some big downs. We’d make plays.’’ score to get into overtime but we wouldn’t come out of there with the win. Being able to handle those the Badgers to a Big Ten title and Rose Bowl. “He’s ups and downs throughout a game is an advantage a great example of somebody who worked hard,’’ because I’ve been in those situations.’’ Phillips said, “and just went about his business and Did Phillips play with a different urgency late in didn’t worry about everything else ― all the talk the fourth quarter than he did otherwise? (on who should start) ― and it worked out for him.’’ “That’s when you don’t have any other option When the San Francisco 49ers acquired Colt Mc- but to let it go,’’ he confirmed. “You’re not second- Coy during the offseason, the irony was not lost on guessing things, you’re not holding on to it (the Phillips that another obstacle has been thrown in ball), you’re just back there playing, like you’re front of Tolzien, who was the No. 3 quarterback playing in the backyard. Trying to apply that to ev-

34 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013 ery other situation, you have to be smart about it.’’ But he would definitely like to replicate that ur- gency more often, especially the results. “I want to become more of a pocket passer,’’ said Phillips, addressing how he can get better coming off his first year as a contributor. “Obviously, I don’t have the same game that I used to have ― running around and using my mobility. At the same time, I’m more of a well-rounded quarterback. “Because I can’t rely on athleticism, I have to have a plan going in. And I now have the confidence to pull the trigger as opposed to when I was trying to make sure I saw everything and I tried to be perfect. I can play that much faster and get the ball in the hands of guys who can make plays.’’ Phillips had some surgery after the Rose Bowl, which limited him during winter conditioning. “But I was just making sure I was engaged as much as I could be mentally,’’ said Phillips, who declared “I feel good out there now’’ on the practice field even if he isn’t quite back to 100 percent. Phillips, like the other Badgers quarterbacks, has been adjusting to a new offensive coordinator in Ludwig ― the third in as many years following and Matt Canada ― and some different ter- minology. “It’s not a pure West Coast offense, but it’s a little bit of a hybrid,’’ Phillips said. “But it’s exciting. There are a lot of different ways to play football.’’ Accepting change is the key. “You can either get frustrated with it and look at it as your third offense in a certain amount of time or you can embrace it,’’ said Phillips. “For a guy like me who might be interested in coaching one day, it’s an advantage because you get to hear a lot of different ways of coaching things and you can mold it all into what you like.’’ For the first time in his UW career, Phillips can go to the film and critique himself. “It’s a lot more fun that way, I can tell you that,’’ he said with a grin. “It makes the meetings a lot more exciting to see yourself on film instead of watching someone else. You can always say, ‘I would have done this’ (if he had been playing in that situation). Once it’s actu- ally on film, you get to learn from it and build on it.’’ ● ● ● ● DAVID STLUKA

36 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013

“I’ve tried to take everything in stride, I guess, by not really worrying about anything except what I can control,” Stave said. “People are going to say what they’re going to say and think what they’re going to think, but as long as I’m doing what I can to help the team that’s what I want to do.’’

ilm study has been instru- mental in Stave’s devel- opment. “I learned how to watch and understand film ― Fknowing what to look for when you’re watching film then recognizing it when you’re actually playing,’’ said Stave, who redshirted as a freshman walk-on in 2011. “It was something I had never really done before and it was a huge learning step for me.’’ Gameday lessons are generally the most impactful and lasting. “You can always make decisions thought you should throw it or shouldn’t have been better, you can always anticipate throws better,’’ throwing it. Sometimes, it’s a good read and a good Stave said. “That’s something I’d like to continue decision, and you just missed the throw.’’ to get better at ― seeing throws before they’re open. In dealing with media scrutiny, if not fan mes- It comes with timing; it comes with confidence and sage bard feedback, in such a high-profile position, watching film and understanding what you’re look- Stave said, “I’ve tried to take everything in stride, ing for. If you’re able to anticipate openings in the I guess, by not really worrying about anything ex- defense, you’re able to throw it before you see it.’’ cept what I can control. People are going to say Throwing picks is part of the orientation (read: what they’re going to say and think what they’re growing pains) for a first-time starter at quarter- going to think, but as long as I’m doing what I can back and another learning step. Stave was inter- to help the team that’s what I want to do.’’ cepted three times in 119 throws last season. Prior to getting on the field, Stave was better “Obviously a pick is something no quarterback known on campus for his skills as a pianist. His ever wants to throw,’’ Stave conceded. “But there rendition of “Drops of Jupiter’’ by Train was a hit was a reason why you were throwing the ball, so at the Buckinghams. But in making his first Big you go back and watch the film and see why you Ten start at Nebraska, he showed poise in a hostile

38 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013 venue and the ability to hit some high notes as a quarterback. In retrospect, Stave was grateful that he didn’t take any hits on his collarbone in the Rose Bowl. Then, again, Canada opted to use him for just one series. “That wasn’t my decision,’’ Stave said. “If I was out there playing every play, I wouldn’t have played any differently than I normally would have. But the winter workouts were really good for me and my collarbone doesn’t bother me at all.’’ In getting a feel for the new offense, Stave said, “From a fan’s perspective, you won’t be able to tell a whole lot is different. We’re going to do what we do, which is run power, run zone and throw play-action passes. The calls in the run game are similar (to Chryst’s system) but the protections and pass game is all new stuff for the most part. I think it’s good stuff, too.’’ Where does he need to get better? “There’s room for improvement just about every- where,’’ he said. “I would say (more so) in decision-making and consistency. You can’t have a good play here and a bad play there. You have to be the same guy every day and play at a high level every snap.’’

DAVID STLUKA On Andersen’s influence on his -mind set this spring, Stave said, “He’s done a far good job so far kind of pushing me and get- ting me to make throws and decisions that I need to make. He knows that it’s a compe- tition (for the starting assignment) and he’s trying to get the best out of everyone.’’ At the end of spring practice last April, Stave had done enough to earn a scholarship and it was clear that he had separated him- self from Joe Brennan (who ended up trans- ferring) and Phillips (who was still rehab- bing and had been limited to 7-on-7 passing drills). “But it’s still an open competition,’’ cau- tioned Stave, knowing O’Brien was joining the mix. ● ● ● ●

39 f you were wondering if O’Brien, who was the starting quarter- back in the 2012 opener, had any thoughts of leaving Wisconsin af- DAVID STLUKA ter failing to hold on to the start- Iing job, think again. “I love it here,’’ O’Brien said. “It didn’t pan out personally the way I pictured it when I came here initially (from Mary- land), but you just can’t pack it in and leave if something doesn’t go your way. “I came here for a reason,” he said, pausing, “and I’m still finding out what that reason is. But all you can do is bust your butt every day and hope for the best. “My goal (this spring),’’ he went on, “has been to grade out the best among the quarterbacks with the reps that I get, whether it’s even or not. That’s really been my focus every day. “I feel like I’m playing the best football of my life right now. This system is simi- lar to what I’ve run before and had suc- cess in.’’ O’Brien is 12 credits away from com- pleting his graduate degree in Education Leadership and Policy Analysis. (Phillips needs just one more class in ELPA to fin- ish his master’s.) Uncertain what is role might be on this team, O’Brien promised, “I can guaran- tee that I’m going to be the first one out there and the last one to leave; be it the film room, weight room or the field.’’ Whereas there’s little that O’Brien

“I feel like I’m playing the best football of my life right now,” O’Brien said. “This system is similar to what I’ve run before and had success in.”

40 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013 hasn’t seen as a college quarterback, freshman Bart the skills.’’ Houston is at the opposite end of the spectrum Ludwig already has a working knowledge of and trying to absorb everything that he can during Houston’s skill set after having recruited him dur- spring ball. ing his coaching tenures as an assistant at both the A shoulder injury relegated Houston to the side- University of California and San Diego State. line most of last fall. “The last real snaps I took “There’s no doubt that Bart needs to catch up, under center in a game was running the split back he’s a year behind,’’ Ludwig said. “But not many veer in high school,’’ he said. “It’s been a long wait.’’ people can throw it like Bart. He just has to put the Houston was extremely successful as a prep rest of the pieces of the puzzle together.’’ quarterback in posting a three-year record of 38-1 Andersen will be doing the same thing ― sorting while leading De La Salle High School (Concord, through the various pieces ― when the quarterback Calif.) to three state championships. mix expands in the fall to include Tanner McEvoy, “I do have confidence in my arm,’’ said Houston, a junior college transfer. whose primary objective in the spring has been to Until then, neither Phillips nor Stave is looking knock off the rust and “become a more polished over their shoulder. quarterback.’’ “If anything,’’ Phillips said, “You kind of use that On his transition to the collegiate level, he said, as motivation.’’ “I’m in the learning process; I have a long ways to “Another guy thrown into the competition’’ add- go. But I want to show them (the coaches) I have ed Stave, “will only make us all better.’’ ROSS LADUE

41 Brock DeCicco Jared Abbrederis DAVID STLUKA 2013 Spring Game: What to watch for Mike Lucas takes a look at some of the key storylines to study on Saturday

STEEL CITY CONNECTION: One of the PITCHERS AND CATCHERS REPORT?: noteworthy developments of spring ball has The Badgers were one of nine schools to have been the emergence of 6-foot-5, 250-pound at least three different starting quarterbacks senior Brock DeCicco (No. 81), who has played in 2012 and the lack of continuity at the posi- himself into the tight end/H-back rotation tion was generally reflected in a passing of- of Jacob Pedersen, Brian Wozniak and Sam fense (156.9 yards per game) that ranked 111th Arneson. Whereas Pedersen was the second- nationally. Florida, incidentally, won 11 games leading receiver last season with 27 catches despite a No. 114 ranking, while another 11- (13.1 average, 4 TDs), DeCicco rarely got on win team, Utah State, was No. 40. First-year the field outside of special teams and didn’t UW coach Gary Andersen is seeking some have a reception in his first year of eligibility at reliable wide receivers to complement Jared Wisconsin after transferring from Pittsburgh. Abbrederis (No. 4) and the search this spring In 2010, DeCicco (a Jefferson Mills, Pa. native) has encompassed just about everyone in uni- started three games at Pitt and went 2-for-2. form from tendered candidates (No. 16, Reg- He had only two catches, but both went for gie Love) to walk-ons (No. 7, Brett Arnold, a touchdowns. former team manager).

42 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013 3-4 SCHEME ADDS UP BIG FOR 3 OR 4: and Shelton Johnson), the secondary is in the In transitioning from a 4-3 defensive align- process of a makeover that has entailed con- ment to a 3-4, the Badgers have created some verting Reggie Mitchell (No. 26) from corner fresh opportunities for unproven players who to safety. Mitchell, a cousin of New York Jets are seemingly better fits at outside linebacker cornerback Darrelle Revis, was an option within the new system. The short list includes quarterback at Shady Side Academy in Pitts- Vince Biegel (No. 47), Joe Schobert (No. 42), burgh. He’s no Revis; no Fletcher, either. But Jesse Hayes (No. 41) and Nick Hill (No. 52). Mitchell, who was sidelined last season after With the exception of Schobert, a converted tweaking his knee, has gotten some valuable safety, the others have dealt with injuries. reps this spring which should accelerate his Biegel is the son of a former BYU linebacker growth. (Rocky Biegel), Hayes is the son of a former Badgers assistant (Jay Hayes, the D-line coach 2012 FLASHBACK: had 30 with the Cincinnati Bengals). In 13 games last carries for 159 yards and one touchdown in year, Utah State’s pressure defense resulted in sparking the Cardinal team to a 21-10 victory 42 quarterback sacks -- only five teams in the over the White squad in last year’s Spring country had more (Stanford, Arizona State, Game at Camp Randall Stadium. Gordon got a Tulsa, USC, South Carolina). By comparison, chance to show off his running skills because the UW had 30 sacks in 14 games. Montee Ball was held out of the scrimmage as a precaution and James White was rehabbing STEEL CITY CONNECTION, II: One of the an injury. Quarterback Joel Stave completed elite defensive backs to have ever played at 14-of-25 passes for 135 yards. Isaiah Williams, Wisconsin was an option quarterback in high now a safety, had five catches for 53 yards school, and there’s a very good chance that and Chase Hammond had four for 48 and a nobody will ever come close to matching the touchdown. Defensive tackle Beau Allen and productivity of cornerback Jamar Fletcher, linebacker A.J Fenton each finished with 3 a game-breaker. With the graduation loss of TFLs. During rapid-fire kicking, Kyle French three starters (Marcus Cromartie, Devin Smith converted on 8 of 10 field goal attempts.

Joe Schobert Jesse Hayes DAVID STLUKA DAVID STLUKA 43

GOLD STANDARD GOLD STANDARD A year that started with devastating news ended with a euphoric experience for goaltender Alex Rigsby, who has set her sights squarely on the Olympic Games

BY MIKE LUCAS • UWBADGERS.COM ANDRE RINGUETTE/HHOF-IIHF IMAGES JANA CHYTILOVA/HHOF-IIHF IMAGES

hen the leaders spoke, Wiscon- “Just spending eight to 10 days with the better sin women’s hockey goaltender players that we have in this country,’’ said Badgers Alex Rigsby heeded their words. coach Mark Johnson, “and watching how they op- When the playmakers made erate and conduct themselves is very helpful.’’ plays, she recorded their im- Priceless would be the word. Wpact. When the crowd roared, she stood in awe on Nobody may have a better pulse on this level the bench. of competition and what it means to don a USA “You could feel the vibrations,’’ said Rigsby, a sweater than Johnson, one of the heroes of the 21-year-old UW junior from Delafield, Wis. “Oh, 1980 gold-medal winning Olympic team in Lake my gosh, it was awesome.’’ Placid. Rigsby collected a gold medal and gained invalu- Johnson’s rich international background has ex- able experience at the recent IIHF Women’s World tended from the ice to the bench. In 2010, he guid- Championship in Ottawa, Ontario, even though ed the American women to a silver medal at the she never got into a game for Team USA. Winter Olympics in Vancouver, British Columbia.

48 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013 fore moving on to the collegiate ranks. “You compete against these girls “You compete against these girls throughout throughout the year and then you the year and then you come together,’’ pointed out Rigsby, UW’s career saves leader after just come together,’’ pointed out Rigsby. three seasons. “We had a great motto: Team “We had a great motto: Team First.’’ First.’’ It was reinforced, Rigsby said, by their lead- ers: Julie Chu, the oldest member of the squad Thus, he was able to bring context to Rigsby’s at 31; Kacey Bellamy, 25; and Meghan Duggan, ongoing apprenticeship on the national team. 25, a UW captain when Rigsby was a freshman. “Whether you play a minute or don’t play at all,’’ he “Having the top players working together is said, “being in that atmosphere is going to help.’’ huge,’’ she said. “There was so much leadership and The atmosphere has never been better than it it came out every day with people doing what they was during the 2013 World Championships, which could to help the team become the best it could be.’’ attracted record crowds, including 18,013 for the fi- Rigsby spent a lot of time in Ottawa observing nal preliminary game between Finland and Canada. Vetter, 27, one of the most accomplished goalies in There were nearly 14,000 in Scotiabank Place, the world and a Rigsby role model dating back to the home rink of the Ottawa Senators of the Na- Vetter’s spectacular career at Wisconsin. tional Hockey League, for the April 9 gold-medal “She’s just the most composed person; she’s matchup between the USA and Canada. Canadian Prime Minister Ste- phen Harper was among those who left disappointed after the Americans rallied for a 3-2 win be- hind Wisconsin natives Amanda Kessel, Brianna Decker and Jesse Vetter. By scoring the game-winning goal, Kessel, a Madison product, capped an extraordinary personal run in which she led Minnesota to an NCAA title and perfect sea- son and won the Patty Kazmeier Award. Decker, who won the Kazmeier Award last season while skating for the Badgers, was named to the media’s all-star team in Ottawa af- ter accounting for six goals, tying for the most in the tournament. While they were rivals during their WCHA careers, Kessel and Decker skated on the same line for Team USA as they once had at Shattuck-St. Mary’s (Minn.) be- ANDRE RINGUETTE/HHOF-IIHF IMAGES 49 JANA CHYTILOVA/HHOF-IIHF IMAGES

Rigsby joined, from left, UW products Jessie Vetter, Brianna Decker, Hilary Knight and Meghan Duggan in leading the U.S. to gold.

so relaxed all the time,’’ said Rigsby, one of two pics. Rigsby was 6 years old. “Obviously at that goalies backing up Vetter. The other was Brianne time, you don’t know the whole jist of it,’’ she said. McLaughlin, 25, who played at Robert Morris. “But I thought, ‘Yeah, I want to do that.’’’ “It was fun watching her (Vetter) play,’’ added As she grew older and more successful in the Rigsby, who felt like she got better every practice sport, she began addressing the reality. “It has because “you’re competing as hard as you can’’ been my drive throughout the years,’’ she said. “It’s knowing the “best players are shooting on you.’’ always kind of right there (on her mind).’’ Rigsby is hoping to apply what she learned on Now she can see the prize. “The biggest thing you the national team to her preparation for the U.S. have to do,’’ she said, “is go into the tryouts know- Olympic tryouts in June at Lake Placid. By then, ing you’ve done everything you can to put yourself she definitely wants to be playing her best hockey in the best position (to make the team). in the pursuit of a coveted berth on Team USA for “If they take you,’’ Rigsby rationalized, “then the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia (Feb. they take you. But there are no guarantees and you 7-23). don’t want to give them a reason to doubt you in Three goaltenders will make the final cut. In any way.’’ 2010, it was Vetter, McLaughlin and Molly Schaus, Johnson has no doubts about Rigsby’s qualifi- who played at Boston College. “There are four of cations. “I hope she makes the Olympic team. It us in the mix,’’ said Rigsby, noting Schaus, 24, is would be a great experience,’’ he said. “Everything expected to be a part of the competition in Lake looks right now like she’s going to be a part of it.’’ Placid. “Hopefully, I can slide into a (roster) slot.’’ Regarding the Olympic dream, he said, “For a lot Women’s hockey first surfaced in the 1998 Olym- of our players that’s their dream, that’s what they

50 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013 Johnson has no doubts about Rigs- by’s qualifications. “I hope she makes the Olympic team. It would be a great experience,’’ he said. push for, that’s what they work hard for and, hopefully, it’s right around the “Everything looks right now like corner for her.’’ she’s going to be a part of it.’’ It’s that type of selfless attitude that has always endeared Johnson to his players. “He always has your back all be not only for Alex, but certainly for her family.’’ the way through,’’ said Rigsby. “He’s always push- Rigsby’s mom and dad, Nancy and Tim, were in ing us to reach our dreams.’’ Ottawa for the world championships. If Rigsby makes the Olympic team, it would be “It was awesome for them to come and support a significant loss for the Badgers. Over the last me even though I wasn’t dressing for all the games,’’ three seasons, Rigsby has posted a 83-16-6 record said Rigsby, who was in uniform for three of the ― eight wins shy of Vetter’s school record. five games, including the gold-medal contest. “We’re a lot better team with her in the nets; she Conceding she was “kind of along for the ride’’ gives you a chance to win every night,’’ Johnson and “seeing what it was all about’’ as a backup goal- said of Rigsby. “But that’s part of what we do (at tender, she was delighted that her parents accom- Wisconsin). panied her on that ride. “It was huge,’’ she said. “If we don’t have her for the year, it won’t be as Particularly since Nancy Rigsby is now cancer- easy as if we had her. But it will still put a smile on free. my face (if she’s on the Olympic team). “She’s a tough lady,’’ Alex Rigsby said with a deep “It’s the same thing that I’ve experienced as a sigh, “and she got through it.’’ player and a coach, so I know how special it would ● ● ● ●

51 Nancy and Alex Rigsby

hen she got the news in August, cause my mom didn’t necessarily know what type of Alex Rigsby was upset because treatment she was going to be going through. Wait- she was the last to know. After ing for those doctor appointments to figure out ev- being diagnosed with breast can- erything was hard.’’ cer, Nancy Rigsby didn’t want to After her mother eventually underwent a double Wdo anything that might distract her daughter, who mastectomy, she admitted, “She had all her major was on the U.S. Under-22 national team and train- surgeries after our last series in December (on Dec. ing in Calgary for a challenge series with Canada. 8-9 against North Dakota) and that was my emo- “I was so mad,’’ said Alex Rigsby, who has two tional tipping point. Everything went well and she brothers, Zach and Chase. “At first, it was like, ‘How has been on the rise since.’’ can you not tell me?’ At the same time, I knew it was Rigsby helped lead the Badgers to a sweep that so typical of my mom ― she’s always looking out for weekend. As a tribute to her mom, the UW players me and wanting the best for me.’’ were each wearing helmets that had been adorned Once it began to sink in, Alex Rigsby said, “The with pink breast cancer ribbon stickers. first couple of weeks were definitely the hardest be- “My teammates were awesome,’’ said Rigsby.

52 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013 Nancy and Alex Rigsby “They were always checking up on me and asking student getting that kind of news at the beginning how my mom was doing. Everyone was really sup- of a season, it’s going to be hard because of all of portive.’’ the things that are going through your mind. You When feasible, she drove home on weekends. always think the worst if it’s a mother or father. Otherwise, she didn’t deviate from the routine. “I “But I thought she handled it exceptionally well didn’t miss any practices,’’ she said. “My mom was with practices and games. I give her a lot of credit like, ‘You’ve got to do what you’ve got to do.’’’ for not really allowing it to affect her play on the Mark Johnson, who did what he had to do, had ice. Everybody wants to win, but a part of being a an idea of what Rigsby was going through. college coach is helping your players deal with life. “I know there were some days that were hard on “We’re not sure what’s going to come down our her,’’ he said. “You can imagine any young college path or our player’s paths tomorrow, so when

54 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013 it does ― and you have experience in this area ― about Harding’s mom. “When she first told me, it’s you’re going to treat people the way they need to be just one of those things that you don’t ever want to treated. Obviously she also was going to be getting hear from anyone,’’ she said. “I told her if, ‘If you support from her teammates.’’ need anything come to me’ because obviously I’ve As fate would have it, one of Rigsby’s teammates been going through this with my mom.’’ ― freshman Kaitlyn Harding ― had to deal with a Johnson can relate to his players and adversity similar situation with her mother in January. “She on many fronts. On Aug. 31, 1991, he was playing ended up missing a road trip and going home (An- professionally in Austria when he got a phone call chorage, Alaska),’’ Johnson said. “Life and family at 4 a.m. “They told me that my dad was in sur- are more important than a practice or a game.’’ gery,’’ he said, “and he was getting his brain oper- Rigsby was almost speechless when she learned ated on. That’s all I knew.’’ Bob Johnson, who had led the Pitts- burgh Penguins to the Stanley Cup the previous season, had undergone emer- gency surgery to remove a brain tumor. Johnson had experienced stroke-like symptoms while readying Team USA for the start of the Canada Cup tourna- ment. It took Mark Johnson 24 hours to get from Austria to Pittsburgh. “It was a long travel day and I had no idea what I was going to walk into,’’ he recalled. “Once I landed and I took a cab from the airport to the hospital, I didn’t know if he was going to be alive or whatever.’’ When he walked into his father’s room, he saw Chris Chelios, Gary Suter and Pat LaFontaine, who were all play-

“I know there were some days that were hard on her,’’ Johnson said. “You can imagine any young college stu- dent getting that kind of news at the beginning of a season, it’s going to be hard because of all of the things that are go- ing through your mind.” DAVID STLUKA

55 “The biggest thing overall is that you can’t get up- set about little things in life. There are far bigger things,” Rigsby said. “It’s been a long year, and I’m definitely stronger. You grow a lot from it and I’m excited for what’s ahead.’’ ing on Team USA. “My dad’s right side is par- alyzed but he’s writing on a yellow legal pad what he wanted them to do at practice that day,’’ Johnson recounted. “He’s getting these guys all fired up for a practice and I’m thinking, ‘You gotta be kid- ding me? I’ve been worrying for the last 24 hours about him and I walked into that,’’’ said Johnson, chuckling at a vintage recollection of Badger Bob being Badger Bob. Less than three months later, Bob Johnson lost his battle. He was 60. Not all emergencies are life and death. “But we’ve always made it aware to our players,’’ Johnson said, “whether it’s at the beginning of the season, the middle of the season, or end of the season, if something comes up, we’re flex- ible.’’ Such personal ordeals can be instructive, especially if they lead to positive introspection. “Did I grow up?’’ Rigsby posed rhetorically. “The biggest thing overall is that you can’t get upset about little things in life. There are far bigger things.’’ Reflecting on Nancy Rigsby’s determination and courage, she said, “My mom was so posi- tive throughout, she kept saying, ‘I’m going to beat this cancer.’’’ So did she grow up? “It’s been a long year, and I’m definitely stronger,’’ Alex Rigsby said confidently. “You grow a lot from it and I’m excited for what’s ahead.’’ DAVID STLUKA

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INSIDE FOOTBALL BY BRIAN MASON @BadgerFootball

SPRING GAME SCHEDULE Saturday, April 20 Badger Kids’ Fair 2-4 p.m. Free McClain Center Spring Game 4 p.m. Tickets: $5 Camp Randall

the teams numerous ways to score. The teams are divided on an of- fense-versus-defense basis, but the scoring will be anything but slanted toward the offense. While the offensive unit (White) can score in conventional ways like touchdowns and field goals, it will also tally points for runs of 15-plus yards (2 points), passes of 20-plus yards (2) and first downs (1). Conversely, the defense (Cardinal) will be rewarded for turnovers (5 points), three-and-outs (3), blocked field goals (3), stopped drives (2), sacks (2) and tackles-for-loss (2). That’s in addition to the standard six points available for a defensive TD. Keeping score Saturday Then there are the points UW stu- dents competing in various on-field means keeping up contests can score for the two squads. Expect points to be plentiful in Spring Game It should make for an interesting close to spring practice.

ans that turn out to a larger LED display in time Badger Kids’ Fair set for 2 p.m. FCamp Randall Sta- for kickoff this fall — could » Prior to the Spring Game, UW will dium for Saturday’s 2013 keep up with the parade of hold its annual Badger Kids’ Fair, Wisconsin Football Spring points likely to come out of presented by First Choice Dental Game will notice at least Saturday’s clash between the and UW Health, from 2-4 p.m. one major change — the Cardinal and White. in the McClain Center, adjacent lack of a scoreboard above First-year head coach to the stadium. The free event in- the north end zone. Gary Andersen has insti- cludes interactive games, displays, Of course, there’s no tell- tuted a scoring system that autographs, photos with Bucky ing if the old scoreboard — should ramp up each side’s and UW student-athletes and a which is being replaced with point production by giving number of athletic skills stations.

58 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013

INSIDE SOFTBALL BY ANNA POULTER-HENDRICKSON @BadgerSoftball

SCHEDULE (30-9, 7-5) This Week Friday Ohio State 6 p.m. Saturday Ohio State 1 p.m. Sunday Ohio State 1 p.m. Wednesday Northwestern 3/5 p.m.

Next Week April 26 at Indiana 5 p.m. April 27 at Indiana Noon April 28 at Indiana Noon

learn how to win the series,” she said. “That’s what we’re doing.” For UW, the ability to put together back-to-back wins against ranked opponents is going to play a large role in its postseason success. The Big Ten tournament is single elimi- nation with the winner automatically qualifing for the NCAA tournament. The process continues in NCAA regionals ― a four-team, double- elimination tournament ― with the winning team advancing to Super Regionals. UW is laying the foundation for Badgers putting pieces success in the postseason now, but it is a process the team ― and fans ― in place for postseason can’t get too worked up about. UW looking to take program to next level “Everybody is anxious,” said Healy. “They want to be the top 25 team now. We’re hovering. We’re a ith the team off to a taking back-to-back games top 30 team, and that’s a huge im- Wprogram-best 30-9 against a ranked team. provement.” start, everyone is looking for UW went on the road last All three of the seasons Healy has instant gratification. But as week and posted a win over put together at UW have been huge head coach Yvette Healy put then-No. 22-ranked Nebras- improvements. With its win over it, “you’ve got to be able to ka, but was unable to claim Green Bay on Tuesday, UW has now crawl before you can walk.” the series. recorded 30-plus wins in each of Wisconsin has earned It is a learning process Healy’s three seasons, a feat never wins over ranked opponents, that Healy is focused on im- before achieved. now the next step is putting proving. “You’ve got to learn Wisconsin has mastered the crawl all of the pieces in place and how to win one before you and is now poised to sprint.

60 » VARSITY APRIL 18, 2013

THIS WEEK IN BADGER HISTORY

Pat Harder was named first team All-American by the All-American Board in 1942.

April 19, 1944 Draft day decisions Chosen second overall by the Chicago Cardinals, Pat Harder became the highest Badger ever selected in the NFL draft, a mark that stood until Alan Ameche was taken second by the Baltimore Colts in the 1955 draft.

April 18, 1957 TRIPLE THE FUN: John DeMerit, of the baseball team, posted three triples in a game against Arizona State.

April 20, 1997 ALSO GETTING THE CALL: Wisconsin continued its NFL draft history with three players getting a call. Jerry Wunsch (Tampa Bay - 2nd round), Pete Monty (New York Giants THIS - 4th round) and Tarek Saleh (Carolina - 4th round) all etched their names into the WEEK history books. April 20, 2010 CHAMPIONSHIP LOW: Women’s golf set a school record 72-hole score of 1,194 at the Big Ten championships in Madison. Junior Carly Werwie tied the individual 72- hole school record with a 296.

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