The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/144506
his one and only job is to sell Beilein and the program he represents. He and his fellow assistants share the same values and have meshed into one of the country's top staffs, both teaching and recruiting. He's so entrenched that when his opportunity does come up — and it will — he's not sure he'll be in a hurry to leave. "This staff is going to be around for seasons to come," he tweeted after it was determined Jordan would stay, something he genuinely believes. "Michigan is the reason I feel that way," he said. "I always say an individual can't make the University of Michigan, but Michigan can make you. The years of tradition and excellence that have taken place on and off the field — if you're wiling to grow, learn, evolve and develop, that bodes well for future opportunities. Michigan is home for a guy like me and LaVall, and boy it would be an honor to represent this university for Alexander's unique motivational tactics include putting a Pringles crisp on each player's shoulder to enourage them to play with a chip. photo by per kjeldsen years to come." If they continue on their current path — and there are no signs of letting up — they'll likely be able to call Ann Arbor home as long as they wish. ❏ Top 10 Assistant Coaches At Michigan Fred Jackson — Football: The longest-tenured assistant coach on campus at 22 years (and counting), Jackson has coached some of the best running backs in school history, including Tyrone Wheatley (1991-94), Tshimanga Biakabutuka (1993-95), Anthony Thomas (1997-2000), Chris Perry (2000-03) and Mike Hart (2004-07). Jackson is so respected that he has survived three head coaching changes. Bonnie Tholl — Softball: Michigan's first base coach, Tholl has mentored six All-American outfielders during her 20 seasons in Ann Arbor, with 13 outfielders combining for 27 All-Big Ten selections. Also in charge of recruiting, Tholl has helped U-M to 10 Women's College World Series appearances and the 2005 national title. Billy Powers — Ice Hockey: A former Wolverine (1989-90), Powers completed his 20th year in 2012-13. He has been critical to the success of the Wolverines' program, serving as one of U-M's top recruiters. Also in charge of the defensive