The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/315684
"We're graduating one of the most successful senior classes in our program's history, and while that entire group is irreplaceable, there's going to be a fierce competition to fill the spots that they held. "We expect several of these players to make an immediate impact and add to the culture that we've built here at Michigan." Softball: Legendary Michigan women's softball coach Carol Hutchins will add four really good players to her team next season, and all four can contribute in many different ways. Pitcher Tera Blanco (No. 3) and infielder Amanda Vargas (No. 100) are both top-100 players according to StudentSports.com, while first baseman Aidan Falk and infielder Taylor Swearingen are noted power hitters. "We are very excited about the potential of this group and the athleticism they will bring to Michigan," Hutchins said. "Each is a multi-dimensional player that can contribute in many different ways. "We also look for women who will fit our culture and the rigors of Michigan. We are looking forward to getting them on campus next fall and helping them develop." Swimming and Diving: The Wolverines hauled in five of the top 50 swimmers in the nation, according to CollegeSwimming.com. The Wolverines' top signee is Kutztown, Pa., native Gillian Ryan, who Col- legeSwimming.com ranks No. 4 nationally. She is also a member of the U.S. National Swim Team. Clara Smiddy is listed as the No. 10 recruit in the country, while Hannah Moore is No. 17, Carolyn McCann is No. 38 and Emily Kopas is No. 48. "We believe this is one of the top incoming classes in the nation," head coach Mike Bottom said. "This is a group of young women that showcase potential as students and athletes for the University of Michigan. They have all achieved high levels individually, and we believe they will fit well into Michigan's culture of swimming. "We are excited to bring them on campus next fall and help them grow into examples of Michigan women, the leaders and best." Tennis: The class only has two players in it, but it's about quality rather than quantity. Head coach Ronni Bernstein is bringing in two blue-chip recruits — Birmingham, Mich., native Alex Najarian and Denver product Mira Ruder-Hook are each ranked as the No. 1 recruit in their home state by TennisRecruiting.net, and are both top-25 recruits nationally. Najarian rated No. 7 nationally, while Ruder-Hook is listed as the No. 25 prospect in the land. "We are really excited about the addition of Mira to our program," Bernstein said. "When she and her family visited, we knew she would be a great fit with our team. "Mira will bring great enthusiasm and a strong work ethic both on and off the court. We look forward to her arrival next year." — Branden Hunter