The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/432566
FROM OUR READERS academic institutions in the world. I know I don't have to tell you that the University of Michigan has a long history of excellence, not only in its unparalleled accomplish- ments in academics, but also in its longstanding traditions and stellar record on the athletic field. As a University, we truly are "The Leaders and the Best" and have proven it for over 150 years. With the largest alumni associa- tion in the world, academics has always been number one, but it cannot be separated from the pride alumni feel from the excellence we have become accustomed to on the athletic field. I hope that you embrace this part of the University and move to re- pair the damage that has occurred to our beloved football program over the last 10 years. Football, "The Big House" and the winged helmet are symbols of a winning tradition that is widely acclaimed in college sports. It has been a source of pride to the huge alumni fan base as well as others throughout the country. It affects alumni giving and it is exceedingly disturbing that the pro- gram has fallen so far, so fast! As President, you will oversee the direction of the University over the next decade. I hope that Michigan sports will not take a back seat in your future plans going forward. This is a serious period of instabil- ity in the athletic department, most notably with football. It will take quick, wise and decisive leadership to "right the ship!" It would truly not serve the Uni- versity well if a major attempt was not made to regain "The Michigan Difference" on the football field. I am positive you have already heard this from the Michigan family and hope you will take this considerable challenge very seriously! Tom Bacon Hanover, N.H. He's heard from plenty, Tom, and acted to install Jim Hackett as interim athletic director. The other shoe had yet to drop at press time, but it won't be long. ❏ University of Michigan president Mark Schlissel has received a great deal of input about what a source of pride the school's athletics can be for students and alumni. PHOTO COURTESY MICHIGAN PHOTOGRAPHY