The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
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OLYMPIC SPORTS play at our highest level regardless of who we're playing. The mentality can become, 'Hey, we're No. 1, we can't lose,' and that's a really poor way to approach an opponent. "We just preach to our kids to stay even and consistent. Don't get too high when things are going well and don't get too down when things don't go well. I think that gives us our best chance to be our best selves." That approach got tested imme‑ diately after Michigan earned the top ranking. In the Wolverines' next game, on the road at Nebraska April 8, they dropped a 1‑0 decision. Hutchins' team rebounded to win the next two contests with the Cornhusk‑ ers, 4‑1 and 8‑6, to improve to 29‑4 overall and 7‑2 in the Big Ten. "We try not to pay attention to the ranking," junior infielder Abby Ramirez said prior to the road trip to Lincoln. "Hutch always tells us that the ranking that means the most is the one you have at the end of the season. It's pretty cool to see us at No. 1, but at the same time it's a long season and we still need to take care of business." Moving forward, Hutchins and her club will square off against Big Ten opponents only, aside from one game against Central Michigan April 27. "We've got our work cut out for us," the coach said. "Ohio State is playing very well, and they have a great pitching staff. Every weekend is a challenge. "I have been really pleased with the approach and hunger during each game. Winning can make you soft. You have to stay hungry and compelled, and that's our goal. "It can be difficult at times, but so far this year this team has done that. There's nothing to be satisfied about in April, and this team believes that." WATER POLO SITTING PRETTY AND CONFIDENT As of April 12, the women's water polo team at Michigan was sitting at No. 8 in the country and possessed a 22‑6 overall record after competing against some of the top teams out west. Head coach Dr. Marcelo Leon‑ ardi was pleased with his team and may even be a bit surprised. "I think our season has been really good so far," he said. "I expected us to be in contention for having the record that we have and for being ranked pretty high. "I feel we've overachieved a little bit this year in terms of certain wins that we've gotten. It's almost as if they've surpassed my expectations in terms of where we're at now." One reason for his team's early success is the newfound emphasis and execution on defense. Senior goalkeeper Julia Campbell gets to see the defense in action closer than anybody and knows the product in the pool is performing well. "As a goalie, it's nice that I can see the whole playing field," Campbell said. "One of my biggest responsibil‑ ities is communicating with my de‑ fense and letting them know where they should be. That's something I've seen a lot this year — there's a higher level of awareness this year and it