The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/859588
SEPTEMBER 2017 THE WOLVERINE 11 INSIDE MICHIGAN ATHLETICS Fifth-year senior linebacker Mike McCray will be one of the few experi- enced veterans on Michigan's roster this fall, and as a result he will be tasked with providing leadership for the younger players on the team. McCray spoke about some of those youngsters, along with several other topics while at Big Ten Media Days in Chicago: The Wolverine: What are some of your per- sonal goals for this up- coming season? Mike McCray: "Just to help my team win. We all want a championship, and I'm in my last year so I want to go out on a good note. I want to help lead this team as much as pos- sible, so that's my main personal goal." The Wolverine: Who are some of the young players on the team that are standing out to you so far? McCray: "I would say [junior safety] Tyree [Kinnel], although he's not really that young anymore. [Sophomore safety] Josh Metellus, [sophomore cornerback] Lavert Hill and [sopho- more cornerback] David Long are some others. "[Redshirt junior defen- sive end] Chase Winovich is also one of my favor- ites, because he doesn't get tired and doesn't care what people say about him — he just does what he does day in and day out." The Wolverine: How much would it mean to you to be named a team captain? McCray: "It would mean a lot. It's kind of crazy to think about, because my dad became a captain when he was playing his fifth year [at Ohio State], and I could potentially do the same thing. "It'd be an honor to not only be a captain, but to represent the Univer- sity of Michigan — one of the greatest schools ever." The Wolverine: You obviously dealt with injuries earlier in your career; how hard was it not being able to play? McCray: "It was really hard. Just watching my teammates and my friends out there, having fun and play- ing together was tough. I wouldn't take it back for anything, though, because it made me a better person. I've grown because of it." The Wolverine: How excited are you for the season? McCray: "I'm really excited. I'm ready to go and can't wait." The Wolverine: What has to happen this year for you to deem it a success? McCray: "I want to win a Big Ten championship. I wouldn't consider it a disappointment if we don't, but my first goal is to win a championship." — Austin Fox McCray was named All-Big Ten honorable mention by the media and coaches last year after totaling 76 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks and two interceptions. PHOTO COURTESY MICHIGAN ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS Sitting Down With Fifth-Year Senior Linebacker Mike McCray PACKAGES AS LOW AS $369 PER PERSON Special game packages include: • Two-nights hotel • Game ticket • Transportation to/from game • Access to Gridiron Trips Pre- game Tailgate Party (includes free BBQ and open bar) Call 303-359-5328 or visit GridironTrips.com and click on "Featured Games" BE THERE to see the Wolverines vs. Florida Gators on Sept. 2nd in Arlington, TX