'M' tradition entices

'Very balanced team' helps Blue in building dynasty

A common phrase at Michigan - "the Leaders and Best" - is an accurate description of the Michigan women's track and field team.

The Wolverines have finished in the top three in the Big Ten Track and Field Championships, both indoor and outdoor, for the past five years.

What has made this team so successful for so long? Is it the shoes?

Well, maybe it's the coaching.

FILE PHOTO The Michigan women's track team has run to success in recent years under the direction of coach James Henry.

James Henry has been Michigan's coach during its run, so he deserves credit.

Maybe it's the unconditional support of the die-hard fans - well, maybe not.

It is hard to pin down exactly what has made the team such a consistent conference power.

Elizabeth Kampfe, Michigan's all-American in the 3,000 meters, said the team's success has been due to the "experience we've gained.

"We pass on our experience to the freshmen," Kampfe said. "What we've done is use the success of one or two athletes to make everyone successful."

This winning tradition is what convinced Kampfe to choose Michigan in the first place.

"The success of the running program" attracted her, Kampfe said. "They were always placing at the NCAA's. There's always someone good to train with, and the competitive environment helps athletes develop."

Like Kampfe, senior Katie McGregor has had a solid career at Michigan. She echoed many of Kampfe's sentiments, seeing Michigan as a great place to learn from the best.

"The older athletes give the younger athletes goals to go for," McGregor said. "And the loss of someone like Tania Longe (decathlon) has allowed some of the younger members to step up."

Words couldn't describe some of what brought McGregor to Ann Arbor.

"It was just a feeling I got when I visited here," McGregor said. "I liked the whole atmosphere. The team and coaches seemed like nice people to be around."

Distance coach Mike McGuire emphasized that Michigan "has a very balanced team. We have a legitimate shot to score in every event."

McGuire also commended the team for its work ethic, especially middle distance runners Sara Hamilton and Adrienne Hunter.

It seems as though there isn't one all-encompassing reason why Michigan women's track and field is a perennial Big Ten contender.

But the mix has worked so far, and if it continues, expect the Wolverines to be among the "leaders and best" in the Big Ten for years to come.

02-02-99