In with the old

The old saying goes, "all good things must come to an end." For some of Michigan's greatest and most memorable players, they just couldn't quite cut the ties that bind. The ties that bind them to former teammates, their former coaches, their former field and their former university are just too strong for them to completely let go.
In light of National Signing Day quickly approaching, and an outstanding recruiting class set to make it official on Wednesday, February 5th, I've been reflecting on all the Michigan greats from years past. I'm sure the connections that former players keep with their school is not unique to Michigan, but it warms my heart to know the bond goes much beyond the player's eligibility years. What follows are just a few that came to mind:

• The long-haired, 80's-hair-band-looking guy that can often be seen behind the coach during post-game on-field interviews is Steve Everitt. He played center for Michigan in the early 90's and has become a favorite among students and fans because of his photobombing and love for Michigan.  Might I add, he is also a very talented artist, with drawing being his favorite.
• Tom Brady returned this past year to give an inspirational speech to the current players. Now, it's no secret that Tom hasn't maintained that relationship with Michigan since he left, but it has been restored and for that, I am thankful, and inspired, by his love for Michigan.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sfnGtG-R6xI

• Brian Griese, Steve Hutchinson and Charles Woodson host an annual golf outing full of weekend-long festivities called "Champions for Children's Hearts", to raise money for C.S. Mott Children's hospital.

http://www.annarbor.com/news/celebrity-fundraiser-for-cs-mott-childrens-hospital/

• David Brandon, former player for Bo Schembechler, is the current Athletic Director.
• Jim Brandstatter now hosts Inside Michigan Football and is a color-commentator for Michigan football on the radio. 

The list goes on and on of former players that return to their alma mater to give back and stay connected to the university that taught and gave them so much. 


“The essence of Michigan football lies not in the bodies of those magnificent players who bravely take the field each Saturday in the fall. It lives proudly, rather in the spirit of all the players, all the coaches, all the cheerleaders, all the band, all the students, all the alumni and all the fans.” − Coach Schembechler.


My Pick 6 favorite former players:
1. Jordan Kovacs----I named my dog after him
2. Ernest Shazor
3. Charles Woodson
4. Brandon Graham
5. Tshimanga "Tim" Biakabutuka
6. Tai Streets


Go Blue!
~Bekki