Sept. 10, 2014 
As we kick off another year of Michigan Athletics, we wanted to know -- what do University of Michigan student-athletes value most? Together with the Office of Student-Athlete Alumni Engagement, MGoBlue.com surveyed current and former student-athletes and asked them for their direct input. Starting on Monday (Sept. 1), MGoBlue.com will release the 10 most important values, with one being highlighted each weekday through Friday, Sept. 12. Join in the conversation on Twitter using #MyMichigan.
Wednesday, Sept. 10 -- Tradition
"The Victors." Maize and Blue. Bo. The rich tradition of the University of Michigan is not confined to one person or one team, but to all. For more than a century, men and women have helped build the Michigan tradition to what it is today -- a worldwide symbol of excellence. When our student-athletes first step foot on campus, they become part of that tradition and never let it go even after they leave.
Being a student-athlete is all about
being a small part of something much larger than yourself. No single athlete or sport or season can fully capture the essence of Michigan. Michigan Athletics is instead defined by all the teams dating back to the creation of the first varsity team in 1865 who have relentlessly strived to make Michigan Athletics the Leaders and Best in every way.
Chris Douville
Men's Swimming & Diving // 2009-11
Tradition is the history behind Michigan Athletics. The legacy that the alums have paved for us has led us to unthinkable options, love and support from all the fans, and
it is our duty to continue on the tradition. As head coach
Carol Hutchins always says, "Leave the program better than you found it."
I transferred to the University of Michigan to be part of something special. From the tradition to the training facilities, I wanted to be part of it all. Each day through my professional career, being part of the Michigan family and
winning a championship together is what means the most to me.
Justin Meram
Men's Soccer // 2009-10
Michigan is all about tradition and history. All of the teams here have a remarkable sense of who they are and what they stand for. As a member of the women's lacrosse team, it continues to be an especially unique experience being around such rich history and tradition because
we are in the midst of creating our own.
Kelly Kubach
Women's Lacrosse // Sophomore
Tradition is what makes this place so special. It makes us feel a part of something greater than ourselves, as if we are all one big family. Without tradition, there would be no pride in our school. Michigan pride stays with us forever and instills the honor of wearing the block M.
Sachi Sugiyama
Women's Gymnastics // Senior
I value the traditions that have formed throughout
Michigan's remarkable history. It is important to remember where our university and our program have come from, and who has come before us. I value the tradition that brought together our water polo program and I value my teammates who have pushed me to become who I am today. My teammates have become my friends who in turn have become my Michigan family, forever bonded through our shared experiences as Wolverines.
Meagan Cobb
Water Polo // 2009-12
I love walking into Canham Natatorium and looking at the many records displayed near the pool. These records come with so many memories of teammates now and ones that have come before me. There are stories behind those records and the traditions swimmers have come to share which make us the team that we are today. This tradition is comprised of team spirit, great swimmers and knowledgeable coaches. Our swimming and diving teams are deep-seeded in tradition.
Those before us set the standard that others wish they could achieve. Being a swimmer makes one realize what it is truly like to be a Wolverine and I will forever hold the "GO BLUE!" close to my heart.
Ali DeLoof
Women's Swimming & Diving // Junior
The
ultimate in Michigan pride is joining the Michigan Marching Band in a rousing chorus of "The Victors." Whether it be with 109,901 or just one, it flat out fires me up and is without a doubt, "the greatest college fight song ever written." Sing it loud and proud every chance you get because that's the only way!
Andy Matthews
Men's Golf // 1999-2002
• Day 1: Training
• Day 2: Competition
• Day 3: Facilities
• Day 4: Winning
• Day 5: Community Service
• Day 6: Unique Experiences
• Day 7: Leadership and Personal Growth
