SPRING FOOTBALL
Bielema can't wait to see how the pieces to the puzzle will begin to fall into place with key personnel and a re- tooled coaching staff: "What's our number one priority this spring? We want to get the 'Wisconsin way' established.''
After winning at least 10 games for the third consecutive season — to go along with back- to-back Big Ten titles and trips to Pasadena — Bielema can't wait to see how the pieces to the puzzle will begin to fall into place both on and off the field with key personnel and a retooled coaching staff. "What's our number one priority this spring?''
he said repeating an oft-heard question. "The biggest thing, with the transition that we've had on our staff, is to be able to get the new coaches locked-in about the way we do things; the way we start and the way we finish every drill and practice. "We want to get the 'Wisconsin way' estab- lished.''
Bielema couldn't be happier with his mix of coaches especially "since we've been locked-in now for eight weeks." Monday, he huddled with the offensive assistants and "we went over the first two practices minute by minute.'' Tuesday, he went over the same things with the defensive staff.
"We talked about all the little things that are
huge in figuring out how to win football games down the road,'' said Bielema, whose remain- ing holdovers are running backs coach Thomas Hammock, now also the recruiting coordinator; and co-defensive coordinators Charlie Partridge and Chris Ash. Each of his new hires will bring their own personality to the meeting room, and practice field; ranging from Matt Canada (offensive coor- dinator) to Eddie Faulkner (tight ends) to Mike Markuson (O-line) to Zach Azzanni (wide receiv- ers) to Andy Buh (linebackers) to Ben Strickland
36 » VARSITY MARCH 22, 2012
DAVID STLUKA
