Sept. 12, 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.
Friday, Sept. 12 -- The Team
It's what we fight for. Many years ago, one man showed us that by working together as one unit -- one team -- great things are possible. It's an ideology that has since been adopted by all our student-athletes here at the University of Michigan: The Team, The Team, The Team.
Being part of something that is bigger than yourself is an invaluable experience. I was
proud to compete for the M on my chest, not the name on my back.
Thomas Kelley
Men's Gymnastics // 2008-11
It's so cliché, but until you're a part of it, you really don't know what Bo's words mean. At a university of 25,000 undergraduates, there are 29 other girls who know exactly what you're going through. They understand preseason, the competition and the idea that a win and a loss mean more than just that. But even off the field, there are 29 girls who serve as a support system. When one of us struggles, we all struggle.
We have such special experiences together. The players that come before you and the ones that are with you aren't only your teammates but they're your mentors, your leaders, and your best friends.
Zaryn Jennings
Women's Soccer // Senior
The Team is the entity which determines every outcome. Setting aside everything else and focusing on the team goal creates experiences that can be carried outside of athletics. The Team is built into the foundation and fabric of what is important in Michigan Athletics.
Through The Team, magical things can happen.
Peter Vanderkaay
Men's Swimming & Diving // 2003-06
The people I met during my time at Michigan are
bonded to me for a lifetime. Some were friends for the moments back then, some are friends I have not yet even met, and some will be friends forever.
Bridget Venturi Veenema
Softball // 1985-88
Women's Basketball // 1989
My experience showed me all the joy of truly being part of a team. The rowing team and the School of Art and Design became families for me. In both groups, we worked together to become better, to learn new skills and to do something that hadn't been done before. At Michigan, I wanted to push my boundaries to push the team. I wanted to continue redefining my better as the new best. This determination and pride in yourself and in Michigan will always stay with you. Everywhere I go, from Princeton to the World Championships in South Korea, I hear "Go Blue!" from complete strangers.
The Team transcends all boundaries. It's love!
Prior to joining the wrestling team, I had never experienced being a part of such a special, close-knit group of guys, and I haven't had this experience again since. The memories we built working out together, studying together, traveling together, winning together and losing together created a
unique camaraderie unlike anything else. Many of us have remained close friends and often relive the great memories we built together while competing for Michigan when we all get together. Those four years of being part of a Michigan team were so special and by far worth all the sacrifices to be privileged enough to wear the block M. I will always remember our team, and I am forever grateful to have been a part of it.
Eric Tannenbaum
Wrestling // 2004-08
I've learned throughout the past three years here at Michigan that Bo's famous saying doesn't just apply to the football team. As I stood on the field to perform in my first football game at the Big House and took in the sound as the crowd sang the national anthem, I realized that nothing could describe Michigan better. There is a sense of
family, power, integrity and accomplishment when you bring so many people with such great talent together. We truly are the team of leaders and the best!
Kendal Zemmin
Dance // Senior
I don't think it's ever been about one person at Michigan, no matter what sport you're in. I think
the team is stressed no matter where you are on this campus, even with the sports that have more of an individual component to it.
Desmond Morgan
Football // Senior
• 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
• Day 8: Tradition
• Day 9: Academics
