Stampede Magazine

VOLUME: 8 • ISSUE: 4

2011-12 THE YEAR IN PHOTOS Q&A: GAIL

PEDERSON

DAVID GAGNE

RUNS WITH RALPHIE

LINDA LAPPE

COMES FULL CIRCLE

Letter from the

Athletic Director

VOLUME: 8 • ISSUE: 4 EDITORIAL DIRECTOR, BUFF CLUB Natalie A. Pigliacampo MANAGING EDITOR Doug Ottewill, Haas Rock Publications CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Pat Rooney Vanessa Hughes Daniel Mohrmann Marty Coffin Evans Nick Gerhardt

A

ART DIRECTION AND DESIGN Becky Antcliff

round this time last year, we were congratulating emma Coburn for her NCAA individual title in the women’s 3,000-meter steeplechase. It only seems appropriate to congratulate her once again, as well as Shalaya Kipp, for proudly representing team USA (and the Buffs) in track and field at the 2012 London Summer olympics. We hit a rare olympic double by sending two CU current studentathletes coached by mark Wetmore to the Games. We welcome these impressive young women to the prestigious group of University of Colorado olympians.

and every single student-athlete at the University of Colorado is made possible by your contribution to the Buff Club. Whether it is a voluntary contribution or a benefit seating donation made with your season tickets, every dollar provides the resources important to producing accomplished student-athletes. We have proven that our Buffs go on to be olympians, Ceos, community leaders, coaches, teachers and role models, each representing the Colorado Buffaloes with distinction.

IT IS PERFECT TIMING FOR THE ExHILARATING AND REFLECTIVE 2011-12 “YEAR IN PICTURES” ISSUE OF THE STAMPEDE TO REMIND US ALL OF ANOTHER GREAT YEAR OF COLORADO ATHLETICS. Mike Bohn

the olympic Games gave us all a chance to reflect on the unifying force and inspiration of sports and competition. for two weeks, the olympics captured the world’s attention, and soon, many of our teams will take the field or the court to invigorate young people and touch the hearts of our great Buffs Nation as we kick off our 2012-13 competitive year. It is perfect timing for the exhilarating and reflective 2011-12 “Year in Pictures” issue of The Stampede to remind us all of another great year of Colorado Athletics. We aspire to unite Buffs across the country to cheer on our student-athletes and coaches as they compete for titles and championships.

We trust you will enjoy this energized collection of photos. the success of each

thank you for your continued tremendous Shoulder to Shoulder support as an active Buff Club member. this year looks extremely bright for the Buffs because of people like you and your continued commitment to our teams and outstanding university. We look forward to joining you in filling the stands at all of our great venues this fall.

Go BUffS!

mike Bohn

PHOTOGRAPHERS CU Sports Information Chip Bromfield, Pro-Motion, Ltd. Getty Images Jathan Campbell Natalie Pigliacampo Tracy Ostrofsky ADVERTISING SALES Chris Dolge Casey Light Will McKinlay The Stampede is published and produced in association with: HAAS ROCK PUBLICATIONS, LLC PRESIDENT James Merilatt

PUBLISHER Doug Ottewill

PROOFREADERS Casey Light Chris Bianchi

The Stampede is published four times per year, as a 64-page quarterly.

Buff Club, 369 UCB, Boulder, CO 80309 BUFF CLUB 800.621.2833 Subscription rate for The Stampede is a gift for $100 or more per year to the Buff Club.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Buff Club, 369 UCB, Boulder, CO 80309 Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner without written permission is prohibited.

Copyright 2012 / All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S.A

THE STAMPEDE IS PROUDLY PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER

We want to hear from you! Comments regarding The Stampede can be directed to buffclub@cufund.org or 303-492-2200.

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STAMPEDE

Departments 06 12 64

IN FOCUS FOOtball SChedUle bUFFalO bIll

32 Q&a: GaIl PederSON 2

STAMPEDE

Features 16 20 26 38

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Profile: DaviD GaGne (ralPhie’s hanDler) Profile: The CUsPYs Profile: linDa laPPe (women’s baskeTball) Profile: Tom Garfinkle (Donor)

46 2011-12

The Year in PhoTos

STAMPEDE 6

THE YEAR IN PHOTOS

At the annual Rocky Mountain Showdown, the CU student section showed their support – loyalty that was rewarded with a 28-14 victory.

Photo by Chip Bromfield

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THE YEAR IN PHOTOS Holly Odneal gets out to a fast start, something a regional rival got to witness first hand.

Photo by Chip Bromfield

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THE YEAR IN PHOTOS

The 2011-12 school year will always be remembered as the year the Buffs charged into the Pac-12.

Photo by Chip Bromfield

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UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO

FOOTBALL SCHEDULE Join us for‌

aWaY Game eVentS!

Presented by the University of Colorado Boulder, the Alumni Association and CU Athletics

Hit the road with us this fall to cheer on the Buffs as they travel to Arizona, Washington State, Southern California and Oregon. Our spectacular festivities are the place to be before every Pac-12 away game and are a great way to connect with other Colorado alumni and fans. Tickets are $30 for adults and $20 for children and include a drink and a meal. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.colorado.edu/roadbuffs.

Date

OppOnent

time

tV

09.01

Colorado State (at Denver)

2:00 p.m.

FX

09.08

SacramentO State

1:00 p.m.

P12N

09.15

at Fresno State

6:00 p.m.

CBS-SN

09.22

* at Washington State

TBA

TBA

09.29

UcLa (Family Weekend)

TBA

TBA

10.06

BYE

10.11

* ariZOna State

7:00 p.m.

ESPN

10.20

* at Southern California

TBA

TBA

10.27

* at Oregon

TBA

TBA

11.03

* StanFOrD (Homecoming)

TBA

TBA

11.10

* at Arizona

TBA

TBA

11.17

* WaSHinGtOn (Veterans Day)

TBA

TBA

11.23

* UtaH (Senior Day)

1:00 p.m.

FOX/FX

11.30

#Pac-12 Championship Game

6:00 p.m.

FOX

*Pac-12 Conference Game; # at campus site of the division champion with the best overall conference record. HOME GAMES IN BOLD CAPS All times listed are Mountain Time zone; those listed as TBA are due to the Pac-12 television contracts, which allow for ABC/ESPN, the FOX networks: FOX, Fox Sports Net (FSN), FX and the Pac-12 Networks to decide on games and times up to 12 days prior to the game (and on occasion, six days prior).

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BUFF CLUB AND COLORADO ATHLETICS

FALL EVENTS CALENDAR For more information, please visit CUBuffs.com/events

AUGUST, 2012 30 24th Annual Boulder Chamber CU

OCTOBER, 2012 4 Buffalo Belles Coaches Luncheon

NOVEMBER, 2012 1 Buffalo Belles Coaches Luncheon

SEPTEMBER, 2012 4 Colorado Football Press Conference

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Colorado Football Luncheon – Denver Blake Street Tavern

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Colorado Football Luncheon – Denver Blake Street Tavern

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Colorado Football Buffs Nation Luncheon University Memorial Center – Boulder Campus

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Buffalo Belles Coaches Luncheon University Memorial Center – Boulder Campus

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42nd Annual University of Colorado Ski Ball University Memorial Center – Boulder Campus

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Colorado Football Press Conference Luncheon – Boulder Millennium Harvest House

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Colorado Football Press Conference Luncheon – Boulder Millennium Harvest House

Court Sport Preview Celebration Coors Events & Conference Center – Boulder Campus

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Buffalo Belles Coaches Luncheon University Memorial Center – Boulder Campus

Buffalo Belles Coaches Luncheon University Memorial Center – Boulder Campus

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University of Colorado Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Coors Events & Conference Center – Boulder Campus

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Colorado Football Luncheon – Denver Blake Street Tavern

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Colorado Football Buffs Nation Luncheon University Memorial Center – Boulder Campus

Kick-off Luncheon Balch Field House – Boulder Campus

Luncheon – Boulder Millennium Harvest House

6

Buffalo Belles Coaches Luncheon University Memorial Center – Boulder Campus

7

Colorado Football Luncheon – Denver Blake Street Tavern

13

Buffalo Belles Coaches Luncheon University Memorial Center – Boulder Campus

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Colorado Football Press Conference Luncheon – Boulder Millennium Harvest House

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Buffalo Belles Coaches Luncheon University Memorial Center – Boulder Campus

27 27

Buffalo Belles Coaches Luncheon University Memorial Center – Boulder Campus Parade of Buffs Presents Coach Mac’s Feast & Fix 1st Bank Center – Broomfield

University Memorial Center – Boulder Campus

16 18 25

Buffalo Belles Coaches Luncheon University Memorial Center – Boulder Campus

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Colorado Football Press Conference Luncheon – Boulder Millennium Harvest House

University Memorial Center - Boulder Campus

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STAMPEDE

HOW THE BUFFALOES ROAMED… …in London!

In total, CU Athletics was represented by five athletes in this summer’s Olympic Games. From start to finish, the Buffs were phenomenal. Here’s a snapshot of what they did and where they finished.

EMMA COBURN Women’s 3000m Steeplechase Final: 9th 9:23.54 sec Women’s 3000m Steeplechase Round 1 (#2): 3rd 9:27.51 sec

SHALAYA KIPP Women’s 3000m Steeplechase Round 1 (#1): 12th 9:48.33 sec

KARA GOUCHER Women’s Marathon: 11th 2:25:53 sec

DATHAN RITZENHEIN Men’s 10,000m Final: 13th 27:45.89 sec

JENNY SIMPSON Women’s 1500m Semifinals (#2): 12th 4:06.89 sec Women’s 1500m Round 1 (#2): 6th 4:13.81 sec

COMPLIANCE CORNER | DEFINING PROSPECTIVE STUDENT-ATHLETES Once a prospect signs with CU, it does not automatically make those prospects full‐fledged CU student‐athletes – yet.

Even though the prospects are locked into attending CU by signing their National Letter of Intent, they are still considered “prospective student‐athletes” by NCAA rules. Therefore, coaches must still adhere to recruiting rules, albeit loosened and less restrictive ones, when keeping in contact with these prospects.

boosters/donors must maintain the same rules as any other prospect that hasn’t yet signed with CU. Since these restrictions are already in place, these should be easy to remember.

Things boosters/donors have to remember regarding prospects who have signed with CU: •

Things coaches have to remember regarding • prospects who have signed with CU: • •

Dead periods are still in effect, so coaches cannot recruit or have contact with them off-campus.

If a prospect wants to visit CU unofficially after signing their NLI, they must still follow recruiting rules: o No expenses may be provided to the prospect or their family and friends. o Prospects cannot meet or mingle with CU fans, supporters or boosters. o Prospects cannot attend practice meetings that are closed to the public.

Although a prospect has signed with CU, 14

•

•

Boosters/donors are still prohibited from having any face-to-face contact with the signees.

Boosters/donors are still prohibited from contacting signees via social media, email or telephone.

Boosters/donors are still prohibited from providing gifts, extra benefits or services to signees and their family or friends.

Now, you’re asking yourself, at what point do the incoming student-athletes get rid of these restrictions and I can talk to them about how wonderful it is to be a Colorado Buffalo? These limits stay in place until one of three things happens: •

The prospect officially registers and enrolls as a full‐time student at CU. To satisfy this requirement, the student needs to begin school, not

•

simply sign‐up for classes.

The prospect participates in a regular practice or competition that occurs before the beginning of any term. For example, when football, soccer, volleyball or cross-country begins their season in August, their incoming prospects become full‐ fledged Buffs at the point they start “training camp” rather than when school starts.

The prospect officially registers and enrolls and attends classes during the summer prior to enrolling full‐time at CU.

As exciting as it is to have some wonderful new Buffs joining Buff Nation for next year, we need to remember their prospect status is still in effect until they meet one of the exceptions above. We appreciate your willingness to follow the rules and protect the eligibility of future Buffaloes!

Go Buffs!

Jill Gainey Associate Director of Compliance, Rules Education jillian.gainey@colorado.edu 303.492.6155

By Dave Plati

Come to Carelli’s for your PRE-GAME and POST-GAME hangout

STAMPEDE

STUDENT

PROFILE

DaviD GaGne

RUNNING WITH RALPHIE David Gagne scratched a competitive itch alongside Colorado’s favorite Buffalo

w

hen eSPn showed highlights of the CU football game against Southern Cal last november, the national audience didn’t know, or care, that the Buffs lost by 25.

The limelight focused on a third team on the field that day – the five handlers for Ralphie, CU’s own live mascot. all but two of the buffalo’s five handlers went airborne as the five-year-old female buffalo galloped around Folsom Field.

“They replayed that more on Tv than highlights of the game itself,” David Gagne, one of two handlers who managed to stay upright, said. “it was funny because by the time i realized no one else was on, the run was over. i was just wondering why (the run) was so bad.” if you compare the Ralphie program to a football team, Gagne would be the equivalent of a blue-chip high school basketball recruit who decided to play tight end instead.

“i knew i wanted to do something with athletics on the college level, but i didn’t pursue an athletic scholarship right after school,” Gagne said, admitting he didn’t have any particularly enticing offers for lacrosse, his best sport. as the decision that would change his life approached – staying close to home to get his education, or traveling out west – the young trainer-to-be turned to a local CU alumnus named Susan Southwick.

“Susan talked about these guys who would do themselves up in cowboy gear and take this live buffalo and run it out across the field,” Gagne said.

When he watched the routine on YouTube, Gagne says, “it looked like the craziest thing i’d ever seen.”

Something about running alongside a barreling, 1,300-pound Buffalo excited this varsity athlete. Gagne said it was, “Something i needed to do.”

Gagne grew up in vermont, about as far away as one can be from the western plains. He had never even seen a live

I knew I wanted to do somethIng wIth athletIcs on the college level, but I dIdn’t pursue an athletIc scholarshIp rIght after school.

David Gagne

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By Nick Gerhardt

buffalo in person before college. When those who might not know him talk to Gagne, the 21-year-old student comes across like an old-fashioned cowboy stuck in an easterner’s body. “i’ve always been that guy, the kind of personality that would fit in with that western style,” he said.

When he first returned home from Boulder decked out in a cowboy hat and boots, none of his friends seemed surprised. “it just fit,” he said. an aspiring engineer, Gagne was hardly set on Boulder from the start. armed with a weighty high school diploma, he had a choice to make upon graduating – stay close to home, go the military route or head out west.

He played varsity lacrosse and football at Bellows High School in St. albenn, vt. in the winter, he skied competitively, placing top 20 in slalom and giant slalom. as the treasurer for student council , a stand-out member of the Civil air Patrol program, and an a-student, Gagne had options.

He briefly considered University of vermont, the school just 30 minutes away from his hometown. Then, Gagne looked at norwich University and West Point, both military institutions. When he looked into Colorado’s engineering program and saw their sterling job-placement credentials, however, he was sold.

Once Gagne arrived in Boulder, the freshman joined the ROTC and dove headlong into those responsibilities. Between that and classwork, he didn’t have time for much else that fall.

But for a guy from a state with no professional or college football teams, he had to get down to Folsom every Saturday.

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When Ralphie ran, the crowd went crazy. It motivated Gagne to stay in shape – to keep himself in the prime position to compete for a spot running alongside her when the opportunity came.

During his second semester, he approached Gail Pederson, the director of the Ralphie Training Program.

“The more I learned about it, the more it interested me and the more it seemed like I would be a good fit,” Gagne said.

He began talking to people on the Ralphie team about what running with her was like, if they would recommend it for someone like him. He received the same response from the trainers that he had already heard from his ROTC friends.

“They were like, ‘Yeah, you’ve got to do it,’” Gagne says.

Gagne tried out against 60 others on the big day. Once he made the team, he quickly discovered the level of commitment necessary more than satisfied his need for a collegiate athletic pursuit.

Since the homecoming game against the Cowboys of Oklahoma State in 1967, a female Buff encircled by five handlers has run out ahead of the football team and after touchdowns, much to the delight of the CU faithful. The handlers have their own nickname for her.

her around turns. You may recognize him as the man seemingly hanging off the animal at a 45-degree angle in pictures of the bison turning full-tilt.

“We call this one ‘Blackout,’” Gagne said.

“There was three or four buffalo that we had our pick from, and she had by far the darkest coat. And of course, it’s obviously appealing because this is a home team where everyone wears black.”

One more handler runs behind Gagne – the only other to hold on through the ESPN blooper-reel run during the blowout loss to USC. Primarily, he muscles Ralphie’s back leg through the turn, and he runs the longest lap on the team.

Gagne is one of the few freshmen in the history of the program to run in front with the animal in his first live practice with the team. A rare, fortunate opportunity that Gagne said came about due to a smaller team size and due to injuries to the varsity student-athletes ahead of him.

The two inside handlers pull through the turn, operating like the pivot in a joint. They also communicate with the team, as the two outside guys lose sight of their teammates on the other side of her body.

“I believe proactive, not inactive, will get you farther in life,” Gagne said.

He trained religiously his first year in school.

ROTC helped with that to a certain degree, but Gagne worked out often on his own. He

The more I learned abouT IT, The more IT InTeresTed me David Gagne

Though they often remain Ralphie’s nearly faceless wingmen to the fans, the team sees as much action on Saturday as anyone.

The horseshoe sprint around Folsom Field must be run in sync by five human beings gripping ropes attached to Ralphie. When the team plays rival Colorado State at Sports Authority Field at Mile High, she and her team run a diagonal line across the field.

The current mascot, “Ralphie V” on the CUBuffs.com Ralphie page, is a 1,300pound buffalo.

For safety reasons, no Ralphie has ever been a Ralph, the original nickname erroneously applied to a female and later amended. The university had a male buffalo for the last time in 1957, named “Mr. Chips.” Male bison tend to be bigger and more unwieldy, especially as they approach “rut” (read: mating) season around age five or six.

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didn’t know exactly what the tryouts would entail – for much of his second semester, he didn’t even know when they would be held – so he just worked out, constantly. That extra work paid off right away when he ran his rookie year.

“I don’t know if coach looked into my eyes and saw something more or if I displayed something in tryouts, but he gave me a chance to run my first practice my rookie year, which is really awesome,” he explained.

“That rookie year, I moved on to running the front of the buffalo because of my speed and because of my understanding of the animal and what needs to happen, my cognitive awareness of what’s going on in the field.”

“You have to step up and work pretty hard on the outside,” he said.

A fifth mans the back of the beast. His task seems to be the most daunting. He plays the part of the brake, attempting to slow down over a thousand pounds before she settles into her pen. The biggest obstacle for him is not the buffalo itself, but the transition from grass to turf at Folsom field.

“Our cleats just do not want to grip on that turf, so for that brake spot it can be tough,” Gagne said.

It takes a lot of preparation. And the team’s training regimen involves so much more than running alongside a buffalo over and over and over again.

Plyometrics, cardio-intensive lifting routines and Olympic-style lifts are all among the team’s weekly workout routine.

Obviously, for the most part, the team runs.

Skywalking alongside a buffalo is a uniqueenough workout.

“Sometimes, you feel like your feet don’t even touch the ground,” Gagne said.

But their atypical cardio workouts don’t stop there. In fact, running Ralphie isn’t even the largest part of the athletes’ workout.

“We work with a 20-foot rubber band,” Gagne said.

Five handlers surround Ralphie on game day, two on the outside flank, two on the inside flank and one in back.

You can’t mimic the movements of a wild buffalo; you also can’t run a living animal to exhaustion with sprinting practice five days a week. The rubber band is a happy compromise.

Gagne runs on the outside front flank. He pushes his shoulder into Ralphie to steer

Two people hold the band between them, one in front and one behind. Then the

athlete in front pulls the athlete in back through a 30-yard sprint.

The goal is to achieve symmetry between the two; they must run at the same speed, keeping the band taut for 90 feet. It helps the guy out in front develop the strength necessary to direct the buffalo. For the guy behind, it’s the closest any workout comes to mimicking the pull of the animal.

As big a part of his life as running with Ralphie may be, Gagne’s greatest contribution to the world around him is a bike.

The Adaptive Bike Project, conducted through the engineering school and overseen by Dr. Daria Kotys-Schwartz, tasked David and several classmates with designing a bike for use by a 21 year old, Adrian, with a condition of cerebral palsy.

“A major challenge of the project was working with a client directly. Not only did they have the challenge of meeting the specific needs, they had to prioritize his safety,” Kotys-Shwartz said.

Though technically a “class project,” the bike would absolutely be used by the client.

Any miscalculation or errors in construction could put Adrian at risk.

everybody makes their own decisions, and those decisions reflect who they are. Not only that, but a person’s attitude can change what they have set forth for them in the future.”

“It was one of the first times this class got to work with a real client,” Gagne said.

Okay, so not entirely. But a force for good, David has certainly proved to be.

Basically, Gagne had to help design a bike that would hold the client the way a wheelchair would. The major design challenge: Adrian could not use his right hand. He had to be able to steer and brake all with his left.

“You are what you are. You are what you make of yourself,” Gagne said.

“I had to find and modify a recumbentstyle seat, and I acted as the group’s key fabricator,” Gagne said.

His work on the project left a lasting impression with his professor.

“David is a dedicated engineer. He is ambitious, curious, and a natural leader,” Kotys-Schwartz said. “Most importantly, David is compassionate and driven to complete projects with the utmost integrity.

I’m not really religious. I believe strongly that

He made himself into one of the few men on this planet who can legitimately say he runs alongside a beloved buffalo in his free time.

And that’s not even the greatest thing he’s ever done.

“I feel like I’ve found my place. I don’t know how many college students truly get to do that,” Gagne said.

What’s the only thing cooler than finding your place running alongside Ralphie? Using your talents to make the world a better place for someone else.

Gagne seems to be able to do everything; it comes as no surprise he excels at that, too.

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CUSPY ReCaP

E

RED CARPET AFFAIR The CUSPYs remind student-athletes what it means to be a Buff

SPN’s annual award show, the ESPYs, has become the hottest ticket of the summer. Athletes from across the country gather in droves to find out who takes the top honors, ranging from best male and female athletes to best team. For one night, there are no rivalries or intense hype around a specific match-up, only the admiration of a year filled with incredible competition, jawdropping plays and heartfelt moments.

For 12 years, the University of Colorado has found a way to take the same approach within its own athletic department. Since 2001, the “CUSPYs” have highlighted the best moments of the CU athletic year. Each year, the sports information department nominates, then debates and decides which student-athletes walk away with the year’s top recognitions.

The 12th Annual CUSPYs were held in the Coors Events Center on May 1. This year’s award winners featured a young girl who overcame great personal tragedy, a national championship winning freshman skier and a football player who accomplished

20

something in the Buffs’ weight room that has never even been accomplished at the NFL scouting combine.

The most credit for the event must be given to the students who were instrumental in organizing it. Throughout the ceremony, various parody videos produced by Buffs TV gave the crowd some comedic insight into the world of a CU student-athlete. The videos used several pop culture references, such as commercials and movie trailers, to highlight off-field situations the modern student-athlete regularly encounters.

As the awards were being handed out, it dawned on the crowd that the 2011-12 year was a special one in the world of CU athletics. It started with the freshmen award winners, Adam Zika for the men and Rachel Baptista for the women. In his inaugural year on the men’s ski team, Zika claimed a national championship in the giant slalom.

Baptista was instrumental in the women’s cross-country team taking home the firstever Pac-12 championship in the sport.

Baptista did not claim the only award for the women’s cross-country team, as Shalaya

By Daniel Mohrmann

Kipp took home the female athlete of the year. Kipp led the Buffs in every race last season and finished fourth overall at the Pac12 championship and the NCAA regional, both won by the Buffs.

The male athlete of the year went to men’s basketball player Andre Roberson, who helped the Buffs win the Pac12 championship and make their first appearance in the NCAA Tournament since 2003. Roberson averaged more than 14 points and 10 rebounds per game through the Pac-12 Tournament, as the Buffs won four games in four days to clinch an NCAA Tournament berth. Roberson also played a key role in the Buffs’ 68-64 win over UNLV in the second round of the tourney.

In perhaps the most energy-filled moment of the night, the conditioning awards were handed out to several Buffs. Among the “lifters of the year” were Adam Salzmann and Katie Dreher from the track team, Austin Dufault from the men’s basketball team and Alyssa Valentine from the women’s volleyball team. But the moment of the night went to Eric Ritcher from the football team.

He was the recipient of the Iron Buffalo

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Left to right: Alyssa Valentine (volleyball), strength coach James Hardy, Austin Dufault (men’s basketball)

Left to right: Katie Stege (skiing), Rachel Baptista (XC/Track), Shalaya Kipp (XC/Track/Olympian)

Left to right: Stephen Kasica (Track), Emily Talley (Women’s Golf), Jessica Aschenbrenner (Volleyball)

Left to right: Emily Hunsucker (Track), Andre Roberson (Men’s Basketball), Cameron Clayton (Track)

Award, which is given to the football player who demonstrates the best performance in the weight room.

fellow student-athletes erupted in cheers when the video showed him getting to the historic mark.

Ritcher took on the task of trying to break the NFL scouting combine’s bench press record. In the history of the combine, only one person has ever lifted 225 pounds more than 50 times. The video quickly appeared on the screens in the Coors Events Center.

With his teammates looking on Ritcher began his trial, taking the weight and benching it 52 times, more than anyone has ever recorded at the combine. Ritcher’s

As impressive of an accomplishment as it was for Ritcher, the CUSPYs were not entirely full of cheer for on-field accomplishments.

Every year, the Buffs hand out the Spencer Nelson Buffalo Spirit Award, which goes to a student-athlete who has overcome adversity off the field. Perhaps no other studentathlete overcame such off-field adversity than Katie Dreher, who lost her father in a plane crash south of Alamosa in November.

The tragic event did not deter Dreher from performing her duties as a member of the Buffs track team and helped inspire those around her. Through the fun and excitement that the CUSPYs generate every year, the Spencer Nelson Buffalo Spirit Award is a constant reminder of how athletics can help student-athletes overcome personal troubles and become a true example to those around them.

The night was capped off with the Career Achievement Awards, given to the male and female athletes who were able to

amass impressive career numbers in their time as Buffs. For the male athlete, running back Rodney Stewart was voted the winner.

Despite his small stature, Stewart became one of the best running backs to ever suit up for the Buffs. He totaled 3,598 rushing yards, good enough for second all-time amongst CU backs. He ranks just behind his 2012 offensive coordinator, Eric Bieniemy, by 342 yards. Stewart was unable to accept his award in person, however, as he had been signed as an undrafted free agent by the Cincinnati Bengals, joining his quarterback at CU, Tyler Hansen.

On the female side, golfer Emily Talley was chosen as having the best career as a Buff.

Talley beat out fellow seniors Emma Coburn and Katie Hartman, both of whom were worthy of career honors in their respective sports. “(Coburn and Hartman) should

be standing up here with me,” Talley said upon accepting her award. Almost half of Talley’s 35 records as a Buff are career records and her play was instrumental in making the women’s golf team a national contender.

Through all of the individual performances highlighted at the CUSPYs, it was easy to forget that athletics center around a team.

However, the teams were the highlight when it came to selecting the CU Sports Moment of the Year. The women’s golf team winning three straight tournaments and nearly cracking a top-10 ranking could’ve easily topped that list. The men’s basketball team storming through the Pac12 Tournament to earn an NCAA tourney berth ranks amongst one of the most memorable athletic moments of the year.

But the winning moment came with CU’s

sweep of the Pac-12 cross-country titles. The conference championships set the tone for what Mike Bohn and his Buffs hope to be a long and successful career in the Pac-12.

That moment, and the night as a whole, highlighted the greatest aspects of being a student-athlete. Yes, the night was filled with light-hearted moments, inside jokes and tales of being a part of CU’s athletic department. But at the end of the ceremony, those involved knew what being a Buff was all about.

By night’s end, it didn’t matter which Buff was named the strongest, the best freshmen or simply the most courageous. What mattered most was that at the end of the year, the athletes who called themselves Buffs throughout an entire school year all stood together – shoulder to shoulder.

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CoaCh

PRoFILE

T

Linda Lappe

NO SUMMER BREAK Linda Lappe spends her offseason improving the Buffs

he toughest players seem to talk the least.

From 1998 to 2003, Linda Lappe was known for her easygoing demeanor, gritty play and basketball savvy on the court. away from the arena, she quietly dominated her class work, finishing the semester with a 4.0 Gpa twice.

When the athletic department named Lappe as the new women’s basketball coach on april 12, 2010, she brought that dogged, walk-before-you-talk approach back with her.

“She was a lot quieter as a player,” assistant coach LaTonya Watson said, laughing. “But she can’t be now; she’s the head coach.

Linda’s view as a coach is, she extracts from her experience as an athlete here.”

Lappe played for four years under legendary women’s coach Ceal Barry, now the Buffs associate athletic director. Lappe played the game Ceal’s way – emphasizing team defense and sharing the ball, and approaching the game every day with the same passion, intensity and energy.

“She’s been in their shoes playing here at Colorado, and that gives her some of that authenticity with the players,” said Watson. in her freshman season, Lappe led the Buffs to their first women’s niT appearance.

She won the team’s offensive MVp award that year and also caused opposing teams serious problems on the defensive end with her fast hands.

“She was always a very blue-collar-like worker, both in the classroom and on the basketball court,” Watson said. “She didn’t take shortcuts, she was a total team player, no ego. Her perseverance is second to none.”

Lappe approaches her coaching duties the same way, with a – here’s that word again – 24

gritty approach that rubs off on Watson and the rest of her staff. “everything our staff puts our energy into, we want to make sure it’s the most energy we have,” Lappe said.

“We’re going to be gritty in the recruiting process. We’re going to do the right thing in trying to schedule opponents so we can position ourselves where we want to be at the end of the season,” Lappe said, continuing on down a list that includes everything from team travel to basketball camps.

Like any great leader, Lappe knows that if she can exhibit for her players the level of commitment required to be successful in division i basketball, her players will follow. “as a staff, we work very hard, and at the same time, we expect them to work extremely hard, too,” she said. “That’s been the most important thing as we’ve taken over this program, to bring a lot of energy every single day, and to help our players understand what it means to bring that same energy, same enthusiasm, same mental and physical toughness every day.”

Lappe’s team started strong and finished tough last season, but their season sagged in January and February. after starting 13-1, they went on to lose three games in a row – twice – and then endured a third losing streak, this one lasting five games, before righting the ship with a win over Oregon State in March. “i feel like we lost something a little bit in January,” Lappe said, “and as a coaching staff, you always look at yourselves and ask, ‘What do we have to do differently as a staff?’ as a head coach and as a leader, it always starts with me.”

Through the rough stretch, Lappe kept her players focused on the limited amount of time they had left to accomplish the goal they set in October – to win the women’s niT.

By Nick Gerhardt

“We kind of found that missing piece then, and you can’t always put your finger on what that missing piece was. We were just kind of rejuvenated towards the end of the season,” she explained.

Once they found their way back into the winners’ column, the Buffs tore through the first two rounds of the WniT, handily defeating northern Colorado and South dakota. after squeaking past Villanova, CU set a team record for three-pointersmade during a tournament game in the team’s quarterfinal contest against Oklahoma State. Unfortunately, they advanced no further than the field of eight, losing 78-70 to the Cowgirls, the eventual niT champions.

The Buffs may not have accomplished their goal, but it was still a big step forward for a team that only had only one senior. and with so much young talent coming up, Lappe values the lessons her players learned through the up-and-down season.

“We lost four games at home last year, two in overtime and one by two points,” Lappe said. “i was pleased with how we played the games, how we came to practice every day. i think those two things were in direct correlation to us starting to win games.”

Team strength coach James Hardy organized a rigorous summer training regimen for the women’s basketball team last year. Lappe modestly gave the credit for the Buffs’ hot start to Hardy’s work.

“The summer really propelled us into the season,” Lappe said. “We want to keep that momentum going next year. it’s all about our mentality and our mindset.” now with the voice and sway enjoyed by the head coach of a division i program, Lappe joins forces with the likes of football coach Jon embree to bring back an old summer tradition.

She waS alwayS a very bluecollar-like worker, both in the claSSroom and on the baSketball court.

LaTonya Watson

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As the Boulder community continues to grow into so much more than just a college town, the athletic department is set on shrinking.

Not in the sense of fewer student-athletes, less revenue or declining results. The department is simply pulling all of its programs in closer to center, trying to shrink the aesthetic distance between the athletes and staff from different sports.

Back when they played – Lappe as a guard from 1998-2003, Embree lined up at tight end from 1983-86 – University of Colorado student-athletes trained together each summer.

This summer, they’ve brought that concept back.

After a full year of Pac-12 play, Colorado student-athletes will try to find their Pacific sea-legs together. This summer and fall, all of them are expected to get in better shape, together. With these fresh legs in their new league, these players are establishing the renewed identity of the Colorado Buffaloes – together.

“When I got hired, a lot of the athletic department was at the press conference,” Lappe said. “It was really a cool atmosphere. I felt supported by everyone in the university.

Not just the administration, but everyone that works in marketing, that works in ticketing, that works in development – within every single area of athletics.

“When Tad (Boyle, the men’s basketball coach) got hired a week later, the same thing occurred for him. It shows that you have people here who are behind you.”

We’re going to be gritty in the recruiting process.

Linda Lappe

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Once she settled in, Lappe quickly won over her fellow coaches.

“She’s great,” women’s golf coach Anne Kelly said. “She’s very calm, and she’s smart and she’s very competitive. I think she’s going to do so well in her career.”

Perhaps Coach Kelly is just a little bit biased. As Lappe’s next-door neighbor, Kelly often walks with the basketball coach in the mornings. A dog lover, Kelly needs her fix, and Lappe’s golden retriever Farley provides it.

Lappe spends the majority of her time with her staff at the team’s offices inside the Coors Events Center in Boulder. The recently renovated workspace puts the basketball and volleyball teams under the same roof.

Across the board, the athletic department is trying to cultivate an environment that balances an in-your-face confidence against opponents with a family-like togetherness around one another. Moving the teams in together two years ago was one step, and the collaborative conditioning summer is the next.

Logistically, the literal distance remaining between programs in separate buildings – football and basketball, for example – makes it more difficult to build up rapport with everyone. Collaborative conditioning helps bridge that gap.

As much as Lappe loves the increasingly familiar environment in Boulder, she points to her time at Metro State as the closest she’s ever felt to her fellow coaches – a sentiment shared by current CU women’s soccer coach Danny Sanchez, himself a former Roadrunners coach.

“There was a comfort level there,” Lappe said. “All the coaches really helped each other, really supported each other.

“It helped that there weren’t a lot of people in the athletic department, so our offices were all close together. Danny Sanchez, he and I had offices right next to each other.

It’s tougher at CU, because our offices are so far apart.”

As Sanchez put it, that Roadrunners program “stretches you thin,” but provides invaluable thrown-into-the-fire training for young coaches.

At smaller institutions like Metro State, coaches had smaller staffs and more responsibility. Recruits come and go more often. Urgent menial tasks often sap time from coaching staples like recruiting, game-planning and the like. For a socalled blue-collar worker like Lappe, it was the perfect environment, offering plenty of work to do.

“I wasn’t looking to leave Metro, but this job came open and they contacted me, and it kind of went from there,” she says. “I could have stayed at Metro for a long, long time, but it just so happened that the timing was such that (the CU head coaching) job came open after three years.

“Metro State’s a very good institution, athletically and academically. I feel like Joan McDermott does a really good job as the athletic director there running her program and developing coaches to be ready for whatever it is they want to do in the longer term.”

Lappe worked for one year on rival Colorado State’s staff, primarily as a recruiter, before she became the Roadrunners head coach in 2007.

Honed at two Colorado institutions, Lappe’s ability to build a team with the right recruits will define her legacy at CU. The field of recruiting prospects might be better in Boulder, but she still wants the same kind of basketball player.

“I always want to find that good leader with those intangibles,” Lappe said.

Intangibles?

Lappe explains: “Are they really tough? Do they get on the floor? Will they sacrifice their body and take a charge?”

On leadership, Lappe evaluates a recruit’s demeanor when they come out of the game: “Do they give everyone a high five or do they just go sit on the end of the bench? How are they when they’re being coached – when their coach calls them over, do they look them in the eye or do they put their head down?”

At Colorado, as opposed to Metro, she and her staff, “recruit a different level of athlete,

and maybe with a little different skill set, but all of those intangibles, those really have to be the same anywhere.”

“I’m not a big fan of what I call ‘shotgun recruiting,’ where you see a kid one time and you sign them,” said Lappe. “I like to watch kids multiple times, see them with their club team, but also see them with their high school team.”

Entering her third year on the job, Lappe will finally have upper classmen on the team who she recruited as the players from the last staff – including only one senior.

Although she’s careful not to take any thing away from the older players on her roster, Lappe loves her sophomoresto-be.

Still, Lappe sees a void that she hopes a recruit can fill.

“We don’t have anybody with every single one of those intangibles,” Lappe said. “I think that may be one of the things we’re missing.”

One current player – Meagan MalcolmPeck – has the athletic ability and has begun to develop into that intangibleladen player. Malcolm-Peck improved in her willingness to hit the floor and take charges. A teammate in need goes to

Malcolm-Peck. As she ages, her teammates trust her more and more.

“If any of the players need anything, they know they can go to Meagan,” Lappe said.

After a speed bump in the recruiting process – losing assistant coach Jennie Baranczyk, who became the new head coach at Drake in May – the team hired Harvard assistant coach Kelly Rae Finley.

Finley and Lappe met during the 200607 season when Finley was a junior and Lappe was an assistant coach. Finley coordinated all recruiting aspects for her Ivy League school. Like Lappe, Finley plays the game “the right way,” and the head coach has full confidence in her new assistant coach.

Lappe gets to the office earlier in the summer, primed every day for the recruiting grind ahead. The coach won’t tip her hand for the upcoming season, saying simply, “We expect to be better in every way.”

For a woman who lives and breathes basketball, that’s no small undertaking. But make no mistake – Lappe will work harder than anyone.

If her players are willing to do the same, Lappe’s Buffs will be a force to be reckoned with come fall.

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presents

DONOR

PROFILE

I

KEEP ON LEARNING

Former Buff Tom Garfinkel learns – and teaches – every step of the way | By Marty Coffin Evans

It doesn’t take long in talking with CU alum, Tom Garfinkel (Arts and Sciences, 1991) to know how important the adaptation is to him. From a 17-year-old freshman from Walnut Creek, Calif., to president and CEO of the San Diego Padres, he’s adapted to a variety of sports related career opportunities.

Tom’s love of sports has kept him learning and growing across the decades. It’s also convinced him that sports can provide significant access to interesting people from whom to learn.

“I had no idea at the time how influential my decision was to come to CU,” Tom reflects.

With family moving to the East Coast and wanting to try something new, Boulder became his new home. A 65-degree April day with the sun shining, clinched the deal for him. “It was gut instinct.”

Tom remembers those as extraordinary years for sports.

“It was a special time to be here with the national football championship,” he comments. For him, Colorado was also a formative experience because he

met people from different places and cultures. “You grow as an adult and learn how to relate to people and not to judge them. I met people at CU from all kinds of backgrounds and different socioeconomic environments.”

Although initially an art major, one summer at a New York City ad firm caused him to switch to communications. With hopes of landing a job in sports, Tom headed to Chicago after graduation. But working at a bar by Wrigley Field was the closest he got to a sports job at the time.

Recently attending a Padres and Cubs game in Chicago, Tom reminisces, “Here I am sitting in the visiting owner seats at Wrigley Field, and it occurred to me how much things had changed from when I was checking IDs at the bar across the street 20 years ago.”

Checking those IDs didn’t last long, as Tom, with his dad’s encouragement to “always be learning,” soon talked with the bar’s owner, began making changes and became the manager for three bars in Chicago.

Building on skills acquired in this business, his next stop was in strategic marketing and sales for the Miller Brewing Company,

where the sports connections started coming together.

Combining the knowledge from his communications major coupled with an MBA from Michigan, Tom was well positioned. A call from Texaco propelled him into an even more sports-related area.

“Things were going really well at Miller, but I decided to go to Texaco because of the opportunity to learn new things and get out of my comfort zone,” he says.

Managing sponsorships and corporate branding for Texaco added more experiences to Tom’s career. He soon understood that sports provide unique access to people and businesses from which to learn – including significant political figures, influential celebrities, as well as CEOs and other business leaders at some of the world’s leading corporations. He quickly realized the importance and challenge of building the right culture in high profile, competitive markets. That concept resonates with him to this day.

He acknowledges that one never knows where a contact or a networking opportunity will lead. A call from friend Chip Ganassi,

Here I am sIttIng In tHe vIsItIng owner seats at wrIgley FIeld, and It occurred to me How mucH tHIngs Had cHanged From wHen I was cHeckIng Ids at tHe bar across tHe street 20 years ago.

Tom Garfinkel

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The Colorado sTudenT-aThleTes deserve supporT from The alumni base.

Tom Garfinkel

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He eventually moved into baseball as executive vice president and chief operating officer of the Arizona Diamondbacks prior to securing the president/CEO position with the San Diego Padres. He has used his position as a platform to support CU further by hosting Buffs in a suite at a Padres game and by seeking Colorado students as interns.

to adjust and always be learning becomes critical to success.

Although Tom never played sports at CU, he has great appreciation for the studentathlete, realizing how much hard work is involved. Joining the Buff Club became one way of supporting these student-athletes.

Giving the commencement address at San Diego State University caused him to reflect; it also reinforced important aspects in his career.

“The Colorado student-athletes deserve support from the alumni base,” he notes.

He wants them to have the best facilities and opportunities to learn and grow at CU. “I want them to feel a great sense of pride in CU athletics and be a part of continuing and celebrating its winning traditions.”

“I told them to always be learning, lead with integrity, and to guard their relationships and reputation as their most valuable assets,” Tom says. He notes that with the advent of the internet, social media and cell phones – none of which were in existence when he graduated from CU – the ability

As to supporting his alma mater, Tom is a strong believer in the importance of giving back – giving something. The kind and amount will vary, whether the resources are financial, time as a mentor or in providing access to others.

from their Texaco connection, moved Tom into a five-year stint in another sports sector. Working as executive vice president overseeing all business operations with the Chip Ganassi Racing Team provided him with an opportunity to learn from executives from companies like Target, Chevron, Toyota and Microsoft.

Often asked about his life and career, Tom mentions that hard work, sacrifice, luck and “having people who believe in you” with help you along the way, all played a part.

“I feel very fortunate,” he says.

“Someone I respect a lot once told me that it doesn’t matter how much you give, just give something,” he says. “I’m proud to be part of this university and do my small part to give back. There’s always room to do more.”

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STampede

Q&a Gail Pederson aT hOme WITh The BUFFS

By Doug Ottewill

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G

ail Pederson doesn’t wear a uniform.

She doesn’t carry a whistle or a clipboard. But it could easily be argued that her value to CU Athletics is equal to any athlete, coach or administrator on campus. She’s a Buff – there’s no questioning that. She’s called herself one – and earned that title – every day since 1994.

But who is she? For being a Buff so valuable to the University of Colorado, it’s possible that not everyone knows her by name.

Unquestionably, however, anyone who cares about the Buffs is more than familiar with her daily good deeds. They just might not know Pederson is behind them.

So, isn’t it about time you get to know her? We thought so.

As one of the longer tenured employees in CU Athletics (top 15), how did you come to CU and what has kept you here?

In 1982, I made my first trip to Colorado for a conference in Estes Park. It was a picture perfect September day, and realizing there was a university in Boulder, I made a stop at the bookstore for a souvenir t-shirt. Having attended a large commuter college in Southern California, I was intrigued by the beautiful architecture and decided to explore. I distinctly remember the overwhelming feeling as I looked across campus to the Flatirons – from that moment on, my quest was to live in Boulder and work at CU. Over the next 12 years, I transitioned from a job in PR with the California Angels to a park ranger and then back into sports with the Orange County Sports Association. My connection to CU continued to grow as I frequently traveled to Boulder, not only on vacations, but also as a bowl scout for the Freedom Bowl and Disneyland Pigskin Classic – working directly with CU in the 1988 and 1990 games. In 1994 when a position in marketing opened, I jumped at the opportunity to fulfill my dream of being a Buff; I have never looked back. I can’t imagine working or living anywhere else and 34

although my diploma doesn’t say University of Colorado on it, my heart and soul are here and I consider myself a “Forever Buff !”

How much has the landscape of college sports changed since you’ve been in “the business”?

College sports have definitely evolved – from television contracts, conference alignments, sponsorship opportunities and media exposure, it continues to be a dynamically changing business. We compete daily with professional sports for the entertainment dollar, especially in our marketplace.

Fortunately, college athletics offer a unique atmosphere that connects fans with deep ties to their institution, to the game itself, creating an energy and passion that cannot be duplicated. New specialties have emerged in areas such as compliance, licensing, branding and social media. And our student-athletes now are supported with incredible resources in academics, leadership training, strength and conditioning and sports medicine.

When you came to CU in 1994, what were some of the things that seemed “simpler” to deal with? How has the evolution of things made various jobs within the athletic department different and/or more challenging?

It’s really amazing to look back and see the

dramatic changes that have taken place in a relatively short period of time. Everyone’s job is challenged by keeping up with the pace of technology, competitiveness, managing the immediacy of emerging issues and the 24/7/365 connectivity. During my time, we’ve gone from one matrix board in the stadium to video boards on both the north and south end – this season there will be a dramatic change in our game-day entertainment with our new HD video and ribbon boards. In 1994, game-day production consisted of me on a hardwired headset on the northeast corner of the field with a “simple” twopage script coordinated with our PA booth.

Now, the script is a complex, multifaceted program plan that is strategically integrated with BuffVision, marketing, Buffalo Sports Properties, the marching band and the spirit squads. Ticketing, that once consisted of hand-sorted hard tickets, now requires our staff to be experts in customer service, retention and electronic marketing technology.

Since my arrival, I’ve seen the addition of the east side club suites, we’ve competed in three conferences and now we are set to launch the game changing Pac-12 Network! All of the challenges we face today continue to contribute and fuel our competitive excellence; it’s a transformational time for CU Athletics.

For those who may not know you, give us an idea of your role as the athletic department’s “Chief of Staff.”

I am a member of our senior staff team, charged with providing strategic coordination of leadership initiatives both internally and externally. Our office drives and supports the collaboration of marketing development, donor cultivation, stewardship, customer care and messaging. I am fortunate to oversee a talented team that includes the staffs of BuffVision, special events, the Guiding Principles Initiative and our Ralphie Live Mascot Program. Joining the Pac-12 has expanded my role to include representing CU on the Pac-12 Football Championship Committee and most recently as the liaison to the new Pac-12 Network. I’m proud of our development of Guiding Principles that we continue to build upon and integrate into our organization and culture. They inspire us and provide clarity as we align our staff, coaches, student-athletes and all constituents, all while building upon our competitive excellence. In the variety of responsibilities I am involved with, the critical component is to follow our Guiding Principles while supporting the mission of the department and university. As a conduit to department leaders and campus administration, my

position is challenging and always fluid as each day brings a new opportunity.

You’ve obviously worked very closely with Mike Bohn. What would you want someone who follows the Buffs to know about him f irst and foremost?

First and foremost is his unequivocal passion for CU. He values our student-athletes, coaches, staff, fans and this community, and works 24/7 to ensure that we all succeed.

His drive for excellence is well respected in the industry and he inspires others to reach his high standards. Having grown up in Boulder, he is intimately attached to the community and values the long-standing traditions that are important to our brand.

At the same time, his creative juices have sparked new traditions and initiatives that make fans across the county proud to be a Buff. The successful Friday night Pearl Street Stampede is one example of that conviction.

This past spring, the idea to take 50 students to the Pac-12 Basketball Tournament has been lauded nationally as a brilliant move that not only energized our team towards the Pac-12 Championship but also galvanized those 50 students in their lifelong affinity as a Buff. Mike is a collaborative leader that is committed to sustainable excellence and fueling the intensity of interest of our fan

base. I encourage anyone that has not had the pleasure of interacting with him to do so – I guarantee you will be infected by his enthusiasm and passion.

What do you like most about working with Mike?

Mike and I have built our careers from externally focused backgrounds, so we are both driven by the same motivations – quality customer service, sales, branding, creative marketing, energized game-day atmospheres and team spirit. We have developed collective equity and trust that keeps us in sync with key stakeholders allowing us to be a responsive and effective team. It’s exciting to be involved on a daily basis with an Athletic Director who cares so deeply for CU and our institutional mission. I greatly appreciate working in a positive environment with a dynamic leader that gives you the autonomy to do your job and always values your efforts.

You had to leave the university for a brief stint due to family reasons. During that time, what did you miss most about being at CU? I missed everything! CU wasn’t just my job, it was a part of the fabric of who I was. After only 10 years, CU and Boulder had become “home” and I was definitely “homesick.” I missed the interaction with

CU wasn’t jUst my job, it was a part of the fabriC of who i was.

Gail Pederson

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Ralphie tRanscends wins and losses, and RepResents all that is good at cU, within oUR state and inteRcollegiate athletics.

Gail Pederson

our talented student-athletes, staff, coaches, administrators, the fans and our community.

After leaving CU, I was hired to lead the PR and marketing efforts of a new University of California satellite campus charged with bringing an MBA and MFA program to an emerging market in Palm Desert. I was successful in implementing several fun concepts from athletics into the academic program of the small campus. Being mascot-driven, I collaborated with the staff and students and developed an identity; we became the “Tumbleweeds” with even professors displaying an actual tumbleweed in their offices. Although it was an amazing opportunity in a beautiful community, I just kept saying, “But it’s not CU.” When our situation allowed us to return to Boulder, Mike Bohn presented the opportunity to rejoin the Buffs, we were packed and back “home” immediately.

You have been involved with the Ralphie Live Mascot Program since you started at CU. How did you get involved and how has it grown?

In the fall of 1994, after two months on the job, I was introduced to Ralphie III and Johnny Parker, a tremendous CU supporter who volunteered his time to manage the handlers and house Ralphie. Over the years, we have dramatically enhanced the program by fully integrating it into the athletic department. I’m proud of the fact that our handlers now receive varsity letters for their participation, receive media relations training, are supported by sports medicine staff, and train with our strength and conditioning coaches. I’m also extremely proud of the momentum we continue to build. We are in the fourth year of a partnership with Cinch, as our game-day apparel sponsor. We have a relationship with a veterinarian for Ralphie’s medical care. And we actively fundraise to support the program. Building the connectivity of former handlers we annually celebrate homecoming and have increased our participation each year. We continue to expand the area of leadership skills and recently have had one of our alums on the board of the Alumni C Club; our young men and women are lifelong ambassadors for the university. The tradition of our mascot is steeped in the program as both of our current program managers ran Ralphie when they 36

were students at CU. They continue to train and mentor our handlers instilling the pride, honor and sense of responsibility it takes to represent this treasured tradition.

How special is she treated?

Ralphie is treated like royalty. Her care is of utmost importance. It is our priority that she is protected and handled with the respect deserving of America’s No. 1 mascot. Ralphie transcends wins and losses, and represents all that is good at CU, within our state and intercollegiate athletics.

As the program director, what is it like being on the f ield with her during the game and what are your most memorable moments of being privy to the “behind the scenes” life of Ralphie?

Even after 17 football seasons, being on the sideline with her as the team takes the field still brings on an adrenaline rush that seems to make time stop. After each game, I watch the replay of Ralphie’s run to evaluate the performance. Because I’m so focused on her safety and all those on the field, I don’t hear the crowd or see anything other than her and her path into the trailer. I literally think I don’t breathe until the run is over; it’s an amazing experience coupled with a

tremendous responsibility. It’s memorable to have been able to see both Ralphie IV and Ralphie V shortly after each of their arrivals as calves. Watching them grow up to be a revered symbol of our university fills my heart. Some of my favorite moments actually come at our team practices on Folsom – when she runs in an empty stadium, you can hear the pounding of her hoofs as they hit the turf, you can hear and see her breathe, things that are lost in the crowd noise on game day but so special to experience.

During your years at CU, you’ve gotten to watch and get to know plenty of great studentathletes. Are there any that really stand out?

It is hard to single out a few, as there are so many that represent all of our sports. What is interesting is looking through my Facebook friends; I realize how many have stayed a part of my life after their graduation, a testament to the value we put on developing relationships with our student-athletes that transcend their college careers. Inspired by a program NIKE has at their headquarters in Beaverton, we recently changed our parking signs outside of Dal Ward and each of us were asked to select a prominent Buff to replace our personal name. I selected Jenny (Barringer) Simpson. Jenny was a student

worker in our office prior to her graduation.

She is an amazing young woman with drive, determination and poise. Every day I pull into my parking spot, I’m inspired by the legacy she has left us. When Linda Lappe took the stage at the press conference announcing her as our head women’s basketball coach it was rewarding to see one of our own transform from a competitive student-athlete to a committed and focused coach. Our organization is enhanced by her determination, impeccable character and most of all her passion to win. I’m proud to now be working with her as a member of our leadership team.

Sean Tufts had a tremendous football career with the Buffs (2000-03), and after his professional career with the Carolina Panthers, he returned to CU for graduate school. When he returned to campus, I was moved by his desire to become a Ralphie Handler, explaining the pride he had as a player taking the field behind Ralphie and now wanting to be a part of running with her. He joined the team and ran as a graduate student (2009-10). He was a role model and mentor for all of our handlers. We would both proudly wear our 2001 Big 12 Championship rings to each home game.

What are your favorite CU sports moments?

My very first season at CU, we played Notre Dame in the Fiesta Bowl (1995) in a resounding 42-24 win. Having worked in the bowl business for seven years prior and always having to be “non-partisan” at our games, it was exciting to be on the field in “my” team colors celebrating the joy of victory. The 62-36 win over Nebraska in 2001, capped by the 39-37 win over Texas in the Big 12 Championship Game, were two of my favorite football moments. I know the movie line goes, “There is no crying in baseball,” but there were definitely tears of joy flowing in football at both of those games. In volleyball, the 2006 home win over the No. 1 ranked Huskers still makes my heart race as the match went five games and was the first time CU had ever defeated a top-ranked opponent. Being on the organizing committee for the 2008 Big 12 Track and Field Championship was a unique and memorable experience for me.

The conviction our student-athletes, coaches and administration had for hosting and winning this championship was inspiring.

And then this past year, witnessing our sweep of the Pac-12 men’s and women’s cross country championships in Arizona was again memorable. Most recently, the historic 2012 Pac-12 men’s basketball championship run will forever hold a special place in my heart. The increased intensity with each win

over the four-day period, along with the poise and confidence our team and coaches brought to our new conference, made us all proud.

What are some of the most important goals the athletic department discusses on a daily basis?

What are the keys to accomplishing those goals?

Our No. 1 goal aligns with the foundation of our Guiding Principles, “Our reason for being is our student-athletes.” We focus daily on developing competitive excellence in all areas of our student-athletes’ lives through an ethically-based program. Our keys to achieving this goal are to provide a premier academic, athletic and social experience for each of them. Other important goals are to strategically build on our teamwork within the department, across campus and within the community. This involves our focus on a continued emphasis of transparency and collaboration. We always have an underlying expectation that everyone will prepare and compete to the maximum of their ability with a dedication to excellence and accountability.

You attended high school and college in California. How exciting was it to you when CU was accepted into the Pac-12?

Having grown up in the Pac-10 footprint, it was always my dream that CU would make the move west. So when talks of conference realignment emerged in 1994 and speculation swirled of just that, I crossed my fingers. But once the move was made from the Big 8 to the Big 12, I assumed that I would finish my career as a member of the Big 12. With the vision and leadership of Mike Bohn, Phil DiStefano, Bruce Benson and the Regents, the historic move to the Pac-12 was announced, and I definitely had one of the biggest smiles during the press conference.

In your mind, what makes CU a great f it for this conference?

Our move to the Pac-12 is a natural fit academically, athletically and for our far-reaching fan base. Being a world-class research institution with a prestigious academic reputation, the move strengthens our collaboration with the nation’s elite with our AAU peers – Stanford, Cal, Oregon, Washington, UCLA, USC and UA. By being entrenched in important recruiting hotbeds in the country for students and student-athletes, several of our programs have already reaped the rewards of the move. The Pac-12 footprint connects us to our largest alumni population outside of Colorado. We sold more than 14,000 tickets for our five Pac-12 road games in 2011 with 4,000-plus fans at three games. Considering we had never sold more than 6,000 for all road games combined in our 15 years in

the Big 12, the change in attendance now is a game changer for our student-athletes, coaches and fans.

Hypothetically, you’re sitting a potential recruit’s living room. The coaches are there making their pitch for CU. What can you tell that recruit that the coaches might not? What info about CU would you want to share most with a prospective student-athlete?

I would tell them that our administration and staff have a deep passion for all of our student-athletes and have an incredible desire for them to succeed in all areas of their lives.

We will support them both on and off the field of play, and value their educational and athletic aspirations. If they had not visited campus, I would encourage them to visit our campus and community to experience firsthand the world-class environment we have to offer, as it rivals anywhere in the country. And most importantly, I would reinforce our Guiding Principles, so both the recruit and their parents understand the emphasis we put on preparing them throughout their college career to achieve success in their lifelong endeavors.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

The best part is that it’s more than a job; it’s an integral part of my life. I’m rewarded daily by being involved in shaping the lives of student-athletes, working with dedicated coaches, representing the most recognized live mascot in athletics, participating in the spirit of competition and being supported by a team of professionals that continually inspires me. To have the privilege of serving on a world-class campus in the most beautiful community in the country – this is the pinnacle of our profession!

What are you most proud of when it comes to your work at CU? It can be summarized by being nominated and receiving an “Honorary C Club” award last season. This honor goes to someone who “supports and embraces the spirit of pride in the activities of the University of Colorado.” I am extremely proud of this award, as I believe it represents the culmination of the work I’ve done over the last 17 years.

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LIL’ BUFF

At the Buffs’ annual “photo day” for fall sports, a young Lucy Snyder explores the vast freedoms of Folsom Field, not knowing that mom, dad and the photographer are keeping a watchful eye. Photo by Chip Bromfield

2011-12 THE YEAR IN PHOTOS A pictori pictoriAAl journey of cu Buff BuffAAloes

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ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS… Well, Santa, how about a Pac-12 title? Actually, would it be too much to ask to go dancin’? Maybe even win one once we’re there?

All signs point to the Buffs having found their way onto Santa’s “nice” list. Photos by Chip Bromfield and Stephen Dunn

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WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS

The rock band Queen must have had the 2011-12 Buffs in mind when writing their ballad to winning. The Buffs claimed Pac-12 team titles in men’s basketball, as well as men’s and women’s cross-country. Additionally, the women golfers landed a spot in the NCAA championship tournament. Photos by Chip Bromfield and Stephen Dunn

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GOOOOAAAALLLLL

Against Colorado College, Lauren Shaner and Amy Barczuk celebrated after a goal that led to a 2-1 victory.

The Buffs went on to win their next game against UNC, as well, claiming the Colorado Cup. Photo by Chip Bromfield

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CLAIMING THE SHOWDOWN At Sports Authority Field at Mile High, the Buffs celebrated after taking it to the Rams, something they intend on doing to kick off the 2012 season. Photo by Chip Bromfield

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ALL TIED UP WITH A CHANCE TO WIN

Watching attentively from the bench, the women’s basketball team erupts after Chucky Jeffery sinks both free throws, giving the Buffs a 69-67 lead over USC with just 1.2 seconds remaining. Needless to say, the Buffs departed Coors with a “W.” Photo by Chip Bromfield

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THIS ONE’S FOR MARK

Who better to win the Mark Simpson CU Invitational than the Buffs themselves? That’s exactly what happened at Colorado National, when Roy Edwards’ team bested the 14-team field with a team score of 840. Photo by Chip Bromfield

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FRESH NEW PAINT

On June 7, the green grass and picturesque backdrop all looked the same, but something looked different about the lines painted on Folsom Field. Why? The CU grounds crew was doing their best to welcome the newest sport to the athletic department – women’s lacrosse. Photo by Chip Bromfield

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GIANT PERFORMER

Freshman Adam Zika cruised to an NCAA individual title in the men’s giant slalom. His 1.07-second margin of victory was the largest in an NCAA giant slalom since 1980. Photo by Chip Bromfield

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SPLISH SPLASH

CU’s Courtney Bouchet climbs through a wall of water en route to a secondplace steeplechase finish in the CU invitational. Photo by Chip Bromfield

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SERVE AND VOLLEY

The Pac-12, one of the country’s toughest tennis conferences, wasn’t kind to the Buffs in their inaugural campaign. However, Nicole Kenneally’s team is loaded with young talent like soon-to-be sophomore Julyette Steur, pictured here. Photo by Chip Bromfield

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RIGHT BACK AT ‘CHA

Senior middle-blocker Lydia Blaha winces in anticipation as she prepares to reject a Slovenian National Team kill shot at the Omni Hotels Colorado Volleyball Classic. Photo by Chip Bromfield

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SOAKING IT ALL IN

Buffaloes running back Josh Ford glances up at the rising sun on photo day, soaking in a moment before CU’s inaugural campaign in the Pac-12. Photo by Chip Bromfield

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THOUGHTS, OBSERVATIONS, NEWS, NOTES AND MUSINGS FROM…

BUFFALO BILL …A BUFF TO THE CORE

As much as I enjoy summer (and I truly do), I’m always ready to get back into the groove of things. For me, the dawn of the college football season is always exactly what the doctor ordered. I’m biased toward CU (obviously), but this year, I’m also excited to catch all the conference action on the Pac-12 Networks. Finally, I can keep an eye on everyone the Buffs will be playing, all in one place. I know, the concept of the “conference network” isn’t brand new; but for me, this is pure viewing bliss. Besides, there’s no better brand of football to watch than the air-it-out style of the Pac-12. At last, fall arrives.

There are two teams at CU that had a rough go of their inaugural season in the Pac-12 – volleyball and tennis. And this fall, I’m predicting a major bounce back. To begin, the Pac-12 isn’t for the faint of heart in those two sports; traditionally speaking, the conference is loaded with talented athletes and coaches.

Furthermore, both tennis and volleyball featured relatively young rosters. Give me that one year of valuable experience – even if it comes with a few losses – and I’ll show you a new team this fall. A rising tide raises all boats, and in the long-term, both volleyball and tennis will benefit greatly from competing in the Pac-12.

Oh, and one more thought on that – I can’t wait for Pac-12 hoops, either. I know, we’ve still got an entire football season ahead of us, but the way both the men and women at CU finished last season, I’m already glancing toward October. Unlike football, the college basketball season can be tricky to keep up with, but with the Pac-12 Networks, I can DVR most things I can’t watch in person. Again, pure bliss.

I was 48 years old when the I.O.C. was founded, thus beginning the “modern” era of the Olympic Games. And as I turned 50 in 1896, I couldn’t get my hands on the daily sports page fast enough – I had to see what the best athletes on earth were doing in the first Olympiad held in Athens, Greece. This summer – more than 100 years and 32 Games later – that same excitement and those same emotions were back. Instead of waiting for the Pony Express to deliver my news, I was logging on and tuning in – all day, every day.

I couldn’t get enough Olympic action. But what made it even better was the fact that the University of Colorado was more than wellrepresented at the London Games. Current Buffs Emma Coburn and Shalaya Kipp paired with formers Buffs Kara Goucher, Dathan Ritzenhein and Jenny Simpson in competing for the good old U-S-of-A. How cool is that? As cool as my first name.