Sports

A Historic Cotton Bowl Journey for the ��ֱ�� Buffs

Anna Tolette — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 20:19:28 +0000

A Historic Cotton Bowl Journey for the ��ֱ�� Buffs Anna Tolette Mon, 03/10/2025 - 14:19

Christie Sounart

In 1938, the ��ֱ�� Buffaloes played in their first bowl game — the Cotton Bowl — on New Year’s Day in Dallas after an undefeated season.

In the weeks leading to the game, a sense of glee hit the state of ��ֱ��. “Fans who have spent years yelling for DU, Mines and ��ֱ�� Aggies to beat Boulder transferred their allegiance temporarily to the ��ֱ�� Buffaloes,” said the Denver Post on Dec. 31, 1937.

Buffs fans purchased souvenir Cotton Bowl scarves for 65 cents from major department stores to wear to the game, and anywhere from 6,000 to 7,000 people took one of the five special trains from ��ֱ�� to Dallas for the game. (The train ride from Denver to Dallas took 21 hours.)

An estimated 10,000 ��ֱ�� fans attended the bowl, which resulted in a 14–28 loss to Houston’s Rice University despite an exceptional performance by Buffs halfback Byron “Whizzer” White (Econ’38).

“It was a sensational game and had the fans in a frenzy,” declared the ��ֱ�� Alumnus in January 1938.

In 1987, White’s teammate Francis Stevens (ElEngr’40), who played left guard during the game, donated his Cotton Bowl team jacket to the ��ֱ�� Heritage Center.

1938 Yearbook- Francis Stevens

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Photos by Mona Lambrecht/��ֱ�� Heritage Center

In 1938, the ��ֱ�� Buffaloes made their debut in the Cotton Bowl, with thousands of fans traveling to Dallas to support the team.

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Spring 2025

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��ֱ�� Athletics Achievements: From Soccer to Heisman Honors

Julia Maclean — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 19:30:51 +0000

��ֱ�� Athletics Achievements: From Soccer to Heisman Honors Julia Maclean Mon, 03/10/2025 - 13:30

Soccer Success

��ֱ�� soccer (12-5-5, 4-2-5 Big 12) capped an outstanding season by earning an at-large bid to the 2024 NCAA Tournament.

The Buffaloes upset No. 7 seed Georgia 3-2 on Nov. 15, the program’s first NCAA Tournament win in five years.

While the Buffs stunned Georgia with second-half goals from Shyra James (MediaSt’24) and Hope Leyba (IntPhys’27), the team couldn’t similarly rally to overcome a 2-0 deficit against No. 2 seed Wake Forest in the tournament’s second round, losing 3-1 Nov. 22.

“This team is so resilient,” said head coach Danny Sanchez.

Ranked as high as No.14 nationally, ��ֱ�� overcame their end-of-season 0-2-4 stretch when they defeated Utah in the Big 12 Tournament to earn the at-large bid.

Returning Buffs Faith Leyba (IntPhys’27) and Ava Priest (EnvSt’27) were named First-Team All-Midwest Region, and goalkeeper Jordan Nytes (Soc’26) was selected Third Team All-America.

“We could not be more excited about the future of ��ֱ�� soccer,” said Sanchez.

Buffs Bits

Jenny Simpson (Econ,PolSci’09) retired from professional running after finishing 18th at the New York City Marathon Nov. 3 ... ��ֱ�� football (9-4, 7-2 Big 12) finished its 2024 season Dec. 28 with a 36-14 loss to BYU in the Valero Alamo Bowl. Wide receiver and cornerback Travis Hunter (Psych’26) won the Heisman Trophy on Dec. 14, and quarterback Shedeur Sanders (Soc’25) won the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award as the nation’s top quarterback on Nov. 29. ... Women’s basketball’s Frida Formann (EnvSt’24;MBusAna’25) was named a U.S. Basketball Writers Association National Player of the Week Dec. 24 after she led the Buffs to a 65-60 victory over No. 14 West Virginia. ... Outside hitter Ana Burilović (Psych’27) was named to the 2024 All-Big 12 Volleyball 2nd Team Dec. 3 after finishing seventh in the Big 12 in points per set (4.12) and eighth in kills per set (3.55). … Tennis doubles team Anya Nelson (Bus’26) and Ema Bubalo (Biochem’27) reached the Sweet 16 at the 2024 NCAA Individual Championships in Waco, Texas.

Coach Talk

“Last season was about hope. This season was about expectation, and the expectation this year was to get Ms. Peggy to a bowl game — and we did that.”

— Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders on Dec. 8 after the Buffs were selected to face BYU in the 2024 Valero Alamo Bowl.

Stats

1st

Inaugural Big 12 Lacrosse Championship to be held at ��ֱ��’s Prentup Field, May 1-3, 2025.

Two-time defending national champion UConn’s ranking when upset by ��ֱ�� men’s basketball 73-72 on Nov. 26 in the Maui Invitational.

30th

All-American Dean Casey’s (EnvSt’27) finish in the men’s cross country NCAA Championships Nov. 23 in Madison, Wisconsin.

Men’s golf strokes under par to place second at Hawai’i’s Ka’anapali Classic Collegiate in Lahaina, Maui, Nov. 2-4.

Career-high NBA points by Tristan da Silva (Acct’24) to lead the Orlando Magic to a 106-97 win over the Toronto Raptors Jan. 3.

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Photo courtesy ��ֱ�� Athletics

Women's soccer team advanced in the NCAA tournament, individual athlete honors and achievements across football and basketball.

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Spring 2025

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Q&A with Filip Wahlqvist, Defending National Ski Champion

Julia Maclean — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 17:59:23 +0000

Q&A with Filip Wahlqvist, Defending National Ski Champion Julia Maclean Mon, 03/10/2025 - 11:59

Andrew Daigle

All-American skier Filip Wahlqvist (Fin’27) won the NCAA Championship in slalom and helped lead the Buffs to their 21st National Championship in his first year at ��ֱ��. The Norway native reflects on college skiing’s surprises, small margins when racing, and trusting in himself.

You won four slalom races in 2024, including the national championship. What surprised you about your first year skiing for ��ֱ��?

Before I got here, I didn’t think college racing was a big deal. I spent three years trying to go pro in the World Cup after high school. I assumed college facilities were smaller and had fewer resources. When I got here, I was blown away. What we have at ��ֱ�� is 10 times bigger than our Olympic facilities in Norway where the professionals train. You can’t compare it. ��ֱ�� has personal trainers, nutritionists, tutors and advisors. Everything is incredibly organized and professional.

Does defending the National Championship add pressure to this season?

Not really. Every time I’m on the start gate, I’m going for a victory.

You can’t compare it. ��ֱ�� has personal trainers, nutritionists, tutors and advisors. Everything is incredibly organized and professional.

You race both slalom and giant slalom (GS). What differentiates the two disciplines and how you ski them?

The main difference is the distance between the gates. Slalom is shorter between gates, while GS has longer distances. In slalom, we use shorter skis, knee pads and arm guards. You’re hitting the gates more in slalom, while in GS you go around them more. Slalom skis are 165 centimeters [65”] and GS skis are 193 centimeters [76”]. There’s more action in slalom. The gates come fast, and you need to be precise and focused. Super small margins. You might race for just 50 seconds but cross 60 gates.

How do you balance speed and precision?

GS speed can be about 80 km/h [50 mph], while slalom is like 65 km/h [40 mph]. Speed depends on conditions: icy or soft, the turns, straight or longer courses. But skiing is super technical. It’s probably 80 percent technique, 20 percent speed. If I overthink things, that creates its own stress. You only have two runs (two minutes total of skiing), and one small mistake can cost you.

Is staying calm and confident more from experience or disposition?

I worked with psychological coaches when I was younger because I would ski well in training sessions, but not so much in races. But I’m not sure that worked for me. What helped the most was gaining more skiing experience and finding my mental rhythm. Pressure to win doesn’t have to mean nervousness. ��ֱ�� four years ago, all the unnecessary stress just wasn’t there anymore. In alpine skiing, it can be hundredths of a second between 1st and 12th place. I aim to remember that.

Can you tell us more about skiing internationally before you came to ��ֱ��?

My brother and I were racing in the European Cup. I wasn’t on Norway’s national team, and my club team back home was in other races, so I was on my own a lot. But my brother and I were lucky because we had our dad. He was a World Cup coach for Norway and the U.S. He would set courses for us and go to Italy, France and Germany for races. I had some really good results while racing. After nearly making the national team three times, I decided to race in college and get an education.

What made you want to come here?

My dad went to the University of New Mexico when they had a ski program. He said incredible things about ��ֱ��. The big three schools for college skiing are ��ֱ��, University of Utah and University of Denver. But ��ֱ�� is the best. People help you in both academics and athletics. It was an easy choice when [head alpine coach] Ian [Lochhead] called to ask if I was interested.

Can you share something you’ve learned from coach Lochhead?

To trust in my decisions. I’m far away from home, so I have had to grow up faster and figure things out for myself. If I ask Ian for help, he’s going to do his best to make sure I succeed, but I appreciate how he’s supported me to find trust in myself.

What goals do you have for your future years as a Buff?

To take in the whole college experience: learn as much as possible, make new friends, invest in myself. I love being in the Leeds School of Business. And, of course, with skiing, to do better than last year. Winning the GS. Doing a double — which is winning GS and slalom in one meet — but only if ��ֱ�� wins. We all support each other as teammates.

When you’re off the slopes and not training, what do you like to do?

My mom and dad own a golf course in Norway. When I’m home in the summertime, it’s all about golf. As a student-athlete, you’re always busy, so I haven’t played much golf in ��ֱ�� — only three times — but I brought my clubs from home.

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Photos by Matan Coll

��ֱ�� skier Filip Wahlqvist won the NCAA Championship in slalom and helped lead the Buffs to their 21st National Championship last year.

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Robert Livingston's Impact on ��ֱ�� Football

Julia Maclean — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 17:51:17 +0000

Robert Livingston's Impact on ��ֱ�� Football Julia Maclean Mon, 03/10/2025 - 11:51

Andrew Daigle

��ֱ�� Football (9-4, 7-2 Big 12) claimed its highest number of victories since 2016 and made the 2024 Valero Alamo Bowl. And while Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter (Psych’26) and potential No. 1 2025 NFL Draft pick Shedeur Sanders (Soc’25) received much public acclaim this season, first-year defensive coordinator (DC) Robert Livingston singularly shaped the Buffs’ turnaround.

��ֱ��’s defense struggled mightily in 2023, giving up 34.8 points and 453.3 yards per game. With then-DC Charles Kelly out, Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders had to find a new coordinator to call the defense.

Sanders hired Livingston, a defensive assistant coach with the NFL’s Cincinnati Bengals and former safety at William & Mary, on Feb. 9, 2024. Instead of fitting the defense to his system, Livingston assessed the Buffs’ unique strengths.

“Coach Livingston built the defense of us. He listens to us. It makes it easier,” said leading tackler Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig (Comm’25). “We’re not really thinking out there, we’re just playing.”

Livingston worked throughout 2024 to connect with his squad. He even ran sprints with the defense after a Hunter interception against ��ֱ�� State led to an excessive celebration penalty.

“It’s not me versus you. It’s us. That’s the big thing,” Livingston said. “I want everyone to know they have skin in the game.”

On-field results were dramatic. The Buffs shut out Oklahoma State, frequently played dominant second-half defense and sealed wins over Baylor and Texas Tech with turnovers. In 2024, ��ֱ�� allowed 351.9 yards per game — over 100 yards fewer per game than in 2023.

Even more impressive were the big plays. The Buffs’ defense created 27 turnovers, ranking 7th nationally, and tallied 39 sacks and three defensive touchdowns, both 11th in the nation.

“We’ll strive to be aggressive. I want people to feel us when we play,” said Livingston.

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Photo courtesy ��ֱ�� Athletics

In his first year as defensive coordinator, Robert Livingston dramatically improved the Buffs' defense.

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Setting Up Success: A Q&A with ��ֱ�� Volleyball's Taylor Simpson

Anna Tolette — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 17:16:52 +0000

Setting Up Success: A Q&A with ��ֱ�� Volleyball's Taylor Simpson Anna Tolette Tue, 11/12/2024 - 10:16

Andrew Daigle

Taylor Simpson (Fin’25) is in her final season as setter for ��ֱ�� women’s volleyball. While she calls the plays and touches the ball on nearly every point, Simpson says she is only one of “19 leaders on the team,” and that life after graduation might have to include some volleyball.

As a senior, how do you lead and mentor your teammates?

Communication is key. We have a high standard of holding each other accountable, whether it’s something we want to celebrate or something to improve. We have 19 leaders on the team — a freshman or sophomore can hold a senior accountable. Leadership is cyclical. We’re all kind of leaders, all with different roles and strengths.

Off the court, what helps the team to gel together?

We like to spend as much time together off the court as possible. We eat every meal together — seriously, I’ve eaten every meal in the last three years with my teammates. We appreciate each other as friends, whether that’s hanging out, going to the pool, watching a movie, whatever.

What stands out to you about this year’s team?

We are so close. We have 19 girls who are best friends, and that’s hard to come by. We have a lot of fun. We’re here to work, but we don’t forget our personalities. Last spring, our head coach Jesse Mahoney started “task Tuesdays.” We would get a paper with three tasks on it. Two would be volleyball related and one would be funny. One time, the third task was “Start dancing after you get a kill.” That stuff helps the team stay close.

Why did you choose ��ֱ�� Boulder?

An initial reason was ��ֱ�� being in the Pac-12, because I grew up on the West Coast. But honestly, I could totally see myself here when I came to visit. It’s so beautiful. Plus, the team culture has made it a home away from home. And now, with the move to the Big 12, I am excited to see new places. The conference switch has been great for the university.

What is something you’ve learned from coach Mahoney?

It’s hard to pick one. Coach Jesse is one of the most patient people I’ve met. Being patient is something that I’ve struggled with. He’s calm and collected. That attitude reflects onto the players. That’s helped me a lot in games when I’m frustrated or not playing my best.

How does the setter position work?

People compare the setter to a football quarterback. You run the court. You’re the one controlling everything. Ideally, you touch the ball every play. I find the best hitters to set the ball to and hope we can get a kill.

How do you communicate plays to your teammates?

My coaches pretty much give me free rein with play calls. We have about 20 plays, each with a different hand signal. I call them before serving. If it’s a chaotic situation, the hitters adjust to something simpler. We also watch a lot of film on our opponents — if they’re weak at blocking on the outside, we’ll set the outside as much as possible. Same if we see weaknesses in other areas.

In a match, you might have to set the ball up to 100 times. What kind of training program do you follow to sustain your health and strength?

We’re doing strength, cardio, circuits, power lifts, jumping. Working all parts of our bodies helps keep us in top condition. Nothing is getting too stiff. Nothing is getting weak. Communication with our trainers is so important. If I do something 100 times and it feels off once, I’m communicating that. Recovery and treatment are key as well.

What is your favorite part about playing volleyball?

I love the sport. It’s awesome how rapidly it’s growing. I met all my best friends through volleyball. I’m so grateful for this opportunity. I started playing when I was 9, and it’s hard to imagine my life without it.

How does your team maintain such positive energy on the court?

Staying positive and supportive is one of the hardest skills to learn, even though it’s not physical. It’s something a lot of us have worked on. We do team workshops with our sports psychology staff to learn how to be better teammates. We are truly a family. These are my sisters. We want the best for each other.

What do you like to do off the court?

I love the ocean. The beach is my escape, my happy place. And I love to laugh with friends. It’s super important to joke and have fun.

Do you have plans for after graduation?

I have a wealth management internship. I’ll be taking exams once I graduate to get my financial planner license and my financial advisor license, along with a few others. Right now, that’s my plan. But I could see more volleyball in my future. I don’t know if I’ll be ready to give it up. Ask me in six months.

Interview by Andrew Daigle

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Photos by the University of ��ֱ��

Taylor Simpson (Fin’25) is in her final season as setter for ��ֱ�� women’s volleyball. While she calls the plays and touches the ball on nearly every point, Simpson says she is only one of “19 leaders on the team,” and that life after graduation might have to include some volleyball.

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Fall 2024

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Buffs Hit NBA Draft Success

Anna Tolette — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 17:13:42 +0000

Buffs Hit NBA Draft Success Anna Tolette Tue, 11/12/2024 - 10:13

Andrew Daigle

After men’s basketball made a postseason run that included the program’s first back-to-back NCAA Tournament wins since 1955, the tireless Buffaloes made unprecedented headlines this summer: Three Forever Buffs were drafted to the NBA, Derrick White (Mgmt’17) earned an NBA Championship and Olympic gold, and two hoops legends joined ��ֱ��’s coaching staff.

On June 26, for the first time in Buffs history, two ��ֱ�� Boulder players were chosen during the NBA Draft’s first round. Cody Williams (IntPhys ex’27) went No. 10 to the Utah Jazz and Tristan da Silva (Fin’24) went No. 18 to the Orlando Magic. In the second round, KJ Simpson (LeadCommEngmt’25) was drafted at No. 12 (42nd pick overall) — giving the Buffs their highest-ever ranked draft class.

“You want to help kids achieve their dreams,” said head coach Tad Boyle, who attended the draft. “That’s what college basketball is about.”

Four days later, 2017 first round pick Derrick White kept the Buffs in the headlines when he agreed to a four-year, $125.9 million contract extension, just two weeks after winning the NBA Championship with the Boston Celtics. Soon after, he was named to the U.S. Olympic team, earning a gold medal when the U.S. defeated France 98-87 in the Paris Games.

Following a summer of accolades for past Buffs, ��ֱ��’s 2024–25 squad is reloading in its return to the Big 12 with a coaching staff bolstered by NCAA champion and NBA All-Star Danny Manning and former “Mayor of Boulder” Evan Battey (Jour’21, MSOL’23).

“I’ll bring the energy, the emotion, the experience,” Battey said.

Cody Williams

KJ Simpson

Tristan Da Silva

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Photos credit NBA/ Getty Images

The tireless Buffaloes made headlines this summer: three NBA draft picks, an NBA Championship, Olympic gold and more.

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Anthony Pham on Coaching ��ֱ�� Tennis: It's All ��ֱ�� the Players

Anonymous — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Anthony Pham on Coaching ��ֱ�� Tennis: It's All ��ֱ�� the Players Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 07/16/2024 - 00:00

Andrew Daigle

Anthony Pham was named ��ֱ�� tennis associate head coach in February 2021 and head coach just five months later. Since then, the team has seen a remarkable program turnaround, and they’ve become like family.

What attracted you to ��ֱ��?

We were living in Madison, Wisconsin, and it was the thick of COVID. We were trying to figure out where to live long term. The opportunity at ��ֱ�� was fate. My wife is a ��ֱ�� graduate. When she heard about the coach opening, she said we needed to jump at it. I've never met anyone who went to ��ֱ�� and had a negative experience. And with the tennis program, there was so much potential.

Quickly after arriving, you became the seventh head coach in program history. How did that change your responsibilities and relationships?

I was previously a head coach at a small Division 1 school. Coaching at a mid-major compared to a Power 5 school, budgets and responsibilities are different, but that job prepared me a lot. You have to gain the players’ trust, and they have to know you always have their best interests in mind. Getting the opportunity to become head coach is something I don’t take lightly. As head coach, you’re scheduling, recruiting, doing everything an assistant coach does, but it’s tenfold. The number-one priority doesn’t change. It’s all about the players.

How do you find good people, not just good players?

We try to be as thorough as possible. The team is an extended part of my family. We spend so much time with these players. On a small team, one person can upset the balance. In terms of recruiting, we visit with them and their family. We talk to their coaches and other coaches. There are a lot of good tennis players, but there aren’t as many tennis players who are also good people and good students.

What goes into building a competitive Power 5 conference tennis program?

We focus on development. We find people for whom the best tennis is still ahead. Kids start playing tennis early, and sometimes they burn out. We want student-athletes who want to keep improving, to be part of a program that is making headway and doing things that haven’t been done before.

How would you describe your leadership style?

I empower players to know that when they play, they are prepared. They are going to compete in a first-class manner. We want to win like crazy, but it’s not all about winning. It’s about doing the right things every day. You can’t really control winning and losing, but you can control a lot of variables that go into winning. Obviously, if we don’t have success, we reassess some things and try again.

Can you coach players during matches?

If you go to a normal junior tournament as a coach, you’re not allowed to coach at all. You can only cheer. But with college, it’s completely different. We can sit on the sideline with our players and talk to them at every changeover. You have to know when to talk, which buttons to push and when to keep your mouth shut if your player is rolling.

How are the fall and spring seasons different?

Spring is the championship season. It’s when we play our dual and conference matches. Fall is shorter. It’s our developmental season. We bring a player in, and we will make some minor adjustments to their game. We start setting our standards, creating expectations with players, building the bond within the team. In the fall, we’re giving them two or three things to focus on. And the hope is when the spring season comes around, those things that were uncomfortable in the fall are now strengths.

What stands out to you about ��ֱ�� Athletics?

It starts at the top. Rick George is the most personal athletic director I’ve been around. At matches, he’s fired up, he knows all the players, and all the players know him. And we have great academic support, nutrition, trainers, an amazing strength coach. ��ֱ�� offers the best of three worlds: great location, great academics, top-notch athletics.

Can you speak to what college tennis offers that differs from training academies or private coaching?

Tennis is a very individual sport. Growing up, if you’re playing a tournament, it’s usually you and your coach or a parent. College is completely different. You’re on a team, and everyone is committed. The more you improve as individuals, the more it helps the team. When we play a match, there’s energy from court to court. Your teammates are pumping you up, supporting you. When you’re playing a tournament by yourself, whether you win or lose affects maybe a couple people. With college tennis, there are so many others affected.

What’s something you like to do off the court?

I love spending time with my wife and son. They come to all our matches, they’re great supporters. Whether I’m with our team here or my family at home, that's where I find the most enjoyment.

Interview by Andrew Daigle.

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Photos by Glenn Asakawa

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Shedeur Sanders Readies for Second Season

Anonymous — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Shedeur Sanders Readies for Second Season Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 07/16/2024 - 00:00

Andrew Daigle

On April 27, 2024, Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders (Soc’25) made a welcome return to Folsom Field for the team’s annual Black and Gold Game. Sanders finished 10-14 for 116 yards and a touchdown in the rain-shortened scrimmage.

“We were comfortable, seeing everything eye-to-eye. Everybody got to showcase their talents today,” said Sanders.

Sanders was one of 57 transfers to join the Buffs in 2023. While this offseason has had similar turnover with more than 40 transfers, the difference is elevated personnel.

“We have a plethora of receivers, and I cannot wait to see them work together this summer. Shedeur is going to be the happiest man in the building,” said head coach Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders.

Four months stand between the Spring Game and August 29 opener against North Dakota State, giving Shedeur Sanders the opportunity to connect with new receivers and a revamped offensive line.

“I talk a lot to the receivers about the reads and progressions. I hang out with my offensive linemen. We go eat. We cook. We do everything together. That’s where we build our bond,” said Sanders.

Sanders, projected to be ranked as high as No. 1 in the 2025 NFL Draft after throwing for 3,230 yards and 27 touchdowns in 2023, is intent on improving his off-the-field leadership.

“I can become more vocal. On the field, they know what they’re getting. But off the field, you need to let guys know they’re always valued,” said Sanders.

With ��ֱ�� returning to the Big 12 this season, Coach Prime has promised a talent overhaul and a bowl game to famed ��ֱ�� superfan Peggy Coppom (A&S’46).

"[We have] another caliber of player, a player that truly expects to go to the next level," Coach Prime said. “They want the physicality, they want all the smoke.”

But the offseason is far from over.

"This summer is definitely going to be a grind," said Sanders.

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Photo courtesy University of ��ֱ��

As football’s QB1 gears up for a second year leading the Buffs, he’s focused on embracing change and building on a transcendent debut season.

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Segging Her Own Way

Anonymous — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Segging Her Own Way Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 03/04/2024 - 00:00

Andrew Daigle

Nordic skier Hanna Abrahamsson (EnvEngr’25) entered this season as a three-time 1st Team All-American and a 2nd Team Academic All-American. Originally from Eksjö, Sweden, here she discusses endurance training, why she came to ��ֱ�� and ski culture back home.

You finished 2nd in classic and 5th in freestyle at the 2023 NCAA Championships. What was key to your success?

I was struggling with injuries during the training season, so my expectations weren’t super high. But when the season came, I performed better than ever before. I’ve trained since I was young in Sweden and on the national team for a couple of years. Sometimes when you train a lot, you’re not getting better at the time, but if you allow your body to rest, you get payback later.

How do you approach a race?

We start individually or in a mass. I prefer individuals because you set your own pace. With the mass start, it’s more tactics. You have to run out at the top to get some meters on the others. It’s a mental game as well. My best skill is to keep a pretty high speed for a very long time. We have a word for it in Swedish — to be really “seg.”

What is offseason training like?

Summer is when we get in the greatest volume of training. You can do different sports and still improve your skiing. It’s all about getting your heartbeat up. I do a lot of roller skiing, plus running and the SkiErg machine. During the summer, I do 18 to 25 hours of conditioning and two sessions of strength training each week. As it gets closer to ski season, volume decreases and intensity increases.

Do you still race for Sweden’s National Team?

Sweden’s Nordic team is the best in the world. It’s hard to get a spot. There’s also this assumption that you’re retiring when you go to the U.S. I really don’t like that! I wanted to continue skiing but do it in another way than everyone at home. I get to see a new country, get an education and get so much more out of my skiing. But that said, when you choose to go here, you’re not really included in the skiing community at home. I’m pretty sure I could have beaten Swedes who qualified for the U23 [ages 21–23] World Championships last year, but I was not taken.

Why did you choose ��ֱ��?

I wanted to get something else out of skiing. Several people suggested that college skiing might suit me. I contacted a Swede, Hedda Baangman (IntPhys’20), who was skiing for ��ֱ�� a couple years ago. She was like, “You have to do it!” I got coach Jana’s [Weinberger] information and contacted her. Then I quickly decided on ��ֱ��.

Can you share something you’ve learned from Jana Weinberger, skiing director and Nordic head coach?

She is very good at looking at your entire life, including your school schedule. Then we build in training that’s well suited to everything going on.

What do you love most about skiing?

I like to race, but the part I like most is training and being outside. Here in ��ֱ�� and everywhere we travel to, the surroundings are gorgeous. I’m so thankful for that. When it comes to skiing itself, it’s all about pushing myself and challenging my body.

Do you prefer to ski classic or freestyle?

Classic. Even though I practice skate [freestyle] more, I am always better in classic. Skate or freestyle is like ice skating. With classic, you have your skis in a groomed track. You have ski wax under your skis so you’re running, or striding, on your skis.

Does ��ֱ�� hosting the 2024 NCAA Championships at Steamboat Springs in March add pressure to this season?

Yes, but we can handle it.

What’s something readers would be surprised to learn about you?

We don’t have snow where I'm from in Sweden. Also, I live for training days when I do six hours of running. Or three hours on the SkiErg with intervals.

What do you want to do after you graduate?

I want to show people at home that you can go to the U.S. and become better. Skiing is an old tradition and culture in Sweden. It can [feel like being in] a box, even if it’s starting to change. I want to do the national team again and ski races to qualify for the World Cup, but in my way. I’ve learned a lot about myself since I came here. I would also love to do longer races. Nordic skiing has distance teams like with cycling and the Tour de France. Long-distance skiing suits me.

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Photos courtesy ��ֱ�� Athletics

Nordic skier Hanna Abrahamsson entered this season as a three-time 1st Team All-American and a 2nd Team Academic All-American.

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Spring 2024

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Sports Briefs

Anonymous — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Sports Briefs Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 03/04/2024 - 00:00

Andrew Daigle

Anne Kelly Retiring After 27 Years

Women’s golf head coach Anne Kelly will retire after the 2023–24 season. The program’s second full-time head coach, she has led the Buffaloes since 1997 and is the longest-tenured female head coach in ��ֱ�� Athletics history.

Under Kelly, ��ֱ�� has gone to regionals eight times and NCAAs twice. Golfers’ achievements include five entries to regionals, nine All-Americans and 24 All-America Scholars.

“[I’m] primarily proud of so many of the young women who have played for ��ֱ�� and the amazing, successful and caring adults they have become,” Kelly said.

Kelly received the 2023 Kim Evans Award for lifetime contributions to the sport from the Women’s Golf Coaches Association.

��ֱ�� athletic director Rick George announced that associate head coach Madeleine Sheils will succeed Kelly as head coach starting in 2024–25.

“[Kelly’s] kindness, patience and humor are the foundations of ��ֱ�� women’s golf, and I have big shoes to fill as I follow a coach who has positively influenced so many lives,” said Sheils.

Buffs Bits

��ֱ�� football finished 4-8 (1-8 Pac-12) in Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders’ first season as head coach. Sanders was named the Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year in November 2023. Cornerback and wide receiver Travis Hunter (Psych’26) won the Paul Hornig Award as the Nation’s Most Versatile Player and was a consensus First- Team All-American and Academic All-American. … Cross-country women and men finished 19th and 25th respectively at the NCAA Championships in Charlottesville, Virginia. … Lexi Hadrych (MSOL’23), Skyy Howard (MA&S’23) and Maya Tabron (Bus Ana, Mktg’24) received All-Pac-12 Volleyball Honorable Mentions. The Buffs finished the 2023 season 16-15 (8-12 Pac-12). … Women’s basketball’s Jaylyn Sherrod (Soc’22; MSOL’24) was named Associated Press National Player of the Week on Jan. 2. She had a career-high 34 points in a 76-65 win over No. 12 Utah on Dec. 30. … On Jan. 10, guard KJ Simpson (Comm’25) was named to the midseason watch list for the Wooden Award All America Team and Most Outstanding Player Award.

Coach Talk

“They do it, they reconnect, we come back together, refocus and just make sure we’re all locked in and on the same page.”

— Women’s basketball head coach JR Payne after the No. 5 Buffs defeated No. 8 Stanford 71-59 on Jan. 14.

Digits

1st

First year alpine skier Filip Wahlqvist (Bus’27) won the first two races of his career Jan. 17 and 18 in Park City, Utah.

1.76

Meters cleared by track and field’s Allie Routledge (EnvEngr’24) to win the women’s high jump at Air Force on Jan.

3rd

Morgan Miller’s (StComm’26) finish at the 2023 Miami Hurricane Invitational to close the fall season for women’s golf.

7-0

Tennis defeated UC Riverside in its spring season opener on Jan. 14 in Riverside, California.

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Photo courtesy ��ֱ�� Athletics

Women's golf head coach Anne Kelly retiring, Coach Prime as Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year and more.

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Spring 2024

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Sports

A Historic Cotton Bowl Journey for the ����ֱ�� Buffs

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����ֱ�� Athletics Achievements: From Soccer to Heisman Honors

Soccer Success

Buffs Bits

Coach Talk

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Q&A with Filip Wahlqvist, Defending National Ski Champion

You won four slalom races in 2024, including the national championship. What surprised you about your first year skiing for ����ֱ��?

Does defending the National Championship add pressure to this season?

You race both slalom and giant slalom (GS). What differentiates the two disciplines and how you ski them?

How do you balance speed and precision?

Is staying calm and confident more from experience or disposition?

Can you tell us more about skiing internationally before you came to ����ֱ��?

What made you want to come here?

Can you share something you’ve learned from coach Lochhead?

What goals do you have for your future years as a Buff?

When you’re off the slopes and not training, what do you like to do?

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Robert Livingston's Impact on ����ֱ�� Football

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Setting Up Success: A Q&A with ����ֱ�� Volleyball's Taylor Simpson

As a senior, how do you lead and mentor your teammates?

Off the court, what helps the team to gel together?

What stands out to you about this year’s team?

Why did you choose ����ֱ�� Boulder?

What is something you’ve learned from coach Mahoney?

How does the setter position work?

How do you communicate plays to your teammates?

In a match, you might have to set the ball up to 100 times. What kind of training program do you follow to sustain your health and strength?

What is your favorite part about playing volleyball?

How does your team maintain such positive energy on the court?

What do you like to do off the court?

Do you have plans for after graduation?

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Buffs Hit NBA Draft Success

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Anthony Pham on Coaching ����ֱ�� Tennis: It's All ����ֱ�� the Players

What attracted you to ����ֱ��?

Quickly after arriving, you became the seventh head coach in program history. How did that change your responsibilities and relationships?

How do you find good people, not just good players?

What goes into building a competitive Power 5 conference tennis program?

How would you describe your leadership style?

Can you coach players during matches?

How are the fall and spring seasons different?

What stands out to you about ����ֱ�� Athletics?

Can you speak to what college tennis offers that differs from training academies or private coaching?

What’s something you like to do off the court?

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Shedeur Sanders Readies for Second Season

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Segging Her Own Way

You finished 2nd in classic and 5th in freestyle at the 2023 NCAA Championships. What was key to your success?

How do you approach a race?

What is offseason training like?

Do you still race for Sweden’s National Team?

Why did you choose ����ֱ��?

Can you share something you’ve learned from Jana Weinberger, skiing director and Nordic head coach?

What do you love most about skiing?

Do you prefer to ski classic or freestyle?

Does ����ֱ�� hosting the 2024 NCAA Championships at Steamboat Springs in March add pressure to this season?

What’s something readers would be surprised to learn about you?

What do you want to do after you graduate?

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Sports Briefs

Anne Kelly Retiring After 27 Years

Buffs Bits

Coach Talk

Digits

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A Historic Cotton Bowl Journey for the ��ֱ�� Buffs

��ֱ�� Athletics Achievements: From Soccer to Heisman Honors

You won four slalom races in 2024, including the national championship. What surprised you about your first year skiing for ��ֱ��?

Can you tell us more about skiing internationally before you came to ��ֱ��?

Robert Livingston's Impact on ��ֱ�� Football

Setting Up Success: A Q&A with ��ֱ�� Volleyball's Taylor Simpson

Why did you choose ��ֱ�� Boulder?

Anthony Pham on Coaching ��ֱ�� Tennis: It's All ��ֱ�� the Players

What attracted you to ��ֱ��?

What stands out to you about ��ֱ�� Athletics?

Why did you choose ��ֱ��?

Does ��ֱ�� hosting the 2024 NCAA Championships at Steamboat Springs in March add pressure to this season?