The Michigan Wolverines hired Kyle Whittingham last winter as they enter a new era in Ann Arbor.
Athletic Director Warde Manuel praised Whittingham’s work with the program’s identity ahead of his first season. Manuel spoke with ESPN’s Pete Thamel at the Big Ten spring meetings about why Whittingham fits the program’s long-term vision.
“I always aim for steadiness, believe me. This is not anything that I’ve desired or wanted or hoped for, but I deal with it, and then you know my goal as a leader is to provide the steadiness to the rest of the department, and my staff, and student-athletes, and I think I and we have done that as a department in the organization. I don’t take any of it lightly.”
Manuel believes Whittingham’s approach provides the stability Michigan needs moving forward.
The athletic director highlighted positive feedback from players about the new coaching staff.
“Listen, the vibe’s been awesome. And I take the cue from a lot of our student-athletes and their feedback about how things are going. They really enjoy Kyle, the staff and the way things are going.”
Manuel addressed Michigan’s position in college football’s changing landscape. He dismissed speculation about the Wolverines pursuing an independent path as the sport continues evolving.
“You know, the world changes. You just have to be prepared, but I’m happy and Michigan is happy being a part of the Big Ten.”
The athletic director acknowledged past challenges while emphasizing the program’s commitment to improvement.
“My goal is to limit the impact that it has on the great people that we have in our department. But we deal with it. And we learn from it. And we get better. That’s what I’ve always tried to do. That’s what I was taught to do by my mom and dad, and Bo Schembechler and a lot of great leaders along the way.”
Whittingham will begin his first season leading the Wolverines this fall.
