Sierra Taylor

Q: As your father was a former Michigan Football player and captain what advice did he give to you in following him?

A: He just told me to stay out of jail. I was a bad boy. He figured I could handle the football team. He worried about everything else.

 

Q: Was the concept of the “Michigan Man” important in your time as a student-athlete? If so, in what way?

A: No, during my time at Michigan the “Michigan Man” concept wasn’t a common phrase. I maybe head it once or twice but it wasn’t a big deal. I think it was an important idea before and after I left but the coaches during my time never really brought it up.

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Q: Who was the head football coach while you were at Michigan and what impression did he make on you?

A: Bump Elliott was the head football coach while I played. He was a great guy with great energy. Truly a great person which made him a better coach.

 

Q: Who was the head basketball coach while you were at Michigan and what impression did he make on you?

A: Dave Strack. He didn’t make too much of an impression on me. Just a run of the mill kind of coach.

 

Q: In your eyes what makes a great coach?

A: First and foremost a great coach has the respect of his players. He’s also a good strategist and knows the opposing team's’ weaknesses. Coaches that do their homework and show their players consistent preparation and readiness stand out.

 

Q: As a captain what was your relationship like with the coaches?

A: As a captain, your relationship with coaches is a bit tricky. They tried to be as supportive of me as possible but would they would also support the other players in the same manner. I didn’t get too much special attention and made sure not to overstep.

 

Q: Which coach impacted your life most significantly? How?

A: Easy. Bob Quiring of Kalamazoo Central High School. Fabulous leader and demanded 120% from everybody. He took no s***t from anybody. Loved his intensity.

 

Q: Based on your experience at Michigan what are your thoughts on Jim Harbaugh?

A: Harbaugh is okay. He fits the Michigan image pretty well. But he must start winning.  I think he makes a lot of dumb mistakes honestly.

 

Q: What was the recruiting process like you for you and how has it changed?

A: Benny Oosterbaan was the coach when I came.  And there was no recruiting!!!  That is why I could play.  I came to Michigan to play Basketball. He convinced me to play Football too!

 

Q: What’s your favorite Michigan football or basketball memory?

A: Loved all the player's and most are still my best friends.  Lot less pressure in those days. There’s a lot of pressure today. I’d imagine a lot less fun.

 

Q: Have you noticed any distinct changes in coaching from when you were a player to now?

A: Lot more pressure nowadays. There was a lot less emphasis on athletics to win in my days. It wasn’t so intense. Today is harder on players and coaches don’t recognize it. We were more academic- we went to school to learn. I was in the Engineering School & went to grad school for Business.

 

Q: Anything significant about your experience with college athletics coaches you would like to add?

A:  I Had the best 5 years of my life. Loved every minute. It was a very social environment and the coaches allowed and encouraged us to enjoy everything about school. Not just the sport we were playing.