Welcome to Varsity Magazine -- an online-only publication that serves as The Official Online Magazine of Wisconsin Athletics.

The venture is a product of the UW Athletic Communications office and is delivered via BuckyMail each Thursday during the academic year and on a monthly basis over the summer. It will also be available online at UWBadgers.com each Thursday.

Anyone wishing to receive the free publication each week can do so by registering with BuckyMail and selecting the "Weekly News from Badger Athletics" checkbox.

Varsity - April 26, 2012

April 26, 2012 - Volume 2, Issue 38
• The three QBs taking snaps this spring have taken very different paths

• Nick Toon has a resource in All-Pro father Al as he prepares for NFL draft

• Mike Lucas talks with newcomer Dan Voltz about making the adjustment to center

• Barry Alvarez offers his take on the benefits of spring football games


Varsity - April 19, 2012

April 19, 2012 - Volume 2, Issue 37
• Wisconsin's new assistant coaches each face unique challenges in transition to UW

• A difficult collegiate season for UW could pay dividends for wrestlers at the Olympic trials

• Mike Lucas looks at growth of WR tandem Chase Hammond and Marquis Mason

• Barry Alvarez says bringing an open mind is key to latest BCS meetings


Varsity - April 12, 2012

April 12, 2012 - Volume 2, Issue 36
• Wisconsin's dual success in football and men's basketball a rare feat nationally

• A chance encounter brought volleyball player Maria Van Abel to the UW softball team

• Mike Lucas says new coach Zach Azzanni is pushing for more from wide receivers

• 'The Voice' says UW men's hoops shouldn't mess with 'Wisconsin Way'


Varsity - April 5, 2012

April 5, 2012 - Volume 2, Issue 35
• Behind the scenes of the Badgers' football strength and conditioning program

• A look at the unique, specialized workouts of five Wisconsin teams

• Mike Lucas examines the Badgers' cutting-edge nutrition program

• 'The Voice' says it's time to help boost the regular season in men's basketball


Varsity - March 29, 2012

March 29, 2012 - Volume 2, Issue 34
• Travis Frederick has big shoes to fill, but the junior is ready to lead on the O-line

• Once again, Justin Schultz has to decide whether to return to UW or jump to the NHL

• Transfer QB Danny O'Brien found a "home" when he visited Wisconsin

• 'The Voice' looks back on a memorable season for the men's basketball team


Varsity - March 22, 2012

March 22, 2012 - Volume 2, Issue 33
• Typically tough, the Badgers fought their way to Boston by standing their ground

• The Badgers are focused on instilling the ‘Wisconsin way’ as spring football kicks off

• Barry Alvarez says gritty basketball team shares winning traits with football Badgers

• 'The Voice' looks at Gasser's gutty performance, next challenge for Badgers


Varsity - March 15, 2012

March 15, 2012 - Volume 2, Issue 32
• Badgers look back on favorite tournament memories, ahead to facing Montana

• Women's hockey knows what to expect as it heads to Frozen Four in search of title

• Revealing the "All-Bielema Team" as voted on by fans

• 'The Voice' reflects on Rob Wilson's 30-point explosion, Bo Ryan's record win


Varsity - March 8, 2012

March 8, 2012 - Volume 2, Issue 31
• What has made the Badgers so consistently successful? Insiders say it's no secret

• Catching up with former Badger and impact NFL rookie J.J. Watt

• Mike Lucas talks NFL draft prep with projected first-rounder Peter Konz

• 'The Voice' says a rugged Big Ten leads to a difficult all-conference ballot


Varsity - March 1, 2012

March 1, 2012 - Volume 2, Issue 30
• Looking at the legacy Jordan Taylor leaves behind for the Badgers

• Catching up with Russell Wilson and Nick Toon as they prepare for the NFL draft

• Bret Bielema talks about changes his NCAA rules committee will enact for 2012

• 'The Voice' thinks a tough-minded Badgers team will be a tough out in March


Varsity - February 23, 2012

February 23, 2012 - Volume 2, Issue 29
• Rob Wilson is using hoops and his heart to help local kids at the Boys & Girls Club

• Japheth Cato is re-writing the record book and seeks to defend his Big Ten title

• Back in Madison, Scott Tolzien still gains much from giving back at children's hospital

• 'The Voice' puts Badgers' NCAA tournament streak into perspective


Varsity - February 16, 2012

February 16, 2012 - Volume 2, Issue 28
• Exclusive inside access to a road trip with the men's basketball team

• Wurtz was raised to play hoops but has taken her game to another level at UW

• Barry Alvarez addresses issues surrounding WIAA state championships

• 'The Voice' reflects on the Badgers' unexpected group of champions in 2001-02


Varsity - February 9, 2012

February 9, 2012 - Volume 2, Issue 27
• Taylor among Minnesota natives part of Badgers' northern pipeline

• Bielema rounds out coaching staff with hire of UW alum Eddie Faulkner

• An exclusive inside look as La Bahn Arena takes shape

• 'The Voice' is on board with a proposed college football playoff


Varsity - February 2, 2012

February 2, 2012 - Volume 2, Issue 26
• Early enrollees Etienne, Jackson, Voltz get head start on becoming Badgers

• Profiles on each member of the Badgers' 2012 National Signing Day class

• Looking back on last year's historic win for Badgers over No. 1 Ohio State

• 'The Voice' says streaking Badgers' biggest challenge comes vs. OSU


Varsity - January 26, 2012

January 26, 2012 - Volume 2, Issue 25
• Jared Berggren's resurgence has gone hand-in-hand with UW's turnaround

• Scoring machine Brianna Decker packs a big heart into a small package on the ice

• Get to know new assistant football coaches Mike Markuson and Andy Buh

• 'The Voice' reflects on the life and career of legendary radio man Jim Irwin


Varsity - January 19, 2012

January 19, 2012 - Volume 2, Issue 24
• Three sports, three All-Americans. An exclusive, insightful roundtable discussion with
  Badgers stars Montee Ball, Justin Schultz and Jordan Taylor

• Get to know new football assistant coaches Matt Canada and Zach Azzanni

• 'The Voice' looks at a wild, wide-open race for the Big Ten in men's hoops


Varsity - January 12, 2012

January 12, 2012 - Volume 2, Issue 23
• Bielema hits recruiting trail in search of assistants to fill coaching vacancies

• Peter Konz reflects on the difficult decision to declare for the NFL draft

• George Marshall is learning -- and teaching -- during a redshirt season

• 'The Voice' says now is not the time to worry about the Badgers


Varsity - January 5, 2012

January 5, 2012 - Volume 2, Issue 22
• Exclusive interview: Montee Ball discusses his decision to return to the Badgers

• Wisconsin reached for the Rose but got the thorns in 45-38 loss to Oregon

• Why walk on? Dan Fahey and J.D. Wise say it's for love of the game -- and team

• 'The Voice' puts a tough week for Badgers fans into perspective


Varsity - December 29, 2011

December 29, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 21
• Tackle machines Chris Borland and Mike Taylor anchor defense for Rose Bowl

• To no one's surprise, Jared Abbrederis has continued to grow into WR role

• One of game's greats, Ron Dayne set for Rose Bowl Hall of Fame induction

• 'The Voice' offers a reminder for the Rose Bowl: Don't forget about the defense


Varsity - December 22, 2011

December 22, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 20
• Reflecting on a fantastic season of Badger football

• From Nebraska to the Big Ten title game, a look back on the big moments

• Mike Lucas attempts to single out a play as the Badgers' best this year

• 'The Voice' takes a look at what makes a good head coaching hire


Varsity - December 15, 2011

December 15, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 19
• Hilary Knight is UW's all-time scoring leader, but her real goal is another title

• Behind the scenes of Montee Ball's awards tour of Orlando and New York

• The Big Ten's leading 3-point shooter, Josh Gasser is playing with confidence

• 'The Voice' says bowl season the time to cheer for the common good


Varsity - December 8, 2011

December 8, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 18
• Badgers' rally to win Big Ten title rooted in refusal to lose

• Lucas: Badgers-Spartans sequel deserving of 'classic' title

• Freshman Frank Kaminsky contributing early for men's basketball

• 'The Voice' says he got it all wrong as the Badgers got it right


Varsity - December 1, 2011

December 1, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 17
• First Big Ten title game offers Badgers a second chance at Spartans

• UW's success starts up front. Meet the man behind the offensive line

• Picking up the pace in the offseason has Ryan Evans up to speed for UW

• 'The Voice' looks at an intensifying rivalry between the Badgers and Spartans


Varsity - November 24, 2011

November 24, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 16
• Russell Wilson has quickly become entrenched in Badger family

• Badgers reflect on winning fifth NCAA cross country championship

• Traevon Jackson looking to make an early impact for men's basketball

• 'The Voice' reflects on importance of Senior Day for football team


Varsity - November 17, 2011

November 17, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 15
• Examining Montee Ball's growth into a Heisman Trophy contender

• Injury forces change on O-line heading into final road test at Illinois

• No. 1 men's cross country puts team goals first heading to NCAAs

• 'The Voice' finds therapy from sports scandals in watching games


Varsity - November 10, 2011

November 10, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 14
• Bo Ryan is back with a familiar lesson plan for his new class

• The battle for Paul Bunyan's Axe has UW playing defense this week

• Michael Finley's generosity aimed at keeping UW strong on the court

• 'The Voice' looks back on some of the best in Border Battle history


Varsity - November 3, 2011

November 3, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 13
• Usually reserved linebacker Mike Taylor is finding his voice as a leader

• NASCAR nut Ben Brust is doing all he can to get up to speed for Badgers

• Barry Alvarez offers his take on recent moves by the NCAA

• 'The Voice' maps out Wisconsin's more difficult road to Indianapolis


Varsity - October 27, 2011

October 27, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 12
• Once again, Badgers look for a win over Ohio State to get back on track

• Men's soccer team has surged into Big Ten, NCAA tourney contention

• Badgers captain Patrick Butrym was down but never out after suffering injury

• 'The Voice' examines tricky subject of hindsight in assessing coaches' calls


Varsity - October 20, 2011

October 20, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 11
• Football's first road trip promises major challenge in No. 15 Spartans

• The Bobbie Kelsey era has begun for the women's basketball team

• Aaron Henry has accepted, and embraced, his role in the Badgers' secondary

• 'The Voice' believes football matchup with Spartans an opportunity for UW


Varsity - October 13, 2011

October 13, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 10
• Badgers' goal is to keep foot on the gas coming out of bye week

• Women's cross country embraces Badgers' distance running heritage

• Jacob Pedersen didn't take the easy road, and his decision is paying off

• 'The Voice' says it's time for Wisconsin sports fans to soak in the success


Varsity - October 6, 2011

October 6, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 9
• Justin Schultz's return is one reason men's hockey is optimistic for 2011-12

• Checking in with football after an impressive 5-0 start to the season

• Bo Ryan is bound for yet two more halls of fame, but his work is far from done

• 'The Voice' looks at what makes Russell Wilson so special under center


Varsity - September 29, 2011

September 29, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 8
• Badgers will be tested as Nebraska comes to Camp Randall for Big Ten debut

• Looking back on UW's upset of Nebraska in Huskers' last visit to Madison

• Nick Toon carries a familiar name, but he is set on leaving his own legacy

• 'The Voice' looks at the hype surrounding UW's big matchup with Huskers


Varsity - September 22, 2011

September 22, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 7
• Mark Johnson has women's hockey prepared for a run at a fifth national title

• Badgers' defense clearly focused on continuing strong start to season

• Checking in with women's soccer as Badgers begin Big Ten play

• 'The Voice' says Bielema making a name for himself, however you say it


Varsity - September 15, 2011

September 15, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 6
• Badgers prepare to face a familiar foe in Doeren-led Northern Illinois

• Marcus Cromartie's journey has carried him to starting role in secondary

• Freshman Courtney Thomas is wise beyond her years in terms of leadership

• 'The Voice' tackles the topic of tacky uniforms in college football


Varsity - September 8, 2011

September 8, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 5
• Remembering 9/11: A look back on the events of the week the games stopped

• Iraq veteran Greg Russo living out dream with UW football team

• Jared Abbrederis catching on as major threat for Badgers at receiver

• 'The Voice' looks back on how tragedy of 9/11 brought out sports' best


Varsity - August 30, 2011

August 30, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 4
• Healed and in a new position, Chris Borland is ready for UW's opener

• Pete Waite has volleyball climbing against a rugged Big Ten Conference

• Offensive line will be key to Badgers' success on offense

• 'The Voice' tells you what to watch for as Badgers open season


Varsity - August 23, 2011

August 23, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 3
• It hasn't taken long for QB Russell Wilson and WR Nick Toon to get on same page

• John Trask is committed to the process of building the men's soccer program

• Depth up front should be major strength for Badgers' defense

• 'The Voice' cautions NCAA against "collateral damage" when doling out punishment


Varsity - August 16, 2011

August 16, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 2
• Inside the dynamic of UW's backfield duo, Montee Ball and James White

• Coach Paula Wilkins discusses the state of the women's soccer program

• How losing weight has helped football's Beau Allen gain confidence this fall

• 'The Voice' tackles rules changes that could make a big impact on Saturdays


Varsity - August 9, 2011

August 9, 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 1
• Mike Lucas sits down with Bret Bielema to discuss the state of UW football

• Offensive coordinator Paul Chryst talks about the Badgers' QB competition

• New men's golf coach Michael Burcin has a plan to build the Badgers

• 'The Voice' sees a lesson in the way Jon Budmayr handles himself


Varsity - July 13, 2011

July 13, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 25
• NCAA champion Tim Hacker is now leading cardiovascular research at UW

• Catching up with Rose Bowl QBs Darrell Bevell, Mike Samuel and Brooks Bollinger

• Kevin and Lizzy Stemke met as Badgers and are now husband and wife

• "Where Are They Now?" profiles of greats from Badger history


Varsity - June 14, 2011

June 14, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 24
• Taylor, Tolzien look back on wins over No. 1 Ohio State

• With a fourth NCAA title, Mark Johnson happy to be home in Madison

• Title in hand, Maggie Meyer sets her sights on London Olympics

• A look back at the year in photos, featuring top images of 2010-11


Varsity - May 10, 2011

May 10, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 23
• Jon Leuer continues to work as he inches closer to NBA dream

• Men's track duo Beth, Rucks move from back of pack to contenders

• Softball's turnaround comes ahead of coaching staff's expectations

• Lockout keeps undrafted Gilreath, Tolzien awaiting free agent chances


Varsity - April 26, 2011

April 26, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 22
• Mike Lucas puts a wrap on football's spring practice

• Buckinghams a celebration of student-athletes' accomplishments

• Jordan Taylor prepares to take game to next level as a senior

• Ruth Hirsch honored to serve as Grand Marshall for 'Crazylegs'


Varsity - April 19, 2011

April 19, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 21
• Jon Budmayr is ready to step in as Badgers' starting QB

• Shelton Johnson looks to solidify spot in secondary

• In Moffitt, Travis Frederick has big shoes to fill on offensive line

• 'The Voice' offers some things to watch for in Spring Game


Varsity - April 12, 2011

April 12, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 20
• Bobbie Kelsey tabbed to take over women's basketball program

• Softball's Mary Massei already a cancer survivor at age 19

• Pieces in place as Badgers put together new-look defensive line

• 'The Voice' says it's easy to be proud of Badgers' accomplishments


Varsity - April 4, 2011

April 5, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 19
• Ricky Wagner steps from behind big shadows to take over at left tackle

• New coach Huxtable excited to work with linebacker corps

• Abbrederis continues to learn on the job as leading spring receiver

• 'The Voice' says NCAA tourney just fine despite expansion


Varsity - March 29, 2011

March 29, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 18
• A look at what's next for Badgers team that loses six seniors

• Football begins process of building a foundation for the fall

• Herbert offers insight on winter gains in the weight room

• 'The Voice' puts Badgers' Sweet 16 finish into perspective


Varsity - March 22, 2011

March 22, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 17
• Bo Ryan's brand of basketball continues to work for Badgers

• Women's hockey claims fourth national championship

• Quarterback question among issues facing UW in spring practice

• 'The Voice' takes a look at Badgers' Sweet 16 run


Varsity - March 15, 2011

March 15, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 16
• Men's basketball looks to bounce back as Badgers open NCAA tourney

• Duggan leads women's hockey back to Frozen Four

• Video: Barry Davis and the Badgers talk NCAA championships

• 'The Voice' says it's never a surprise to see the Badgers dancing


Varsity - March 8, 2011

March 8, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 15
• Women's hockey's Brianna Decker has thrived playing on UW's first line

• Scott Tolzien working for a chance to play in the NFL

• An interview with Badgers fan and PGA Tour pro Steve Stricker

• 'The Voice' says Badgers can deal with budding rivalry with Ohio State


Varsity - March 1, 2011

March 1, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 14
• Men's basketball's senior class has built lasting relationships

• After season-ending injury, Tara Steinbauer adjusts to life as "student coach"

• Teammates rally around injured former Badger goaltender Kirk Daubenspeck

• 'The Voice' says best is yet to come for freshman Josh Gasser


Varsity - Feb. 22, 2011

Feb. 22, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 13
• Men's track team looks to race back to top of Big Ten

• Demontie Cross finally makes it to Madison as UW's newest assistant coach

• A video tribute to the women's basketball senior class

• 'The Voice' talks early departures and their effect on NCAA hoops


Varsity - Feb. 15, 2011

Feb. 15, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 12
• Justin Schultz proves the best defense involves some offense

• Re-live the Badger's win over No. 1 Ohio State

• Swimming's Maggie Meyer is just the skimming surface of her potential

• 'The Voice' says, as usual, men's hoops is in the Big Ten hunt


Varsity - Feb. 8, 2011

Feb. 8, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 11
• Looking back at UW's 1962 upset of No. 1 Ohio State

• Lisa Stone reflects on 500 career wins

• Video: Men's hockey skills competition

• 'The Voice' says Badgers need it loud at Kohl Center


Varsity - Feb. 3, 2011

Feb. 3, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 10 - Signing Day Special
• In-depth profiles on all 28 Class of 2011 signees

• Early enrollee Kenzel Doe looking for head start

• Video highlights for each scholarship player

• Recruiting coordinator Joe Rudolph offers insight


Varsity - Feb. 1, 2011

Feb. 1, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 9
• Kohl Center a remarkable home-court advantage

• Podge Turnbull becomes leader for men's hockey

• Fill the Bowl a record-setting success

• 'The Voice' takes stock of men's, women's hoops


Varsity - Jan. 25, 2011

Jan. 25, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 8
• Meghan Duggan leaves nothing to chance

• As a freshman, Josh Gasser shows his value

• Badgers hold Border Battle lead

• 'The Voice' says overreaction not the best reaction


Varsity - Jan. 18, 2011

Jan. 18, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 7
• Confidence fueling wrestling's upward climb

• Jordan Taylor continues to emerge as leader

• Getting to know Sean Dolan of men's hockey

• 'The Voice' examines UW's lack of losing streaks


Varsity - Jan. 11, 2011

Jan. 11, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 6
• Jon Leuer is leaving a legacy for the men's basketball team

• John Clay and J.J. Watt discuss their NFL draft decisions

• Getting to know Mike Bruesewitz

• Looking back at UW's first women's basketball home game


Varsity - Jan. 4, 2011

Jan. 4, 2011 - Volume 1, Issue 5
• Historic season comes to close with Rose Bowl loss

• Women's basketball opens Big Ten play 2-0

• Crowd of 25,000 turns out for Party at the Pier

• 'The Voice' says thanks for a memorable season


Varsity Cover - Dec. 28, 2010

Dec. 28, 2010 - Volume 1, Issue 4
• Badgers hit Disneyland, open practice for Rose Bowl

• Men's basketball opens Big Ten with Border Battle

• Hockey's Ramage named U.S. junior national team captain

• Tommy Lasorda offers pep talk for football team


Varsity - Dec. 21, 2010

Dec. 21, 2010 - Volume 1, Issue 3
• Looking back on the Badgers' fantastic 2010 season

• Game-by-game recaps

• Video highlights from each game

• Breaking down film with QB Scott Tolzien


Varsity - Dec. 14, 2010

Dec. 14, 2010 - Volume 1, Issue 2
• A behind-the-scenes look at football's week-long awards tour

• Men's basketball rides hot streak into break after sweep of in-state rivals

• The latest on women's basketball, men's and women's hockey and wrestling

• Student-athletes' Toys for Tots drive a success


Varsity - Dec. 7, 2010

Dec. 7, 2010 - Volume 1, Issue 1
• Welcome to 'Varsity'

• Football reacts to being selected of its first Rose Bowl since 2000

• Get to know wrestler Travis Rutt

• Catching up with former Rose Bowl quarterback Brooks Bollinger