Coach Bingle Talks About the Big Ten Championships

University of Minnesota Women's Head Coach Matt Bingle answered a few questions about the upcoming Women's Big Ten Championships this weekend at the University of Minnesota.

DtB: Is there one or several elements that you can point to that allowed the team to win last year's Big Ten Championships? If so what were they?

MB: The 2007 team really did well at the meet with just competing and enjoying the moment. We had great efforts by our middle distance, throws, and pole vault at the meet last year that led the way.

DtB: This year's meet could well be a three team dual, what has to happen for Minnesota to defend the title?

MB: The number one thing that we have to do is just to have fun in those competitive moments. The next thing is take care of the process and let the results happen. Then we just need a little lady luck!

DtB: What are the advantages/disadvantages of hosting the event?

MB: The best thing about being at home is that we have a some great fans and parents that get to see our team compete in the Big Ten meet. The disadvantage is that we are not traveling together to create that team environment. When we travel the unity is fun!

DtB: What are the team's strengths this year?

MB: We are strong this year in the jumps and middle distance, and feel good about where we are at at this point of the season.

DtB: Weaknesses?

MB: I feel like we have people in all areas that can get it done. We just need to step up!

DtB: Any special plans for the weekend to celebrate hosting the meet?

MB: No, not really. We had an alumni function this fall, so we do not have any alumni functions going on.

DtB: Any specific events that could be the key to the team championship race?

MB: We just have to take care of the first day and get people to the finals, then let Sunday play out, just compete hard, and have fun.

DtB: How do you go about preparing the team for this occasion?

MB: We keep it light and fun. Do girly things and just enjoy each other. You have to make it fun. The hay is in the barn at this point!