Kulczycki named assistant wrestling coach at the Univ. of Michigan

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Leah Howard (Univ. of Michigan)
09/02/2004


ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- University of Michigan wrestling head coach Joe McFarland announced Wednesday (Sept. 1) the addition of former U-M standout Mike Kulczycki to the coaching staff. Kulczycki, who spent the 2003-04 season as the Wolverines' strength and conditioning coordinator, will replace Tony Robie as assistant coach and will work with McFarland in the program's day-to-day operation, recruiting and other areas.    "I'm very excited to have Mike as a member of the coaching staff," said McFarland. "He was an outstanding wrestler at Michigan, and I know he will be an outstanding coach. Mike was always among the hardest workers in the practice room, and that trait will be invaluable as a coach. His committment to Michigan wrestling is boundless, and I think he will do a tremendous job."    "I'm really looking forward to working with this team at a higher level," said Kulczycki. "Michigan has a long, successful tradition in wrestling, and I am excited for my new role within the program. It is a great opportunity for me to work closely with several of the nation's most talented wrestlers."    During Kulczycki's career at Michigan (2000-03), the Wolverines established themselves as a dominant team at the national level with top-10 showings at the NCAA Championships in each of his final three seasons. A 2001 All-American and four-time NCAA qualifer at 149 and 165 pounds, Kulczycki ranks among Michigan's most successful wrestlers with a 110-41 career record, placing him 16th on U-M's all-time wins list.    Serving as team captain in his senior season, Kulczycki was also the 2003 recipient of the Steve Fraser Award for mental toughness.    Prior to his collegiate career, Kulczycki was a two-time Ohio state champion for St. Edward High School. A native of North Royalton, Ohio, Kulczycki graduated from Michigan in 2003 with a bachelor's degree sports management and communications.