Behind The U

Josh Darrow catches up with Canes offensive lineman Anez Cooper, who talks about growing up in Alabama, his multi-sport background, why he gravitated towards football and the offensive line, why he chose to attend Miami, how Mario Cristobal and Alex Mirabal have helped make him a better lineman, and his thoughts on the upcoming season.

Josh Darrow checks in with Canes pitcher Rafe Schlesinger, who talks about growing up on Long Island, how he transitioned from football and hockey to baseball, why he came to Miami, how he has developed as a pitcher over three seasons in Coral Gables, how he’s mentally preparing for the MLB Draft, his clothing line, and how he’s worked to manage his tics and become an inspiration to others.

Josh Darrow catches up with Director of Track and Field and Cross Country Amy Deem, who talks about how she arrived at Miami, what hurdles she faced early in her career, how her program has intersected with Canes football over the years, how she and her staff recruit across so many events, how triple jumper Russell Robinson has progressed from walk-on to national champion and her fondest memories from coaching Team USA at the 2012 Olympics. 

Josh Darrow checks in with Associate AD for Academic Services Jessica Lopez, who talks about overseeing the football team’s academic pursuits, her relationship with Mario Cristobal, how her staff works with student-athletes on a daily basis, how her science background has helped her navigate her role in athletics, and how the football team achieved a perfect NCAA APR score this past year. 

Josh Darrow catches up with return guest and newly crowned national champion Alexa Noel, who talks about winning the NCAA women’s singles title, what it took to win six matches in six days, what she did to celebrate, why she chose to play at Miami, her connection to Caitlin Clark, and how much she’s looking forward to playing in the U.S. Open later this summer.

Josh Darrow chats with UM’s Executive Associate Athletic Director of Student-Athlete Development Shirelle Jackson, who talks about the department’s community service efforts, how her office assists with life skills and career development, some of her favorite student-athlete success stories, and how her own experience as a track and field student-athlete help her navigate her current role.

Josh Darrow talks with new Miami graduate – and former Sebastian the Ibis – Alex Westover, who details his big bird reveal at graduation, his commencement speech, his favorite mascot appearances, his favorite celebrity encounters, what The U means to him and what’s next for him, including training for triathlons.

Josh Darrow checks in with new Canes women’s basketball head coach Tricia Cullop, who talks about growing up in basketball-crazy Indiana, how she broke into the coaching ranks, what she learned as a young head coach, how she markets her programs, what fuels her team’s style of play, what intrigued her about the Miami job, and her excitement about the continued growth of the sport.

Josh Darrow catches up with Canes men’s basketball standout Nijel Pack, who talks about his journey to Miami, how his father has influenced his basketball career, what he learned going through the NBA pre-draft process, how he expanded his shooting range, Coach L’s history with guard production, and his memories of the 2023 Final Four run.

Josh Darrow chats with Canes volleyball standout Grace Lopez, who talks about growing up in Puerto Rico, what drew her to volleyball, why she decided to come to Miami, how she bounced back from knee surgery, and what contributed to her breakthrough All-ACC freshman campaign.