As a loyal Badger fan,  I would have a tough time voting
for Sauer as WCHA coach of the year.  Why?
 
1)  He inherited one of the top programs in the country.  I expect
    no less than a top three finish in the WCHA every year.  This
    may seem unreasonable, but look at Wisconsin's history and note
    that Wisconsin is one of the few schools that doesn't have to
    recruit (in the real sense).  Top notch players are knocking down
    the doors to play at Wisconsin.
2)  He has recruited the 'head cases' of the last few years.  Given,
    he may have learned how to coach these 'head cases' now, but that's
    still not enough for COTY honors.
3)  Under Sauer, the Badgers have been one of the most inconsistent
    teams in past years.  With all the talent that has been at Wisconsin,
    it shouldn't be hard to be more consistent.  I do admire his
    ability to get the team up for the big games (I wouldn't want
    to coach or play against Wisconsin in the NCAA tournament).
4)  The Badgers have suffered from penalties throughout Sauer's career.
    In watching the games, almost every turning point in a major game
    that Wisconsin has lost has been due to penalties.  I think it
    is the coaches job to recruit, coach and play players who do not
    constantly sit in the penalty box.  Sauer seems to like to have
    goons on his teams.
 
I know that I've been a little harsh on Sauer, but I don't think that
he has met the expectations of Badger fans or alumni.  Having spoke
with several players (past and current), a lot of them have said that
Sauer offers very little coaching when it is needed.  I don't think
this is the kind of coach who deserves COTY honors.
 
No flames intended,
-Patrick Moore
Puck 'em Bucky!
 
>
>      Since no one else has started this, I guess I will.
>
>      I am starting the "Jeff Sauer for WCHA Coach of the Year" campaign.
>
>      He took a team that was picked to finish 6th in the league, to a
>      second place finish.  That right there should be enough.  But for the
>      first time in years, he had his team playing like a team and not a
>      bunch of glory seeking head cases.
>
>      I didn't start this looking for flames, but if you feel the need, go
>      ahead.  I would much rather hear your opinions.
>
>      John Wilson
>
>      Badgers, 2nd place in the WCHA
>      "Go Red"
>