For the Michigan field hockey team, this summer is not just any other. In fact, this summer is unlike any other in its history. With the Wolverines' first ever national title last November, the spotlight is on the defending champs. But outside of some new recruits, the Wolverines haven't changed from previous years.

There are no extra intensive workouts or extra camps to attend. Nobody is being forced to stay in Ann Arbor or go anywhere to train. It's just another relaxing and fun summer, whether it be teaching at kid's camps, playing pick up games,or working at an internship. And, the sometimes anticipated and often dreaded package still came in the mail.

"You get the binder in the mail, and it's like the worst day of the year," senior midfielder Molly Powers said while laughing. "It has motivational readings and workouts, but it's good because everyone stays on the same page throughout the summer."

The packet is compiled by Michigan coach Marcia Pankratz and assistant coaches Nancy Cox and Ashley Reichenbach. It is designed to keep the team focused and ready for the long season ahead. With articles written by athletes such as Brett Hull on how he visualizes shooting, it is a valuable binder for sure.

"Hockey and field hockey are two different sports, but Brett Hull is inspirational because he's a hard worker," senior Jessica Rose said. "He gets into the right places, and that's 90 percent of shooting."

The packet actually is versatile in terms of its use, containing interpretation on everything from nutrition to dealing with anxiety. In addition, the past year's seniors get a chance to write to the remaining players.

"Every page has a little quote, and there's always a letter from a graduating senior," Rose said. "Anybody can pick it up, and it'll help in exams or things like that."

Rose actually enjoys getting hers in the mail now.

"I've actually matured and enjoy getting my workout book," Rose said. "They're maize instead of blue like the last three years, so that makes them a little cooler."

For those players who have the time, the United Airlines Field Hockey League is an opportunity to play competitive field hockey with and against some of the best college players in the country. Nine players are representing Michigan on the Midwest Cyclones, including forwards April Fronzoni, Powers, Jen Zangara and Pankratz. For the forwards, it has been a unique experience playing with their coach on the field.

"It's pretty funny," Powers said. "She's an awesome player, and its fun to play with her because she's so intense. She's out there playing and coaching at the same time."

"There's a rule that everyone over the age of 25 doesn't have to run, so she just hangs out around the net."

On defense, Reichenbach, Stephanie Johnson, Kristi Gannon and Kate Dillon have all played, while Molly Maloney has been in goal.

Playing on the Cyclones isn't the easiest adjustment for Michigan players though. The different philosophies and styles of play of the players from different schools are tough to meld together, despite the fact that there is so much talent.

"You learn to play with each other at Michigan, and you learn a certain style of play," Powers said. "But playing with these other girls, we're not used to their style of defense or the way they run."

Despite all of this, the Cyclones made a run at the championship this past weekend in Virginia Beach, Va., only to fall to the Southern Charm, 5-0, in the finals. The Cyclones were led by Fronzoni, who came in third place in the league in regular-season goals. It was a good tune-up for the Michigan players and a good opportunity to make friends with players from rival teams.

"The whole thing behind games and sports is friendly competition," Powers said. "It's cool because I've been playing with Kelsey Keeran from North Carolina, one of our big rivals."

By the time Michigan faces those big rivals during the season, the Wolverines will be well acquainted with their talented freshman class, which is headed by defender Lori Hillman.

The class includes hometown talents Katie Morris and Catherine Pickard, goalkeeper Nancy Franklin,and midfielder Nicole Lonsway. But it is Hillman that has impressed everyone the most of all.

"Hillman is a great player, I saw her play for the first time at a camp, and she plays like she's much older," Powers said.

Despite losing five seniors this year, the deep and talented Wolverines don't expect the excellent team chemistry to change with the new additions.

"We all live in the same houses off the field, and we always have each other's back," Powers said. "I always refer to ourselves as a field hockey family."

But it's not just a family now; it's a championship family.

"They're coming into a confident team that has proven themselves," Rose said.