Captains for a Week: Michigan University, the 2K Classic, and Wounded Warrior Project

NEW YORK, Dec. 22, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Dan Webb and Mike Koziak had both been to New York City before, but never for an event like the one they were attending. They came this time as honored guests – of Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) and of the University of Michigan Wolverines basketball team. Both warriors were named honorary captains of the team at the 2016 2K Classic, a basketball game that benefits WWP.

For more than a week, Dan and Mike were engrossed in the world of the Wolverines – watching film with the teams, attending practices, and getting glimpses into their world.

"The intensity of it is amazing," said Dan, who is an Army veteran. "They strategize over every move and play and dig into what the players can do better. The coach will chew out anyone who doesn't do his job. This is a well-oiled machine, and as a life-long Michigan fan, getting to see what goes on there was just awesome."

Mike and Dan flew with the team on "their decked-out Michigan private plane," getting an opportunity to talk with the players and coaching staff.

"The players wanted us next to them, and we chatted the entire time," said Mike, a Marine Corps veteran. 

The tournament was going to be a big moment for the team – and for Dan and Mike.

"As we walked into the dressing room with the team, you could just feel that energy," Dan said. "It was electric."

Dan and Mike still think about the game, even weeks after it ended. Beyond the signed game balls, Michigan T-shirts, and memories, they also gained a new friendship from their time with the Wolverines.

"Mike and I talk almost every day now," Dan said. "I didn't expect to meet another veteran from my area as part of this trip. It was an unforgettable experience."

"I don't feel comfortable with group therapy," Mike said. "But I do find a lot of comfort with Wounded Warrior Project connection events."

To read the full story and watch a video, visit https://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org/Captains-for-a-Week-Michigan-University-the-2K-Classic-Wounded-Warrior-Project.

About Wounded Warrior Project
We Connect, Serve, and Empower
The mission of Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) is to honor and empower Wounded Warriors. WWP connects wounded warriors and their families to valuable resources and one another, serves them through a variety of free programs and services, and empowers them to live life on their own terms. WWP is a national, nonpartisan organization headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. To get involved and learn more, visit woundedwarriorproject.org.

SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project