Who knew that going into summer, spring football would be one of the least talked about sports on the UF campus? With the seemingly vanilla offense and a badly banged up defense, the Orange and Blue Debut was mostly for the new coaching staff. The highlight of the game was not during the game itself, but at halftime, with the unveiling of the Heisman Trophy winners’ statues on the west side of the stadium. If you haven’t been to see them, it’s worth a trip over. My skepticism was squelched when I actually laid eyes on them. Well done.
While football itself was not a big splash on the sports scene, football recruiting is in full swing, with an impressive 10 verbal commitments for the 2012 season.
However, the real stars of spring were the so-called “minor” sports. Men’s and Women’s tennis teams each won their SEC tournaments—quite an impressive feat. The women are ranked #1 nationally, the men #8. The Gymnastics team finished the season 17-2 (5-1 SEC) and made the national tournament, but failed to reach the Super Six.
The Women’s lacrosse team (currently 15-2, 5-0 SEC), still in its infancy (second year of the program) began their post season play as the top seed in the American Lacrosse Conference. What a wonderful reward for those players who signed to play for Florida with only a coach named. No stadium, no facilities. No history of the sport in a conference that has only a few teams competing. Just the belief that the name “Florida” alone carries clout; the knowledge that everything the University of Florida does is first class. Their vision has come to fruition. Lacrosse is growing in popularity in middle and high schools across the country. It’s not just for the Ivy League anymore!
The softball team (45-8) continues to improve and power their way through the SEC. They have changed the style of softball, from the slap-hitting, small ball way of playing to power hitting, netting record home run numbers. The amount of home runs being hit these days has led some to question whether the fences should be moved back!
The Gator baseball team remains in the top 5 nationally, relying on a strong pitching staff and power hitters at the plate. The new composite bats have required a bit of a learning curve, but the team seems to be peaking at the right time. The regular season is winding down, and they are continuing to improve heading into the SEC tournament and, hopefully, to a Regional host position, perhaps even a Super Regional.
The quality of sports programming year round makes the Gainesville area a magnet for those who love sports. One can see many of these events for just a few dollars or even free. The opportunity to show Orange and Blue pride continues in the coming weeks. Get out and show your Gator spirit by supporting these athletic teams. You’ll be glad you did. Go Gators!
By Dawn Robinette
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