Orange and Blue Match / GAC Picnic
August 20th, 2005
Nearly 1000 fans came out to see the 2005 Florida Gators play their annual Orange and Blue scrimmage match today. After signing autographs, the players took to the court and played 3 games. While players were periodically swapped back and forth between each squad, the Blue team prevailed 2-1 (27-30, 30-26, 15-13).
Kisya Killingsworth led all players with 11 kills today and looks comfortable back in her natural position of middle blocker. She and the other Gators will have big shoes to fill as Florida graduated 2 All-American Middle Blockers last year. Adding to the point totals were Marcie Hamptom with 10 and Kari Klinkenborg with 9.
"Overall, we saw some really good things," Florida coach Mary Wise said. "We played two and a half games and saw our players never out of breath. Our team's in very good shape. That said, we have some things we still need to work on - our serving, blocking, transition defense. I'm very pleased with the turnout of fans today," Wise said. "Much of our success is due to the support we get from the Gator Nation. To get this many fans for a scrimmage says a lot."
Afterwards, many of these fans joined the coaches, players and staff for our annual GAC Picnic, held at the University Women's Center. After grabbing a bite to eat - with the main course once again provided by Chef's Garden Catering - Coach Wise introduced the entire 2005 Florida Volleyball team. Many familiar faces have returned, but we've also added some new names to the Gator Family. Josh Hill and his family have come aboard as he takes over as Volunteer Assistant Coach. Pam Waller joins the team as their new Athletic Trainer and Kelley Kish returns as the Director of Volleyball Operations. Then the boosters had a chance to hear from the players, including the three new freshmen: Christina Diaz (S), Kristina Johnson (MB) and local native Kelsey Bowers (MB).
Please come out and join us as Coach Mary Wise gives a preview of the upcoming season during the "Gator Hotline with Mary Wise Show." The first broadcast will be from the Beef O'Brady's on 43rd Street, next Sunday, August 28th, at 6pm. Follow this up with the first official match of the season as Jacksonville University visits the O'Connell Center on Monday, August 29th, at 7pm. Bring all your friends and let's show our support for the players!
Go Gators!!
