The energy surrounding Gator Nation was what originally made Gonzalez a Florida fan from a very young age. So when the opportunity arose to play soccer in Gainesville, she didn’t hesitate to take it.
“I’m from Florida. It was a big goal of mine to get here. Once UF showed interest, it was a done deal for me. I called them back right away,” says Gonzalez. She knew that coming to Florida would set her up for a successful college experience. “Just the athletes that have come through Florida and Florida being a top-five public program, that’s something you can’t really beat,” she says.
This year, Gonzalez is giving her best for the Gators and her teammates.
“I wanted to play a final season with some of my best friends that I came in with,” says Gonzalez.
Additionally, Gonzalez is excited to be coached by Samantha Bohon this season. Although Bohon is new to Florida, she and Gonzalez already have a long-time mutual connection.
When Gonzalez played club soccer, she was coached by former Florida soccer star Danielle Fotopoulos. The former Gator was a member of the 1998 NCAA championship team and part of the U.S.’s gold medal 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup team. She also holds NCAA records for goals and points. Coincidentally, Fotopoulos is best friends with Bohon. Gonzalez appreciates having a familiar face taking over Gator soccer during her final season.
“I came from being coached by Danielle, to now being coached by Sam. It’s pretty cool that they have that connection and that they obviously have similar morals and values. That’s really cool and is something that I am totally on board for. I think that’s something that everyone will like,” says Gonzalez.
Gonzalez is planning to make the most of the academic opportunities assets she’s receiving during her Gator career. While pursuing her bachelor’s degree in education sciences, Gonzalez has gotten support from many Hawkins staff members that has led her to success in the classroom. Her academic advisor Caleb Sorgius, alongside Allison Forrest and Pierre Banks are some members whom she credits her…
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