. The Gators’ upset of the reigning national champions helped propel Florida to No. 20 in the United Soccer Coaches poll. (Photo courtesy of Gators Athletics)

Florida Soccer Ranked No. 20 In United Soccer Coaches Poll

Florida soccer has landed in the United Soccer Coaches Top 25 for the first time in years, coming in at No. 20 in the second week. The recognition comes after two decisive victories for Florida, including a major upset against Florida State on Sunday.

Florida had not been featured in the poll for 81 consecutive polls, last making an appearance during the 2020 season.

The Gators have been featured across headlines this week, with two Gators earning SEC Player of the Week honors. Senior forward Kyra Taylor earned both SEC Offensive Player of the Week and TopDrawerSoccer.com National Player of the Week after logging back-to-back braces against Coastal Carolina and Florida State. Redshirt senior goalkeeper Jayden Emmanuel was crowned SEC Defensive Player of the Week following a standout performance on Sunday.

After the loss in Gainesville, Florida State dropped from No. 3 to No. 16 in the poll. Despite the big wins last week, Gators coach Nick Zimmerman said the team is staying focused and looking ahead.

“It’s one game,” Zimmerman said Sunday. “We will enjoy this one and we’ll get ready for a great Jacksonville team.”

The Gators will look to continue climbing the ranks by staying in the win column in its home matchup Thursday against the Dolphins at 6 p.m.

Category: Gator Sports, Gators Soccer