Softball
Florida Gators celebrate a home run against the Missouri Tigers in the SEC softball tournament championship game at Jane B. Moore Field in Auburn, Ala., on Saturday. [Jake Crandall-Montgomery Advertiser]

Florida Softball News Conference Takeaways

The Florida Gators softball team had its preseason media news conferenceMonday as it’s season opener looms Thursday against North Florida.

Coach Tim Walton, first baseman/pitcher Ava Brown and outfielders Korbe Otis and Taylor Shumaker previewed UF’s season.

Handling Expectations

The speakers emphasized making sure that their team stays in the moment this year, not allowing itself to fall from the preseason hype from the media.

“I always called it the ghost of expectations, the fear of the unknown. When you’re comparing yourself to what yourself was as opposed to what yourself is, I think those things I’m excited to see how our players handle some of the hype.” Walton said. “So I’m excited to see how our players handle when people start pumping up their tires.”

A reporter asked Otis about handling expectations and she explained that last year’s run to the WCWS semifinals was cool. But it’s in the past now and she’s focused on this years team.

“Last year is gonna stay in the past,” she said. “And I’m just trying to work on what I’m doing in this next moment to get better.”

Relying on the Veteran Leadership

Shumaker will be Florida softball’s only freshman starter, playing right field. A reporter asked her about having seniors in the outfield helping her out during her development.

“Having the two of them out there with as much experience as they have and as many games they have underneath their belt has been really helpful.” she said.

What’s Next

The Gators open the season at home Thursday against North Florida at 6 p.m.

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