Softball to Host Celebrity Swing
Monday, January 28, 2002 | Softball
Florida started the Celebrity Swing last season as a way to allow the local media and fans to get to know the team and their new coach Karen Johns. Nearly 20 people participated in the game, including former Gator quarterback Jesse Palmer, TV 20's Joe Girvan and the Gainesville Sun's Doris Yon. Following a a glimpse back to the fun of last season's game.
Co-MVPs Jesse Palmer (former Florida Quarterback) and Prentice Lewis (Assistant UF Volleyball Coach) were the offensive forces for the White team as it defeated the visiting Blue team 5-4 in the first Gator Softball Celebrity Swing game Saturday morning at the Florida Softball Stadium.The 2001 Gators, local media, UF athletes and coaches joined forces to bring in Coach Karen Johns' first season and celebrate the program's fifth year with a four-inning fastpitch softball game. More than 100 fans were on hand and Kiss 105.3 FM broadcast live.
In the inaugural event, Palmer went 1-2 with a double to left field, a fielder's choice and two RBI. His double scored senior first baseman Ashley Boone, who walked, in the first inning. Lewis was 1-1 with a stolen base and put up a solid defensive display.In the fourth frame, Everett, a former UF track All-American and three- time Olympian sped around the bases for a triple, which scored UF senior Emily Marino, bringing the Blue team within one. Everett almost tied it up, but was tagged while stealing home. Everett did score once thanks to an RBI from UF Strength and Conditioning Coordinator Karin Spence in the third while pinch running for Doris Yon (The Gainesville Sun). Everett was so tired from all of his running, he and Yon took several breaks in the outfield. They were often seen napping between batters.
Former UF volleyball player Jerilyn Hattendorf was the unsung hero. The senior who claimed, "I've never played softball in my life," had a single for two RBI and stole home on one of her two thefts.Sports Directors Steve Russell (WRUF-AM 850) and Joe Girvan (WCJB-TV 20) of the Blue team also had notable performances. Russell tripled in the top of the fourth, and Girvan's intense play at shortstop was eminent. Additionally Mike Forte (Kiss 105.3) received the "Best Sport" award for putting up with the most jokes from the announcer.
Invitations have just been delivered to local media and celebrities, so keep an eye on Gatorzone.com for detail on this year's participants
