Former Gators Diaz, Hampton Graduate This Weekend
Sunday, May 3, 2009 | Volleyball
Diaz will earn a bachelor of science in health education and behavior with an emphasis on health promotion, while Hampton will earn a bachelor of science in telecommunications with a concentration in production.
Diaz was a defensive specialist who brought energy and passion to matches and practice on a daily basis. Her exemplary leadership abilities were never more evident than in helping lead the youngest team in head coach Mary Wise's tenure in 2008. She earned the Gator Spirit Award at the 2008 annual team banquet and was one of the squad's leaders in the weight room. She recorded a career-high 12 digs at Arkansas (11/5/06) and a career-high four service aces at Alabama (11/20/05).
Diaz was a four-time member of Southeastern Conference Academic Honor Rolls during her playing career.
Hampton was on outside hitter with the rare combination of both elite- level hitting and passing and skills. She ranks as Florida's all-time career leader in attacks (4,204), ranks third in digs (1,384) and fifth in kills (1,471). She concluded her tenure at UF as one of just 12 players in school history to average at least 3.0 kills per game for her career and she was the second-fastest player in school history to reach 1,000 career digs.
Hampton was a third-team AVCA All-America selection in 2007 and a four- time member of All-SEC teams. She also was a four-time member of Southeastern Conference Academic Honor Rolls during her playing career.
The University of Florida is home of the 2009 NCAA Volleyball Regionals. For more information, please log on to www.GatorZone.com.
