Embree's return from wrist surgery highlights Gators' season-opening match against UCF
Tuesday, January 25, 2011 | Women's Tennis, Track and Field, Scott Carter
The UF women's tennis team opens its spring season on Wednesday at home against UCF.
If you notice a big smile on Gators coach Roland Thornqvist's face, there's a good reason.
Sophomore Lauren Embree is back on the court.
“That makes me a better coach instantly,'' Thornqvist said.
The No. 2-ranked Gators have a lineup loaded with talent, but none perhaps as talented as Embree, the first freshman in history named SEC Player of the Year.
After going 32-6 in singles last season, Embree missed the fall season after undergoing surgery on her left wrist. She is finally ready to return to competition, providing the Gators an instant upgrade in singles and doubles.
“She's one of the toughest competitors you'll ever see,” Thornqvist said. “That determination goes a long way when you play college tennis, without a doubt.”
Embree's return highlights the Gators' season-opening match with the Knights, but Florida is far from a one-woman team after finishing as the NCAA runner-up a season ago.
Florida's lineup is loaded from top to bottom, featuring sophomore Allie Will, ranked No. 7 in the current NCAA singles ranking, and freshman Olivia Janowicz, ranked No. 22.
Expectations are high, but that's OK according to Thornqvist.
“We want the players to have high expectations, albeit realistic,'' he said. “We know we have one of the better teams in the country. There is no shying away from that.''
