Gators strength coach Marotti to rejoin Meyer; Easley to have knee surgery
Monday, December 5, 2011 | Football, Men's Golf, Scott Carter
Gators head coach Will Muschamp confirmed that Mickey Marotti, director of strength and conditioning for the past seven seasons, has left to rejoin former Florida coach Urban Meyer at Ohio State.
Marotti came to Florida when Meyer took over the program in 2005 and played a vital role in helping the Gators win two national championships in six seasons under Meyer. He was retained by Muschamp after Meyer's resignation.
Marotti first got to know Meyer when they were grad assistants with the Buckeyes in the late 1980s and his departure doesn't come as a major surprise considering his ties to Meyer.
Marotti was a popular figure with the players and is well-respected by his peers. Muschamp plans an extensive search for Marotti's replacement.
“I'm going to take my time on that. That's a critical hire,'' Muschamp said Sunday. “Mickey did a great job at the University of Florida and I appreciate his efforts, but again, we need to get stronger, we need to get physically and mentally tough, and it starts there in the weight room.''
Meanwhile, Muschamp said his coaching staff remains together and busy recruiting. Rumors have circulated since Meyer's hiring at Ohio State that two other of his former UF assistants – running backs coach Brian White and linebackers/special teams coach D.J. Durkin – could leave if Meyer offers them positions.
“Our coaching staff is intact. We've had coaches on our staff have other options, other opportunities,'' he said. “I'm excited about the continuity of our staff and our staff that is in place.''
EASLEY OUT
Starting defensive tackle Dominique Easley suffered a knee injury in the loss to Florida State that will keep him out of the Gator Bowl.
Easley is scheduled to undergo surgery this week to repair an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.
“It's unfortunate for him but he'll be back and be ready to roll for us,'' Muschamp said.
BRANTLEY HEALTHY
Starting quarterback John Brantley left the FSU game after suffering a concussion late in the first half. Prior to his departure, Brantley threw three interceptions in his final home game.
Asked what the Gators planned to do at quarterback in the Gator Bowl, Muschamp said Brantley is expected to be fine to play.
“We're going to do what we've got to do to win the football game,'' Muschamp said. “John is disappointed with the way he played the last game there in the Swamp. He's disappointed and so are we. He's fine. Back from that game, we should be fine as far as the injuries are concerned.''
