After grabbing the spotlight on the soccer field as a starting freshman, forward Savannah Jordan got the call for some national team action.
Jordan will train with the U.S. U-18 Women’s National Team in camps with the U-17 team from Oct. 13-19 in Lakeland Ranch.
The starting forward turned heads after scoring five goals in the Gators’ season opening weekend. Jordan now sits at 12 goals scored this season, making her the third highest scorer for Florida freshmen.
“It’s a great honor and a great opportunity,” Jordan said. “I’m excited to get into a new environment and kind of play with different players and see what I can do. I think it will help me bring new things to the team.”
Burleigh added: “We just look at it as a great opportunity for her to get some more training.”
But before Jordan can assume her national team role, she’ll be heading to Starkville, Miss., with No. 12 Florida (9-3-1, 3-2 Southeastern Conference) to face Mississippi State (3-9, 0-5 SEC) on Friday at 8 p.m.
Burleigh noted that Mississippi State won’t be an easy matchup with senior forward Elisabeth Sullivan making an impact for the Bulldogs.
“She’s got 12 goals against legit competition,” Burleigh said.
“She’s just a good all-around player. She’s got pace. She’s technical. She’s a strong player.”
It will be the battle of the forwards, with both Sullivan and Jordan sitting at 12 goals this season.
Despite the team’s overall losses, Sullivan scored tough goals against Missouri and LSU this season.
Although the Gators won 4-1 in their last meeting with the Bulldogs, playing on Mississippi State turf has made a difference in the past.
The Bulldogs claimed a 1-0 victory over the Gators in 2011 and 2003 when playing in Starkville.
In 2009, Florida tied the matchup 1-1 off a penalty kick by then-sophomore Lindsey Thompson in the 84th minute.
Burleigh said after last weekend’s split results, Florida needs to be more consistent in its execution and effort.
The Gators are now tied for fifth in SEC league standings with Ole Miss and Alabama. LSU leads the league with four wins, no losses and a tie.
“We’re ready to keep going in the SEC and get another win under us,” Jordan said.
“It’s always hard playing away games, especially on the road against big teams like [Mississippi State]. We just have to stay focused and really concentrate on getting the win – getting back in the rhythm of playing with each other and having fun.”
Follow Michelle Provenzano on Twitter @mmprovenzano.
Savannah Jordan battles for the ball during Florida’s 3-0 victory against Alabama on Sept. 20 at James G. Pressly Stadium.
