Madison Monserez has a soft voice, bright blond hair and an infectious smile.
But there is one specific trait that separates the freshman from hundreds of sundress-clad sorority row inhabitants.
“You wouldn’t think she chews glass, but that’s how she plays on the court,” UF coach Mary Wise said.
Chewing glass is a peculiar analogy, not exactly something the 5-foot-8 defensive specialist immediately thinks of when analyzing her own play.
“I try to put all I can on the court, and I guess that’s her terminology for it,” Monserez said.
Through 12 games, Monserez has seen more game time than any freshman not named Taylor Unroe. Playing three rotations in the backcourt, her presence has not only solidified the Gators’ defense, it has helped give outside hitter Stephanie Ferrell a three-rotation breather, increasing her production offensively.
“To put such pressure on her as a freshman, I think she’s taken it all in stride and it’s not even affecting her at all,” Ferrell said.
On the court, Monserez is something of a reckless presence. Constantly hustling and hitting the floor, her play does not mirror her off-court persona. Wise said she is not sure if she has ever coached a player with two personalities so contrary to one another.
“I’ve had coaches say something along those lines about me before,” Monserez said. “It’s funny that coach Wise notices that.”
Unroe, a redshirt freshman, typically shares the back row with Monserez and has been impressed with what she has seen so far. Although she is only a year older than Monserez, Unroe said she has felt a need to help her because she has had negative experiences in the past with being the youngest player on a new team.
Unroe, Florida’s starting libero, finds that most of the time her biggest advice is to simplify things and let Monserez’s talent take over.
“She’s surprised by her own skills sometimes,” Unroe said. “That’s the best part about her.”
Although Monserez is young, her early contributions haven’t surprised anyone on the team. Wise knew what she was getting when she brought in a player who was part of the Orlando Volleyball Academy, a vaunted club program.
“Those kids coming out of that, they know how to compete,” she said. “That’s Erin Fleming and Callie Rivers and Sherri Williams. They have a tradition of bringing in great competitors.”
In 35 sets, Monserez has recorded 46 digs and two service aces. When Florida’s offense plays well, it often starts with strong passing performances by Monserez and Unroe.
While she has been productive, the freshman admits she isn’t quite settled. Each game provides a new challenge and learning experience.
“I never have any expectations because when I do, they’re always proven wrong,” Monserez said.
