Olivia Janowicz has put points on the board for the Gators early in matches recently.
The junior has four straight two-set victories. It’s proved critical to get momentum going early in the matches, and that is exactly what Janowicz has done.
“Olivia had to go to Plan B in the second set, and I was impressed to see how she’s developed and her ability to have Plan A, B and C ready to go really helps,” coach Roland Thornqvist said in a release. “When she gets the lead and gets us on the board early, that helps us. I was pleased.”
She looks to continue that when Florida (13-2, 6-1 Southeastern Conference) takes on LSU (8-10, 1-7 SEC) Friday.
Both of Florida’s losses this season have come on the road. Thornqvist said he has sensed some mental fatigue with the team as of late, so he gave the team two days of rest.
“This year is the first in a few years where we don’t have an open weekend in the middle of the season,” Thornqvist said. “That has hurt us a little bit.”
Florida had to deal with some adversity on Sunday. The team moved indoors to play due to the weather, but the team adjusted to its circumstances. It’s something that Thornqvist has been really pleased with this season.
However, one Gator who hasn’t been affected by the mental exhaustion is freshman Brianna Morgan.
Like Janowicz, Morgan has four straight victories and has provided a spark at the end of matches for the team. She clinched two matches for the Gators the past weekend. Thornqvist says it’s unique that a freshman has been closing out matches.
“She has turned into a great player, not just a great hitter,” Thornqvist said. “Whenever you have a player with the athleticism of Brianna, you have a lot to work with. She has done really well and developed confidence, and she is certainly great for the Gators.”
Olivia Janowicz prepares to return a serve in a match against Duke in 2011.
