Belen Jesuit's Ryan Rodriguez commits to the Florida Gators

On Monday evening this past week, Belen Jesuit senior Ryan Rodriguez became the first major committment announcement of the 2014/2015 signing season.  The Belen Jesuit stand-out made his announcement via Twitter and over the following days fielded some questions for our followers on his announcement.

It's rather ironic as just this past weekend we interviewed Ryan following his runner-up finish at the South Fork Fleet Feet Invitational.  We asked him about his season to date, his team at Belen Jesuit and his post high-school collegiate plans !

RELATED - WATCH RYAN'S POST RACE INTERVIEW

FROM THE SOUTH FORK FLEET INVITATIONAL

Why the University of Florida?

Florida is a great school both athletically and academically.  It's not only a prestigious track and field/ cross country program but also a school that strives for academic excellence.  Also, UF gives the opportunity year in and year out to compete for an SEC and national title.  The facilities are second to none and there are plenty of trails and different running routes in Gainesville, including their golf course.  Coach Spangler has done a great job of developing Florida high school runners into NCAA All-Americans.  Between the entire coaching staff, nutritionist and academic advisor we're truly given all the resources to succeed on the course/ track and in the classroom.


What can you bring to the Gator program?

I feel that I can make an impact by carrying over all I've learned from my time at Belen.  My coaches have really set me up well to succeed and compete at the next level.  Coming from such a great school I've been given all the tools and resources to succeed.  Having some of the same opportunities to succeed over the next four years is only one of the reasons why I chose UF.  Becoming a student of the sport and learning what it is to ultimately run for something greater than myself are only a few things I've learned and hope to carry on to UF.



This is a significant commitment announcement for both yourself and the Gators.  How did you get to this point?

I spoke with Coach Spangler extensively throughout the summer.  He came down to Miami and we met and scheduled a visit.  I had my official visit right after the Mt. Dew Invitational.  The second I left the UF campus I knew that was where I wanted to be. The guys on the team were awesome and really welcoming.  Definitely felt like a place I could call home for the next four years.

Can you describe your emotions after making the call to Coach Spangler and the Gators?

I was mainly just excited to let Coach Spangler know and to hear from some of the guys afterwards.  To make an early decision to a program like UF is awesome.  Having made my decision I can now focus on the rest of my senior year and give it my all.

RELATED - 2014/2015 SIGNING LIST (email [email protected] to be added)