Congratulations to the UF Hall of Fame Winners 2024!
Content and photos from https://floridagators.com/news/2024/4/17/general-2024-uf-athletic-hall-of-fame-class-announced.aspx
GO GATORS!!!
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — A storied group of Gators is set to be inducted into the 2024 UF Athletic Hall of Fame class, the University of Florida F Club and Gator Boosters announced on Wednesday.
The F Club Committee chooses UF Athletic Hall of Fame inductees based on three categories: Gator Greats, Distinguished Letterwinners, and Honorary Letterwinners.
The 2024 class is composed of eight Gator Greats and one Honorary Letterwinner.
The list of Gator Greats on this year's class includes Elizabeth Beisel (Women's Swimming & Diving), Marcin Cieslak (Men's Swimming & Diving), Francesca Enea (Softball), Chas Henry (Football), Genevieve LaCaze (Women's Track & Field), Hannah Rogers (Softball), Preston Tucker (Baseball) and Scottie Wilbekin (Men's Basketball). The eight Gator Greats were part of two NCAA and 12 Southeastern Conference title teams and claimed four NCAA and 21 SEC individual crowns.
Additionally, former soccer head coach Becky Burleigh will enter as an Honorary Letterwinner.
Gator Greats are Letterwinners who brought recognition and prominence to the University of Florida and themselves by their athletic accomplishments as a student-athlete.
An Honorary Letterwinner is a coach or athletic official (after retirement) who was not a letter winner or athlete at the University of Florida, yet rendered outstanding service to the program through personal time, effort, interest and through many years of continued service.
The Hall of Fame Banquet will occur Friday, October 18, 2023, prior to the Kentucky home football game.
2024 UF Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees
Gator Greats
Elizabeth Beisel | Women's Swimming, 2010-14
Elizabeth Beisel
A standout athlete at Florida, Elizabeth Beisel left her mark in the Orange & Blue. Beisel claimed nine SEC Championships from 2011-14 in events such as the 200 IM, 400 IM and 200 back on top of a 2012 NCAA Championship in the 200 Back and a 2013 NCAA Championship in the 400 IM. Her remarkable performances led to 20 All-SEC selections, 18 All-American selections, three-time SEC Championships Female Recipient of the Commissioner's Trophy (High Point Award) and was named 2010's SEC Women's Freshman of the Year.
Throughout her career with the Gators, Beisel set top-three UF all-time marks in 15 different events including the 400 IM (3:58.35), which remains the top spot in program history. Beyond her athletic achievements, she was also recognized for her academic excellence. Beisel earned a 2012 Capital One Academic All-America Women's At-Large First Team Selection and was named the 2013 Capital One Academic Women's At-Large All-America of the Year.
Beisel's illustrious career extended beyond college as she competed on both the national and international stage. As a member of the U.S. National Team, she is a two-time Olympian and won silver (400 IM) and bronze (200 back) at the 2012 Olympics. Additionally, Beisel claimed a 400 IM World Championship title in 2011.
Marcin Cieslak | Men's Swimming, 2011-14
Marcin Cieslak
A Poland native, Marcin Cieslak had an illustrious career at the University of Florida. From 2011-14, Cieslak earned 23 All-SEC selections on top of 25 All-American selections. Competing in the 200 & 400 Medley Relay, 100 fly, 200 fly, 200 IM, and 200 Free, Cieslak won nine separate SEC championships. In 2014, he won NCAA Championships in the 200 IM and 100 fly.
Cieslak got numerous recognitions for both his remarkable performances in the pool and in the classroom. In 2011, Cieslak was named the SEC Male Freshman Swimmer of the Year to go along with a CSCAA Division I Scholar All-American honor. The season after her claimed the SEC Commissioner's Trophy (High Point Award) and SEC Male Swimmer of the Year title.
Cieslak cemented himself in the UF all-time rankings in 10 different events during his time, with top-three times in Gators' history. He remains third all-time in the 200-yard fly and sixth in both the 100-yard fly and 200-yard IM.
Competing in the 2011 FINA World Championship, Cieslak showcased his talent on the international stage. He was a 2012 Olympian as a member of the Poland National Team swimming a time of 1:57.07 in the 200 fly and 2:00.45 in the 200 IM.
Francesca Enea | Softball, 2007-10
Francesca Enea
Enea is one of the latest softball inductees to the UF Athletic Hall of Fame along with Hannah Rogers this year. She joins Chelsey Sakizzie (2008), Jenny Gladding (2014), Stacey Nelson (2019), Michelle Moultrie (2022) and Kelsey Bruder (2023) among the Gator Greats to come through the program.
Over her storied career, Enea was tabbed a three-time National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) All-American in 2008, 2009 and 2010 in addition to being a two-time All-SEC selection in 2009 and 2010 and made the All-SEC Freshman Team in 2007. In 2009, Enea was a Top 25 finalist for the USA Softball Player of the Year, most prestigious awards in college softball, and was a Top 10 finalist in 2010. She also helped lead UF to a pair of SEC Regular Season and Tournament Titles in 2008 & 2009
Enea's name can be found all over the UF history books as she finished her career as the record holder in single-season home runs (20), single-season RBI (70), single-season SAC flies (6-tied), single-season hit by pitch (15), career home runs (61), career RBI (221) and career total bases (431). In addition, the Woodland Hills, Calif., native, finished her career ranked inside the Top 10 of seven other single-season categories and 10 other career categories by the time her career ended.
Academically, Enea made the SEC Academic Honor Roll (2008, 2009 and 2010) and SEC Freshman Academic Honor Roll (2007), while also earning SEC Community Service Team honors in 2009 and 2010.
Chas Henry | Football, 2007-10
Chas Henry
Chas Henry was a punter for the Gators football team from 2007-10. He served as the starting punter for Florida all four seasons, including the BCS National Championship team in 2008. Henry started 54 consecutive games, which is a program record that still holds today. He ranks sixth all-time in career punts (165), yards per punt (43.0), fourth in longest punt (75) and was Florida's last true freshman to start the season opener.
He won the Ray Guy Award in his senior year in 2010 and was a finalist in 2009 and a semifinalist in 2008. Henry still holds the distinction of being the school's only award winner. He also is the Gators only punter to be named a Consensus All-American in 2010. That season, he set the single-season record at the time of 45.1 yards per punt with 16 of his 50 punts going 50 yards or more. Henry also earned All-SEC selection by the AP and Coaches that season.
The Dallas, Ga. native kicked a 37-yard game-winning field goal in the Gators 34-31 overtime victory over Georgia in 2010 after replacing an injured Cale Sturgis. Henry was a three-time SEC Honor Roll member and signed as a free agent with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2011.
Genevieve LaCaze | Women's Track and Field, 2008-12
Genevieve LaCaze
Genevieve LeCaze, Florida's school record hodler in the 3000m Steeplechase, enjoyed an outstanding career during her time in Gainesville from 2009-12. LeCaze became the first Gator to ever break the ten minute mark in the Steeplechase when she recorded a time of 9:50.25 at the 2012 NCAA Outdoor Championships.
In addition to her school record time, which has stood for twelve years, LeCaze was a three time SEC Outdoor Champion and one time and one time NCAA Runner-Up in the Steeplechase. LeCaze found success in other events as well. During her senior season she became the first women in SEC history to sweep the 1500m, 3000m and 5000m events at the SEC Outdoor Championships.
LeCaze was a four time All-American and six time All-SEC selection. During her dominant 2012 season, LeCaze was named the USTFCCCA South Region Women's Track Athlete of the Year and SEC Women's Co-Runner of the Year. She also earned Outdoor Freshman Runner of the Year in 2009.
She continued her career on the professional level as an Olympic athlete, competing in both the 2012 London and 2016 Rio Olympics. In London, LeCaze finished ninth in her heat (22nd overall) in the 3000m Steeplechase, setting a personal record of 9:37.90 in the process. In Rio, she competed in both the Steeplechase and the 5000m finishing ninth and twelfth, respectively, with times of 9:21.21 and 15:10.35.
Hannah Rogers | Softball, 2011-14
Hannah Rogers
Rogers is one of the latest softball inductees to the UF Athletic Hall of Fame along with Francesca Enea this year. She joins Chelsey Sakizzie (2008), Jenny Gladding (2014), Stacey Nelson (2019), Michelle Moultrie (2022) and Kelsey Bruder (2023) among the Gator Greats to come through the program. Overall, the softball program now has seven Hall of Fame inductees.
Rogers is a legend in the circle for the softball program as she was the first four-time National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) All-American in program history. The Lake Wales, Fla., native is also the first to be inducted that was a part of the program's first Women's College World Series (WCWS) National Championship in 2014. Not only did she help lead the program to its first national title, Rogers was named the 2014 WCWS Most Outstanding Player. Rogers accolades also include 2014 Southeastern Conference Female Athlete of the Year, All-SEC (2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014), All-SEC Defensive Team (2011, 2012 & 2014) in addition to being selected to the 2011 All-SEC Freshman Team.
Fans can find her name across the record books as well. She set the single-season record for saves (5) and finished inside the Top 10 in in 13 different categories. In the career categories she finished in the Top 10 in 13 different spaces and in the Top 5 in opponent batting average (.198 – 5th), walks allowed per seven innings (2.08 – 5th), wins (127 – 2nd), win percentage (.804 – 5th), save (14 – 2nd), appearances (191 – 2nd), starts (146 - 2nd), innings pitched (988.0 – 2nd) and strikeouts (833 – 2nd).
Academically, Rogers was a 2013 & 2014 SEC Academic Honor Roll selection.
Preston Tucker | Baseball, 2009-12
Preston Tucker
As Florida's all-time hits leader, infielder/outfielder Preston Tucker enjoyed an illustrious career in Orange & Blue from 2009-12. On top of 341 hits, Tucker owns program records in at bats (1,035), doubles (70), RBI (258) and total bases (596). He ranks second all-time in games played (265), second in starts (259), second in homers (57) and sixth in runs scored (210).
Florida advanced to the College World Series in each of Tucker's final three seasons as a Gator, marking the program's first appearances in Omaha under head coach Kevin O'Sullivan. Tucker also helped power the Gators to a pair of SEC Championships in 2010 and 2011.
Tucker was named an All-American and All-SEC selection in 2011 and 2012. Most notably, the Tampa, Fla. native holds status as the only player in team history to earn Regional All-Tournament Team honors in all four years of his career. In both 2009 and 2011, Tucker was named the Regional Most Outstanding Player.
Finishing his UF career with a .329/.409/.576 slash line across 265 games, Tucker was drafted by the Houston Astros with the 219th overall pick in the seventh round of the 2012 MLB Draft. Still an active player, Tucker has appeared in parts of three MLB seasons with the Astros, Braves and Reds. He owns 23 career home runs and 38 doubles in 243 big-league games.
Scottie Wilbekin | Men's Basketball, 2011-14
Scottie Wilbekin
In his senior season of 2013-14, Scottie Wilbekin became the only Gator in program history to earn SEC Player of the Year, SEC Tournament MVP and NCAA Regional Most Outstanding Player in the same season, doing so while leading Florida to a perfect 18-0 SEC record, SEC regular season and tournament titles, a 30-game win streak, a No. 1 national ranking and the 2014 Final Four. After forgoing his senior season of high school to enroll at UF at 17 years old, Wilbekin immediately became a regular part of Florida's rotation before assuming the starting point guard role in his junior season. The Gainesville native went on to be a two-time All-SEC honoree and two-time SEC All-Defensive Team and still ranks among Florida's all-time leaders in games played (fifth, 143), assists (ninth, 419) and steals (ninth, 167), and his 174 assists in 2012-13 rank as the No. 7 single-season total in team history.
Wilbekin was part of three SEC championship teams (2011, 2013, 2014) and 13 NCAA Tournament wins, advancing to the Elite Eight his first three seasons before leading the Gators to the Final Four as a senior. Alongside Casey Prather, Will Yegeute and Patric Young, Wilbekin's senior class rates as the winningest class in Florida men's basketball history, recording 120 wins with an .800 winning percentage over their four seasons. In addition to 2013-14's record-setting 30-game winning streak, Wilbekin and his class provided the lion's share of the victories in program-record streaks of 33 home wins, nine road wins, 21 SEC wins, 20 home SEC wins and 10 road SEC wins. The Gators recorded 18 top-25 wins over the course of Wilbekin's career.
Wilbekin totaled 953 points over his career, averaging a career-best 13.1 points per game as a senior, including a 15.3 scoring average on .444 3-point shooting over the Gators' seven postseason wins in 2014.
Honorary Letterwinner
Becky Burleigh
Becky Burleigh - Florida Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2024
Synonymous with the program she took from start to NCAA champions in four seasons, Burleigh's teams consistently challenged for national and Southeastern Conference titles. Florida's 14 team titles leads the SEC and the program earned NCAA Tournament berths 22 times in her 26 seasons with the Gators.
Burleigh's teams achievements include 22 NCAA Championships' berths (1996-2001; 2003-2017; 2019), Two NCAA College Cup appearances (1998, 2001), winning 1998 NCAA title, 14 SEC team titles (1996-2001; 2006-2010; 2012-13, 2015) and 12 SEC Tournament titles (1996-01; 2004; 2007, 2010, 2012, 2015-16)
The 1998 NSCAA/adidas National Coach of the Year after leading the four-year old Gator soccer program to that season's national title, Burleigh also was tabbed as the SEC Coach of the Year five times (2012, 2010, 2008, 2000 & 1996). Twenty-two Gators claimed 37 United Soccer Coaches All-America honors and Danielle Fotopoulos was the 1998 Honda Award winner as national player of the year. SEC Player of the Year accolades were claimed by 11 players 15 times.
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We were thrilled to welcome University of Florida's Tennis Great, Qavia Lopez to the Camellia Rose Inn this week! Qavia is one of our StayGainesville R.E.P. Program members and earns discounts for her herself, family and friends at our properties. We want to honor our Gainesville greats by partnering with them so that their family members can stay in the best properties in Gainesville. No more cookie-cutter hotels for our UF athletes. We offer 2 beautiful Inns in downtown Gainesville, as well as homes and condos near UF Campus. StayGainesville and Camellia Rose Inn owners, Susannah Peddie, had the pleasure of personally welcoming Qavia to the Inn on Monday night. We were thrilled to welcome her! Qavia's comments after her stay: "The Inn was great! It was very homey, and the breakfast was amazing. Thank you so much for the hospitality!" Thank YOU, Qavia, so much for staying with us! Learn all about UF's talented Qavia (Source: https://floridagators.com/sports/womens-tennis/roster/qavia-lopez/16283 ): Top-ranked recruit in the nation for 2023 women's tennis class Babola No.1 recruit in the nation Earned five-star and blue-chip honors Holds a No. 19 career best international tennis federation ranking Reached the semi-finals of the 2022 J1 Nottingham, JB1 Indian Wells, and JA Criciuma tournaments Participated in the 2022 Wimbledon Junior Championships and 2022 Junior Australian Open In doubles competition she has claimed four titles, winning the 2022 JB1 Indian Wells title, 2021 JB1 Nicholasville and JB1 San Diego titles and 2020 J3 Lousada title Follow Qavia on InstaGram: https://www.instagram.com/qavia.lopez/?hl=en Learn more about our REP Program Gator athletes are welcome to apply using the form on the StayGainesville REP Program information page . StayGainesville Launches StayGainesville REP Program: Rewarding Support for University of Florida Athletes GAINESVILLE, FL (April 22, 2024): Today, StayGainesville, a leading provider of temporary housing solutions in Gainesville, Florida, announces the launch of the StayGainesville REP (Refer, Earn, Post) Program. This innovative program aims to support University of Florida (UF) student-athletes and their families visiting Gainesville for athletic events. Student Athlete Program (staygainesville.com). Understanding the Needs of Student-Athletes: StayGainesville recognizes the unique challenges faced by UF student-athletes and their families. During busy athletic seasons, families may need comfortable and convenient housing for short-term stays. StayGainesville offers a wide range of accommodation types from large family homes to quaint bedrooms in our StayGainesville Inn properties, The Laurel Oak Inn and the Camellia Rose Inn. StayGainesville offers a wide range of fully-furnished rental properties, strategically located near UF's athletic facilities. Their rentals provide a comfortable and convenient home away from home, equipped with amenities to ensure a relaxing stay. The StayGainesville REP Program: The StayGainesville REP Program provides a win-win situation for UF student-athletes and their families. Here's how it works: UF student-athletes: Athletes can easily refer their families and fans to StayGainesville for temporary housing needs while earning monetary rewards based on number of nights stayed and promotion of StayGainesville on their social media accounts. Families: Families receive a significant discount on their stay at any StayGainesville rental property. This discount ensures comfortable and convenient housing at an affordable price. Become a StayGainesville Ambassador: For Athletes looking to earn higher rewards and show their support for local Gainesville businesses, StayGainesville has a Student Ambassador program that entails participating in local events supporting the thriving Gainesville community. Ambassadors will also have access to the catalog of StayGainesville Experience partnerships offering discounts on local goods and services usually reserved for Guests at a StayGainesville property. A Commitment to Supporting UF's Finest: "We are thrilled to launch the StayGainesville REP Program," says CEO, Susannah Peddie. "UF student-athletes dedicate themselves to excellence, and we want to ensure their families have a comfortable and supportive environment during visits. This program allows us to give back to the UF community and athletes while providing exceptional housing solutions." Contact: Susannah Peddie, CEO StayGainesville info@staygainesville.com www.staygainesville.com
Cultivating Creativity: A Journey Through the Gainesville Fine Arts Association Website: https://www.gainesvillefinearts.org/ Address: 1314 S Main Street in Gainesville, Florida Founded in 1923, the GFAA boasts a rich history as a champion of the arts, nurturing local talent and fostering a love for creativity within the Gainesville community. More Than Just an Art Gallery: A Hub for Artistic Exploration Step inside the stately, red-bricked GFAA building, and you'll be greeted by a welcoming atmosphere that pulsates with artistic energy. While the GFAA Gallery showcases captivating exhibitions featuring both established and emerging artists, the organization's mission extends far beyond displaying art. It's a vibrant hub for artistic exploration, offering a diverse range of programs and services that cater to all ages and skill levels. A Gallery that Speaks Volumes: Diverse Exhibitions Throughout the Year The GFAA Gallery is a dynamic platform for artistic expression. Throughout the year, it hosts a curated selection of exhibitions that showcase a variety of mediums and artistic styles. From thought-provoking contemporary pieces to captivating photography exhibits, the gallery offers something to ignite the imagination of every visitor. Nurturing Artistic Seedlings: The GFAA's Renowned Education Programs One of the cornerstones of the GFAA is its unwavering commitment to art education. The organization offers a comprehensive curriculum of classes and workshops for all ages and artistic backgrounds. Whether you're a child yearning to explore the world of painting or an adult seeking to refine your pottery skills, the GFAA has a program designed to help you unlock your creative potential. Experienced instructors guide students through various artistic disciplines, fostering a love for learning and a supportive environment for artistic exploration. A Celebration of Local Talent: The Annual Student Juried Exhibition A highlight of the GFAA's educational efforts is the annual Student Juried Exhibition. This prestigious event showcases the exceptional work of students enrolled in the GFAA's art classes. The exhibition provides a platform for aspiring artists to gain valuable recognition, compete for scholarships, and see their work displayed in a professional setting. It's a testament to the GFAA's dedication to nurturing the next generation of artistic talent in Gainesville. Beyond the Classroom Walls: Fostering a Creative Community The GFAA's commitment to fostering a vibrant arts community extends beyond its walls. The organization hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including artist talks, gallery receptions, and community art walks. These events provide opportunities for artists to connect with the public, share their creative journeys, and inspire others. A Legacy of Impact: The GFAA's Enduring Influence on Gainesville For over 70 years, the GFAA has played a pivotal role in shaping Gainesville's cultural landscape. It has nurtured countless local artists, providing them with a platform to showcase their work, hone their skills, and connect with a supportive community. The GFAA's educational programs have instilled a love for art in generations of Gainesville residents, enriching their lives and fostering a deeper appreciation for creativity. More Than Just Art Classes: A Space for Artistic Connection Visiting the GFAA isn't just about admiring art or taking a class; it's about connecting with the vibrant artistic spirit of Gainesville. The GFAA fosters a welcoming environment where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together to celebrate art, learn new skills, and share their passion for creativity. Whether you're browsing the gallery exhibits, participating in a workshop, or simply attending an artist talk, you'll be surrounded by a community that values artistic expression. A Destination for Everyone: Why You Should Visit the Gainesville Fine Arts Association The GFAA offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art in Gainesville. Here are just a few reasons why: Experience Diverse Exhibitions: Immerse yourself in a variety of artistic styles and mediums throughout the year, from thought-provoking contemporary pieces to captivating photography exhibits. Discover Your Inner Artist: Explore your creativity through the GFAA's comprehensive art education programs, with classes and workshops catering to all ages and skill levels. Support Local Talent: Witness the exceptional work of emerging artists at the annual Student Juried Exhibition and contribute to Gainesville's thriving arts scene. Connect with the Artistic Community: Attend artist talks, gallery receptions, and community art walks to engage with local artists and fellow art enthusiasts. Spark a Lifelong Love of Art: Whether you're an aspiring artist or simply appreciate beauty, the GFAA offers a welcoming space to explore your creativity and deepen your appreciation for the arts. Planning Your Visit to the Gainesville Fine Arts Association The Gainesville Fine Arts Association is located at 131 4 S Main Street in Gainesville, Florida. It's open Tuesday through Friday from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM and on Saturday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Before you visit, check out their website (https://www.gainesvillefinearts.org/) for upcoming exhibitions, class schedules, and special events. You can also follow them on social media for a sneak peek at the current exhibits and a glimpse into the vibrant artistic community they cultivate. A Look to the Future: The GFAA's Continued Commitment to Creativity The Gainesville Fine Arts Association's story is far from over. As the organization embarks on its next chapter, it remains dedicated to its core mission – fostering a love for the arts and nurturing artistic talent in Gainesville. With innovative programming, a dedication to inclusivity, and an unwavering passion for creativity, the GFAA is poised to continue its legacy as a cornerstone of Gainesville's cultural scene for years to come. So, next time you find yourself in Gainesville, take a detour from the well-trodden paths and explore the Gainesville Fine Arts Association. You might just discover your inner artist, witness the burgeoning talent of local creators, or simply be inspired by the sheer power of artistic expression. The GFAA is more than just an art gallery; it's a vibrant hub of creativity, a testament to the enduring power of art in enriching lives and shaping communities. Looking for a place to stay while visiting the local Gainesville attractions? Look no further than Gainesville's locally owned vacation rental company, StayGainesville . Book directly on our site, or call us at 352-519-3994 for guidance. For homes and condos, StayGainesville has many options- large and small/ budget and luxury, and more. For a shorter stay, we have 2 beautiful historic Inns in downtown Gainesville. The Camellia Rose Inn and The Laurel Oak Inn - both have unique personalities and they both feel like a home away from home. Looking for more things to do in Gainesville? Visit our Things to Do link.
