By Joe Ragozzino
Sports editor
West Orange native Will Hill is getting ready for his junior season for the University of Florida football team.
Hill, a 6-foot-1, 207-pound safety, made five starts last season, appearing in all 14 games as the Gators finished with a 13-1 record, capped by the Sugar Bowl win over Cincinnati. Florida, who won the national championship for the 2008 season, finished No. 3 in the country in the 2009 Associated Press poll.
Hill made a total of 42 tackles, including 31 solo, and led the team in special teams’ tackles for the second straight season, finishing with 13 tackles in kickoff and punt coverage.
Hill, a 2008 graduate of St. Peter’s Prep in Jersey City, was one of the top-rated high school players in the country, earning first-team All-American honors by USA Today.
As a blue-chip prospect, he was ranked No. 2 overall in the ESPN 150, and ranked No. 5 overall by Scout.com and the top-rated safety.
Hill, who also played quarterback, led St. Peter’s Prep to a 34-2 record in three years, including a 12-0 mark and the NJSIAA Non-Public Group 4 championship as a sophomore.
The Gators kick off the season on Sept. 4 at home against Miami of Ohio at noon.
The following is a Q&A with Hill.
Q: What are some of the things you like about the Florida football program and attending school at the University of Florida?
A: I love the drive. Whether it’s on the field or academically, the drive to be the best is no different. Everyone wants to be the best here.
Q: What are your personal goals for the season and for the rest of your career?
A: My personal goal is to help the team get back to Atlanta and then win another national championship.
Q: Who has been a major influence for you and why?
A: My father, ever since day one, has pushed me and motivated me.
Q: What is your goal after graduating Florida?
A: Hopefully to play in the NFL after I graduate with a degree.
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