West Orange's Hill gearing up for Gator football campaign

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.