Schnulle Joins Gator Nation

Dec 13, 2011

Charlotte senior Ryan Schnulle has had a successful high school career for the Tarpons. Last year Schnulle was a part of the second fastest 4x8 team ever assembled placing second at New Balance Outdoor Nationals. He was also second in the 800 and 4th in the 1600 at state leading the Tarpons to another team title. Recently, Schnulle decided to end his college recruitment and commit to the University of Florida. He says he felt comfortable there from the moment he set foot on campus.

"I had been on UF's campus many other times mostly for races, but it was a bit easier to take a step back and really get a feel for what goes on there every day. I felt that Florida was a place I could see myself going for four years and I enjoyed getting to know the team. I feel the program is headed in the right direction and I know all of the guys have high hopes for the next couple of years and I want to be a part of that and contribute."

Add to that the fact that Schnulle has been a lifelong Gator fan and the decision was simple. Schnulle is familiar with some of the Gators, but one in particular. Freshman Tyler Cardillo was a teammate of Schnulle's at Charlotte and someone he considers one of his best friends.

"I'm pretty excited to see Ty and some of the other guys I know from Charlotte. It's great being able to go to Florida knowing that I have some of my best friends there. At some other schools I wouldn't have had that luxury. I also know a lot of guys on the team from competing against them the past couple years through cross country and track and field."

Schnulle finished 43rd at this year's Cross Country State Finals. His time of 16:32.99 is nearly a minute slower than his personal best of 15:21.86. It's no secret that his heart is in track and field, but says when it comes down to what events he will run at the next level he is open to anything.

"I haven't talked about the specifics of what I'd be running or focusing on, but I feel like I'm a stronger track guy than cross country runner especially after this cross country season. I'm willing to run whatever events Coach Morgan and Coach Holloway ask whether that be a 10k or 800 whichever way I can contribute best for the team."

The Charlotte standout chose the Gators over a close battle with Georgetown. He says Florida is getting a team oriented, hard working, dedicated athlete and he is looking forward to getting up to Gainesville being a part of Gator Nation.

"I'm excited about the program and all of the high caliber athletes on the team and hopefully more to come. I'm thrilled to watch these guys compete this year and join them next year. They have VERY high goals for the next couple years and I would love nothing more than to contribute to those goals."

Speaking of high goals, now that Schnulle has his college mapped out, he has business to attend to in his final high school track season. He says more rings and maybe a new event are in the future plans.

"My goals for this upcoming track season are to hopefully secure a 3-peat State Championship for Charlotte and score as many points as I can. I'm not sure 100% on which events I'll run, but I'd love to PR in the 800, mile, and try out a few 400's!"