Sebring Standout Is Newest Gator Commit



Sebring senior Taylor Tubbs has had a huge impact on the Blue Streaks' program the four years she has been a member. She has served as cross country and track captains and holds school records in the 800, 1600, 3200, and 5k. Recently, Tubbs commited to the University of Florida. She tells flrunners what went into the decision, what she is looking forward to, and much more!

What was the recruiting process like for you?
 
The recruiting process was a whirlwind. I had never experienced anything like it before and was very unsure about how to go about any of it. Coach Spangler was great answering all of my questions. I loved speaking to many new people that I would never have had the opportunity to meet without running. I only went on official visits to two schools actually. I went to Columbia University, which was a great experience. I went without my parents and had never been to NYC before either. The second visit was--of course--UF.
 
Why in the end did you pick the Gators?
 
I ended up picking UF in the end because it was my dream. If you had asked me a year ago about running there, I would have laughed and said, "I wish. I'll never be that good." My running really started improving and it's amazing to finally be able to call myself a Gator. After my visit I was extremely impressed with all of the benefits offered to the athletes; they get to train on the golf course, they have special student advisors, team nutritionists, a running lab, and a great weight program. I feel like I have a huge opportunity to improve my running from high school to my collegiate career through the facilities at UF.

Obviously, there are a lot of Florida girls on the team. How was the comfort level with the girls?
 
Every girl I met on the team was extremely nice and welcoming. My hosts, Julie Macedo and Shelby Davidson, were freshman on the team. I could see myself fitting in well with the entire group of girls.

What are you most looking forward to the most running wise and outside of running?
 
I'm looking forward to, of course, running faster. The whole college experience is going to be great. I want to make lots of friends and memories that last a lifetime!
 
How important is it to get it out of the way so you can focus on these last couple weeks of cross?
 
I'm the type of person that gets my assignments done for school two weeks before they're due. I wasn't rushing my college decision, but after my visit I knew that this was the place that I wanted to be. So why wait? I committed and I'm so glad to be able to just focus on school and running. Most of my classmates are still working on their applications, and I've already decided where I'm going. How lucky can a girl be!
 
What are your goals for the rest of this year and in college?
 
I would love to get another PR in cross country this year. The only meets I have left are the state tournament meets, so I'm hoping to turn out some fast times. In college I hope to focus on the 1500 and score points for my Gators!

Personal Bests

  • 1,600 Meter Run5:00.94

  • 3200 Meter Run12:01.99

  • 5,000 Meter Run18:53.10

  • 800 Meter Run2:17.71

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