ESPN 98.1 FM / 850 AM WRUF ESPN 98.1 FM / 850 AM WRUF
The Florida football team is wrapping up phase one of head coach Billy Napier’s eight-phase offseason program. And while the foundation for the Billy Napier era is officially laid, the program is transitioning to phase two: identity.
Day 1: Identity
Find out what you’re made of. #GoGators | #UFuture pic.twitter.com/W1NqJLCsep
— Florida Gators Football (@GatorsFB) February 12, 2022
Billy Napier offseason program for Florida football
A look back at Phase 1
Starting on Friday, Florida football is transitioning from the first phase which was the “foundation” stage. Meanwhile, phase two of the year-round program will focus on building the team’s identity.
The foundation has been laid.#GoGators | #UFuture pic.twitter.com/rMiMiU0Nbr
— Florida Gators Football (@GatorsFB) February 11, 2022
The foundation phase of Napier’s plan centers around recruiting and coaching staff hires. While the team has been busy physically during the offseason with weight-lifting, the program will now look to build more mental toughness.
Billy Napier on what to expect from Phase 2
According to Napier, the identity program is an opportunity to develop leadership on the team. Similarly, the phase will give coaches and staff an opportunity to plan out what to expect from players.
On Friday, Napier explained to media what the program looks to accomplish throughout the identity phase of the offseason.
He further expanded on how the program is not based on evaluating physical talent or ability. Rather, the second phase plans to emphasize and instill self-discipline to give an opportunity for all players to develop.
In addition, Napier explained the specifics of the program and how the phase will build both physical and mental toughness.
As for what type of adversities players are set to face, he outlined instances such as receiving instructions, executing tasks at hand and playing with “fanatical effort.” Above all, Napier is looking to establish a team identity that sets the Florida program apart.
ɪᴅᴇɴᴛɪᴛʏ • decide you’re going to be different.#GoGators | #UFuture pic.twitter.com/eaw8yHHxwK
— Florida Gators Football (@GatorsFB) February 12, 2022
When asked what he envisions that identity to be, Napier expressed different qualities and traits he wants to develop in players.
The program will lead into spring practice and conclude with the Florida football spring game on April 16. Kick off for the Orange and Blue game will take place at 1 p.m.
