Head coach Amanda Butler has long said that one of the most important things she does as a coach is develop good people — not just good basketball players.
One of the ways she does that is by getting her team involved in the Gainesville community.
In the wake of Florida’s No. 20 ranking in this week’s AP poll, Butler’s desire to develop her players as people rather than as athletes is likely to be overlooked.
But for Florida’s coach and several team members, giving to others overshadows any record, ranking or form of recognition.
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Among the places that the Florida team volunteers are UF Health Shands Hospital and Girl’s Place, an after-school program in north Gainesville dedicated to improving the lives of young girls in the community.