FORT MYERS, Fla.- The Ave Maria University Ultimate Frisbee team continued their winning streak after traveling to Florida Gulf Coast University for a three-game clash. The Gyrenes improved their record to 8-0, earning decisive victories over their opponents, beating Florida Polytechnic University 13-1, University of Central Florida 13-3, and FGCU 13-5.
Ave Maria began the day facing off against Florida Poly. The Gyrenes marched into halftime up 7-0 and closed out the game 13-1. The team's ability to swing the disc and open up throwing lanes on the opposite side of the field enabled a high involvement from the whole team. Seven different players collected at least one score against Florida Poly.
Next, the team played UCF and again came out strong, outscoring their opponent 7-1 in the first half. The Gyrenes stayed hot in the second half, notching a 13-3 victory. The team benefited from well-balanced play, notably from Senior Zach Gunn and Sophomore Isaac Landrum. Between the two of them, the pair tallied three blocks, four assists, and two scores.
Finally, the Gyrenes closed out the day with a match up against FGCU. The team's depth was highlighted in this game by a high rotation of players, enabling the Gyrenes to overcome tired legs and play with intensity. The 13-5 victory marks the third win against FGCU this season.
Over the course of the day, the Gyrenes displayed excellence on both offense and defense. Sophomore Matthew Lesniewski shined with 16 scores. On the defensive side, 11 different players tallied at least one block, totaling 17 blocks for the day.
Coach Michael Middendorf was encouraged by the team's strong start, hailing their capacity to compete at a high level.
"What stood out was our team's ability to make adjustments during the game," Middendorf said. "This tells us that we are in a very good position to do well at Regionals. We still have a long season ahead of us and will work from that mindset."
Ave Maria's next match up is set for March 31st, at 7PM, in Steubenville, Ohio. The Gyrenes will challenge Franciscan University, which is ranked 22nd in the nation for Division III schools.
