Billy Gonzales, who recently stepped into the role of interim head football coach for the Florida Gators, remains focused on instilling a sense of motivation and energy into his team. Since his promotion on October 19, Gonzales has maintained his daily routine, which includes texting himself notes for reflection and taking hour-long walks around the campus, starting from the Heavener Football Training Center and looping around Lake Alice.
This consistent routine helps Gonzales prepare for his upcoming head coaching debut with a solid game plan. “It’s an honor. I’m very humbled to have the opportunity to do it,” he remarked, highlighting his respect for the position he now holds.
With two weeks to prepare for the critical rivalry game against the Bulldogs, Gonzales is eager to implement strategies that will put his players in the best positions to succeed—a principle he learned from former Gators head coach Urban Meyer. Gonzales believes that every position coach acts as a head coach within their unit, a mindset he intends to carry into his new role.
Discipline remains a key focus for Gonzales, who has personally navigated challenges in his life, including a weight transformation that he attributes to his regular walking routine. Despite the added attention that comes with being the head coach, Gonzales humorously noted, “Nobody knows who I am. That hasn’t changed.”
His humor and competitive nature have quickly resonated with the players, especially the wide receivers he has previously coached. Senior wide receiver J. Michael Sturdivant expressed confidence in Gonzales’s leadership, stating, “We all love Billy G, and we all respect him and trust him. He’s a big energy guy.”
As he prepares for his team’s first game under his leadership against No. 5 Georgia on November 1 in Jacksonville, Gonzales remains committed to fostering a culture of pride among his players. “I think it’s an honor to teach these young men to play for the patch,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of representing the Gator brand and their loyal fanbase.
The upcoming game presents an opportunity for Gonzales and the Gators to forge a new path, allowing the players to shine under his guidance and carry on the legacy of their storied program.