Aug. 10, 2009
ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFAthletics.com) - Redshirt sophomore A.J. Guyton (Homestead, Fla.) is currently gearing up for the 2009 football season with his teammates during preseason camp, and the wide receiver is also preparing to get on the field on game day for the first time since his true freshman season in 2007. After contributing significantly as a freshman, Guyton missed the entire 2008 campaign with an injury.
The Homestead High School product exploded onto the scene as a freshman, snagging a team-high five catches in UCF's season-opening win at N.C. State. The total propelled him to 23 receptions on the season totaling 253 yards. Guyton also had touchdown catches against East Carolina and UTEP.
To see Guyton and the Knights in action seven times this fall at Bright House Networks Stadium, order season tickets today. For more information, call the UCF Ticket Office at (407) UCF-1000. Monday's practice will run from 3:20-5:30 as UCF will don full pads for the first time this fall. Each preseason practice is open to all media and fans.
UCFAthletics.com recently caught up with Guyton as he and his teammates prepare for the season opener with Sanford at Bright House Networks Stadium on Sept. 5.
What was the highlight of your summer and where did you spend most of it?
"I have spent most of it here training and working out and just getting ready for the season, especially coming off of my injuries."
What are most looking forward to about the upcoming season and why?
"Just getting back out there on the field with my teammates. It was hard sitting out last year watching. I am looking forward to hopefully helping them win some games this year."
Where do you think you improved on the most over the offseason as an individual?
"I think I improved on my strength, getting my legs stronger. I also spent a lot of time with the playbook learning the plays much better. I think I improved in a lot of different categories."
What do you think will be the biggest differences in the team this season compared to last season?
"Biggest difference will be if everyone can stay healthy. If everyone can stay healthy we will make a strong run for that championship. That is our goal for everyone to stay healthy and try to win games. "
What do you think the most important part of preseason practice is in preparing for the season and why?
"The most important part is just being consistent everyday. Working hard everyday and becoming a family everyday. Getting closer together each day will help us a lot during the season."
What do you see as the keys to your team having success this season?
"Everyone being on the same page. On both sides of the ball everyone knowing their assignments and everyone contributing on special teams. If we all come together as one unit, we can be very successful."
For the offense, you have a lot of players back with more experience under their belts. How do you that will help the offense improve this season?
"That will help the offensive tremendously. If someone gets tired or gets injured and has to come out, someone will be ready to step in and help. All of us being on the same page and all of us having experience will help us in those situations."
For the offensive side of the ball as a whole and for your position group specifically, what will be the main focus or goal this season?
"Last year coach preached consistency and not everyone was on the same page. This season everyone needs to be consistent and be on the same page. We need to work together to get better each and every day and each and every practice."
What are your goals individually this season?
"Just to help my teammates go out and win games and hopefully get to that championship."
For the latest news on the Knights, log on to UCFAthletics.com - the official site for UCF varsity sports. The site, which also contains ticket and Golden Knights Club donor information, is also the home of UCF's new online apparel store. Also visit UCFPhotos.com, the exclusive fan source for UCF action sports pictures.