G

Growing up in Apopka, Martez Ivey always wanted to play for the Florida Gators.

As his dream nears an end, Ivey looks to leave on a high note, with the program in better shape than he found it.

The next three games, including Ivey’s final two in the Swamp, will help shape the opinion of Ivey’s senior class along with head coach Dan Mullen’s first season in Gainesville.

Two weeks ago, Florida returned to the top 10 in the national rankings for the first time since Ivey’s freshman season but just as quickly lost two games by a combined 40 points.

The dramatic highs and lows are nothing new for Ivey. Recruited by Will Muschamp and signed in 2015 by Jim McElwain, he has played in two SEC title games and two New Year’s Day bowls. Ivey also suffered through a 4-7 2017 season and McElwain’s ouster.

While it’s been a rollercoaster, the 23-year-old left tackle said he has enjoyed the ride.

“I don’t know how I’ll feel when it’s all said and done and it’s my last game here,” he said Tuesday. “But I wouldn’t trade it for nothing in the world.”