Nick Calathes leaves for Greece on Saturday.

The talented Florida guard, who had a terrific freshman campaign, has never been before – but will make the trip in an effort to make the Greek Olympic team.

Calathes’ grandfather, John, was born and raised in the country.

``He passed away last year and he’d be very happy about me going,” Calathes said. “It’s also a great opportunity for me to go, represent my family and Florida.”

Calathes, who doesn’t know a single player trying out, said he is hoping to make the Olympic team and would stay in Greece until late August. If not, he’ll likely be on the under-21 national team and would return in the middle of August.

``I’m a little nervous,” Calathes said.

Calathes said that he’s already noticed a difference in the Florida program – and the increase in work ethic. The team has been playing pickup against ex-Gators Al Horford, Taurean Green and Lee Humphrey daily while the trio is in Gainesville for summer school classes.

Calathes said that Horford, Green, Humphrey and former walk-on Brett Swanson play together and pick up one of the current players each day.

He also said that the loss of big man Marreese Speights to the NBA Draft hurts, especially in the pick and roll.

``He caught everything,” Calathes said. “But we’ve got some freshman coming in with size and they know they’ll have roles since we’ve only got seven guys back. I think we’ll be able to play small or big – but we’ll be a more up and down team next year.”