Spring is in the air and you’ve got one thing on your mind… college game day. From Orlando to Gainesville to Tampa, we’ve got your insider’s guide to Central Florida’s college sports. Whether you’re an alumnus of one of our many schools looking to see the old stomping grounds, do a little tailgating and catch a game, or you’re a visiting team, we’ve got the lowdown on everything you need to know for your trip.
But First… The Teams
Our Central Florida colleges offer the best in springtime sports. From the baseball diamond and tennis court to the putting green on the 18th hole and more, the heat is on… and it’s not just from our gorgeous, sun-kissed weather! Check out some of the hottest college sports in the area – you’ll want to have a front row seat to catch all of the action. Simply click on the links for schedules and tickets.
Baseball
- University of Florida Gators
- University of South Florida Bulls
- University of Central Florida
- University of Tampa Spartans
- Southeastern University Fire
Women’s Softball
- University of Florida Gators
- University of South Florida Bulls
- University of Central Florida
- University of Tampa Spartans
- Southeastern University Fire
Tennis
- University of Florida Gators: Men’s | Women’s
- University of South Florida Bulls: Men’s | Women’s
- University of Central Florida: Men’s | Women’s
- University of Tampa Spartans: Women’s
- Southeastern University Fire: Men’s | Women’s
Golf
- University of Florida Gators: Men’s | Women’s
- University of South Florida Bulls: Men’s | Women’s
- University of Central Florida: Men’s | Women’s
- University of Tampa Spartans: Men’s | Women’s
- Southeastern University Fire: Men’s | Women’s
Did we miss your school or favorite sport? Please reach out to us and we’ll be happy to provide you with the inside scoop on everything from lacrosse, volleyball and cross country to gymnastics, track & field and more!
Insider Tips
Weather: The thing about Florida in the springtime is you’ll want to know how to dress for a day outside. From those rare lows of 57° to “grab the sunscreen, it’s going to be 89° today,” to the spring rains of Florida, it’s essential that you watch the forecast. Plan for warm days and cooler nights.
The Food: Orlando fans just say no to burgers and dogs. They want hot wing sliders and pulled pork, grilled cheese sandwiches. If they’ve got their tailgating A-game on, they’re taking bites in between Cornhole tosses. For those of you getting your game on in Gainesville, corn on the grill is a game day staple and by far the best grub in town. And if your taste buds are in Tampa, you must go Cuban. Check out the award-winning Pipo’s (yes, they cater).
Tailgate Guys: If you’re in Gainesville or Tampa, experience the best in tailgating, from designer tents, catering and TV packages to parking and bellhop services. USF Bulls | University of Florida Gators
After the Game: For those moments you just want to relax and soak in the sun and sights of Central Florida, your choices are countless – we’ve got something for everyone. Enjoy Orlando’s Leu Gardens (a 50-acre botanical oasis on Lake Rowena), Disney and Universal Studio theme parks, and the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. Or take part in Tampa’s Gasparilla Festival and the Florida Strawberry Festival each spring in Lakeland. You’ll be busy morning, noon and night!
Book Your Vacation Home Accommodations and Let the Games Begin
The big game is the perfect time for family and friends to come together and get the fun started with pre-game festivities all the way through to the celebratory after party. Forget trying to get all of your hotel rooms on the same floor – plan your vacation in style with a vacation home rental at Encore Resort at Reunion! Our guard-gated community features modern, beautifully decorated 4- to 13-bedroom homes with backyard pools, washer/dryer units and fully equipped kitchens, plus resort-style amenities like an AquaPark and free shuttle.
Home Away from Home for Our Visiting Teams
But wait – are you the visiting team? Great! When your team does a vacation home rental with Encore Resort at Reunion, we’ve got you covered with exclusive sports team packages. Each of our homes offers spacious common areas to allow the entire team space to socialize, relax or plan the day’s scheduled activities. Our packages include catering for your team and transportation to several locations throughout Central Florida, including ESPN’s Wide World of Sports, Amway Center, places to hold team meetings and so much more.
You know what else happens in the spring: March Madness! While you’re here, catch your favorite team in action on one of the big screens at ESPN’s Wide World of Sports or from the comfort of your vacation home living room. Contact us today!
