25 Facts About The Gasparilla Bowl

What is the Gasparilla Bowl?

The Gasparilla Bowl is a college football bowl game played annually in Florida. It has a rich history and some interesting quirks that make it stand out. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this event.

1. The Gasparilla Bowl was first played in 2008, making it a relatively new addition to the college football bowl lineup.

2. Originally called the St. Petersburg Bowl, the game was rebranded as the Gasparilla Bowl in 2017.

3. The bowl is named after the mythical pirate José Gaspar, who is said to have terrorized the waters of West Florida.

4. Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, was the original venue for the game until it moved to Raymond James Stadium in Tampa in 2018.

5. The game is typically held in December, adding to the festive holiday season atmosphere.

Teams and Matchups

The teams that compete in the Gasparilla Bowl come from various conferences, making for some exciting and unpredictable matchups.

6. The bowl has tie-ins with the American Athletic Conference (AAC) and Conference USA (C-USA), ensuring a diverse range of teams.

7. In some years, teams from the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and the Southeastern Conference (SEC) have also participated.

8. The first game in 2008 featured the University of South Florida Bulls against the Memphis Tigers, with South Florida emerging victorious.

9. The 2019 game saw the UCF Knights take on the Marshall Thundering Herd, with UCF winning 48-25.

10. The 2020 game was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, marking the first time the event was not held since its inception.

Memorable Moments

The Gasparilla Bowl has had its share of memorable moments that have left a lasting impression on fans and players alike.

11. In 2015, the game featured a thrilling overtime finish where Marshall defeated Connecticut 16-10.

12. The 2017 game saw Temple University secure its first bowl victory since 2011 by defeating Florida International University 28-3.

13. The 2018 game was notable for being the first played at Raymond James Stadium, home of the NFL's Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

14. In 2019, UCF's Dillon Gabriel threw for 260 yards and two touchdowns, earning him the MVP award.

15. The 2014 game had a record attendance of 26,675 fans, showcasing the growing popularity of the event.

Community Impact

The Gasparilla Bowl isn't just about football; it also has a significant impact on the local community.

16. The bowl game generates millions of dollars in economic impact for the Tampa Bay area each year.

17. It provides a platform for local businesses to gain exposure through sponsorship and advertising opportunities.

18. The event includes various community outreach programs, such as youth football clinics and charity events.

19. The Gasparilla Bowl Parade is a popular local event that features floats, marching bands, and, of course, pirates.

20. The game also supports local charities, with a portion of the proceeds going to organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs.

Fun Facts

Here are some quirky and fun facts that add to the charm of the Gasparilla Bowl.

21. The bowl's mascot, Captain Fear, is a pirate who roams the sidelines during the game, entertaining fans.

22. The trophy awarded to the winning team features a pirate ship, staying true to the Gasparilla theme.

23. The game is often accompanied by a "Battle of the Bands" competition, where the participating schools' marching bands face off.

24. The Gasparilla Bowl is one of the few bowl games that has been played in both a baseball stadium (Tropicana Field) and a football stadium (Raymond James Stadium).

25. The bowl's name change in 2017 was part of a broader effort to connect the event more closely with Tampa's pirate-themed Gasparilla Festival, which takes place annually in January.

The Final Whistle

The Gasparilla Bowl is more than just a football game. It's a celebration of college football, community spirit, and Tampa Bay's rich history. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a must-watch event, the bowl has grown in popularity and significance. Fans eagerly await the matchups, the thrilling plays, and the unforgettable moments that define each game. Whether you're a die-hard football enthusiast or just enjoy a good sporting event, the Gasparilla Bowl offers something for everyone. So, next time December rolls around, grab your tickets, don your team colors, and get ready to be part of a tradition that brings excitement and joy to countless fans. The Gasparilla Bowl isn't just a game; it's an experience that leaves lasting memories.