History of Florida Gators in Timeline
The Florida Gators, representing the University of Florida in Gainesville, are a prominent force in intercollegiate athletics. Known as the "Gator Nation," their reach extends to the university, its alumni, the athletic program, and its passionate fans. The Gators compete in the NCAA and the SEC, consistently earning high rankings among U.S. college sports programs. With teams in nine men's and twelve women's sports, the Gators' athletic prowess is showcased across a diverse range of disciplines.
1906: The Genesis of Florida Gators Athletics
The University of Florida established its sports program shortly after its inception in Gainesville in 1906, marking the beginning of the Florida Gators' rich athletic history. The university adopted the colors orange and blue, likely a combination of the colors from the institutions that merged to form it.
1906: First Varsity Football Team
The University of Florida fielded its first official varsity football team in 1906, defeating the Gainesville Athletic Club 6–0 in its first game.
1908: The Alligator: From Pennant to Mascot
The alligator, a creature native to Florida, is believed to have become the school's mascot in 1908 when Gainesville merchant Phillip Miller featured it on pennants he designed for students.
1911: The Gators Emerge: A New Identity
The Florida Gators football team adopted their iconic nickname, "Gators," in 1911. While the exact origin remains debated, one theory suggests it stemmed from a sportswriter's description of their victory over Clemson as an "invasion of alligators from Florida."
1912: University of Florida joins the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association
In 1912, the university joined the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association.
1921: University of Florida leaves the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association
The University of Florida was a member of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association until 1921.
1922: University of Florida joins the Southern Conference
In 1922, the University of Florida joined the Southern Conference.
1930: The Swamp Becomes Home Field
The University of Florida Gators football team began playing home games in Steve Spurrier-Florida Field at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in 1930, known as "The Swamp."
1932: University of Florida joins the Southeastern Conference
The University of Florida became one of the thirteen charter members of the Southeastern Conference in 1932.
1933: Southeastern Conference Founding Member
In 1933, the University of Florida became a founding member of the Southeastern Conference (SEC), one of the nation's premier intercollegiate sports conferences.
1933: Southeastern Conference begins play
The Southeastern Conference began play in the fall of 1933.
1940: John Joca's NCAA Championship Win
John Joca, a celebrated "Gator Great," brought honor to the Florida Gators by winning the NCAA national boxing championship in the 135-pound weight class in 1940.
1943: Boxing Program Discontinued
Due to the outbreak of World War II, the Florida Gators boxing program was put on hold in 1943 and unfortunately never resumed.
1955: First SEC Championship for Men's Golf
The University of Florida's men's golf team achieved a significant milestone in 1955 by winning their first-ever Southeastern Conference (SEC) championship, marking the beginning of their dominance in the conference.
1966: Bob Murphy: Individual NCAA Champion
In 1966, Bob Murphy from the University of Florida showcased exceptional skill and determination to become the individual NCAA champion in golf, etching his name in the university's athletic history.
1968: Men's Golf Team Wins NCAA Championship
In 1968, the University of Florida men's golf team emerged victorious, capturing the NCAA Championship title.
1970: Men's Wrestling Becomes an SEC Sport
The Florida Gators men's wrestling program gained recognition and competition in 1970 when it became an officially sponsored sport by the SEC.
March 1972: Women's Basketball Approved as Varsity Sport
In March 1972, the University of Florida approved women's basketball as a new varsity sport.
1973: SEC All-Sports Trophy Established as the Bernie Moore Trophy
The SEC All-Sports Trophy began in 1973 as the Bernie Moore Trophy and tabulated the league's best men's sports program.
1973: Men's Golf Team Claims Second NCAA Championship
The University of Florida men's golf team secured their second NCAA Championship title in 1973, showcasing their prowess in the sport.
1973: Women's Basketball Begins as Club Team
The University of Florida women's basketball team began play in 1973 as a club team.
1975: SEC Championship Win
The Florida Gators men's wrestling team celebrated a major victory in 1975 by winning the SEC championship tournament, showcasing their dominance in the conference.
1975: Debut of Varsity Women's Basketball Program
The University of Florida Lady Gators basketball team made their debut as a varsity program in 1975 under head coach Dr. Paula Welch.
1976: Lady Gators Win "State Championship"
The University of Florida Lady Gators basketball team made headlines in 1976 by winning the "state championship," defeating the other three women's college teams in Florida at the time.
1979: NCAA Championship Sponsorships
In 1979, the NCAA sponsored all of the Florida Gators national championships except for women's swimming and diving, which was sponsored by the AIAW.
1979: Men's Wrestling Program Discontinued
The Florida Gators men's wrestling program, despite its success in the SEC, was unfortunately discontinued in 1979 due to budget constraints and Title IX compliance issues.
1979: Wrestling Program Discontinuation
In 1979, the University of Florida discontinued its varsity wrestling program.
1981: The Gator Chomp is Born
The now-famous "Gator Chomp," a gesture symbolizing an alligator's mouth, originated with the UF band in 1981. Often accompanied by the Jaws theme at football and basketball games, it has become an enduring symbol of fan support.
1982: NCAA Championship Sponsorships
In 1982, the NCAA sponsored all of the Florida Gators national championships except for women's gymnastics, which was sponsored by the AIAW.
1982: Gymnastics Team Wins AIAW National Championship and NCAA Takes Over Sponsorship
The University of Florida gymnastics team achieved a historic victory in 1982 by winning the AIAW national championship. This marked a turning point as the NCAA assumed sponsorship of the national gymnastics championships that same year.
1983: SEC Begins Recognizing Women's Sports Program
In 1983, the SEC also began recognizing the best women's sports program in the conference, as well as the best overall SEC sports program.
1983: University of Florida ranked among the nation's top ten NCAA Division I athletic programs
The University of Florida has been ranked among the nation's top ten NCAA Division I athletic programs every year since 1983–84, an overall ranking that includes both men's and women's sports.
1984: The Beginning of Women's Volleyball
The Florida Gators women's volleyball program officially began in 1984 under coach Marilyn McReavy, marking the start of their journey in the sport.
1984: SEC Begins Awarding All-Sports Trophy
The SEC began awarding an All-Sports Trophy to the best overall sports program in the conference in 1984.
1984: Alberta Joins Albert: The Gator Duo is Born
In 1984, Alberta was introduced as the female counterpart to Albert, the costumed alligator mascot of the Florida Gators. This made them the only male-and-female mascot pair in the SEC.
1984: Dara Torres' Olympic Debut
Dara Torres, a former Gator, began her Olympic journey at the 1984 Olympic Games, marking the start of her illustrious swimming career.
1985: Gators Basketball's NIT Appearance
In 1985, the Florida Gators men's basketball team received an invitation to the National Invitation Tournament (NIT), marking a significant achievement for the program.
1985: Women's Golf Team Wins First NCAA Championship
The University of Florida women's golf team etched their names in history by capturing their first-ever NCAA Championship title in 1985, a testament to their exceptional talent and hard work.
1985: Men's Golf Team Wins Eighth SEC Championship
The University of Florida's men's golf team captured their eighth Southeastern Conference (SEC) championship in 1985, further solidifying their status as a dominant force in the conference.
1986: Women's Golf Team Secures Second NCAA Championship Title
In a display of dominance, the University of Florida women's golf team secured their second consecutive NCAA Championship title in 1986, cementing their place as one of the top programs in the nation.
1986: Gators Basketball Returns to NIT
The Florida Gators men's basketball team earned another invitation to the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) in 1986, demonstrating their growing competitiveness.
1987: Gators Basketball's First NCAA Tournament Appearance
In 1987, the Florida Gators men's basketball team made their historic first appearance in the NCAA basketball tournament, led by guard Vernon Maxwell, and advanced to the Sweet Sixteen.
1988: Torres' Second Olympic Appearance
Dara Torres competed in her second Olympic Games in 1988, further solidifying her presence in the world of swimming.
1988: Gators Basketball Returns to NCAA Tournament
The Florida Gators men's basketball team continued their success in 1988 by receiving another invitation to the NCAA tournament.
1989: Gators Basketball's NCAA Tournament Appearance and Coaching Change
In 1989, the Florida Gators men's basketball team participated in the NCAA tournament, but head coach Norm Sloan was compelled to resign at the beginning of the 1989-90 season due to NCAA violations.
1989: Ninth SEC Championship for Men's Golf
The University of Florida's men's golf team extended their winning streak in 1989, capturing their ninth Southeastern Conference (SEC) championship and demonstrating their continued excellence in the sport.
1990: Steve Spurrier's Return as Head Coach
Steve Spurrier, a Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback, returned to his alma mater, the University of Florida, in 1990 as head coach.
1990: Florida Begins Record Streak of SEC All-Sports Trophy Wins
Florida won fourteen straight SEC All-Sports trophies from 1990–91 through 2004–05.
1991: Carol Ross Begins Coaching Tenure
Carol Ross began her twelve-season run as the University of Florida's women's basketball coach in 1991.
1991: Gators' First Official Conference Title
In 1991, the University of Florida Gators football team earned their first official conference title, marking a significant achievement in the program's history. This victory came a year before the SEC instituted a championship game.
1991: Back-to-Back Championships
The Florida Gators men's basketball team became the first team since Duke in 1991-92 to win back-to-back NCAA men's basketball championships.
1991: Gators Basketball's NIT Success
The Florida Gators men's basketball team, coached by Lon Kruger, achieved a notable accomplishment by reaching the final four of the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) during the 1991-92 season.
1991: Men's Golf Team Garners Tenth SEC Championship Title
The University of Florida's men's golf team continued their reign of dominance in 1991, securing their impressive tenth Southeastern Conference (SEC) championship title.
1991: Mary Wise Takes Charge
The arrival of coach Mary Wise in 1991 marked a turning point for the Florida Gators women's volleyball program, as she laid the foundation for their future success.
1992: Torres' Third Olympic Games
In 1992, Dara Torres participated in her third Olympic Games, demonstrating her continued dedication to the sport.
1992: SEC Institutes Championship Game
In 1992, the Southeastern Conference (SEC) introduced a championship game to determine the conference's champion in football.
1992: Women's Track and Field NCAA Indoor Champions
The Florida Gators women's track and field team showcased their talent and determination in 1992, capturing the NCAA indoor championship.
1992: First Final Four Appearance
The Florida Gators women's volleyball team achieved a significant milestone in 1992, reaching the NCAA Final Four for the first time in their history.
1993: NACDA recognizes the University of Florida as ranking among the top seven Division I programs
The National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) has recognized the University of Florida as ranking among the top seven Division I programs in its NACDA Directors' Cup standings every year since the NACDA and USA Today began awarding the cup in 1993–94.
1993: Men's Golf Team Clinches Third NCAA Championship
The University of Florida men's golf team further solidified their dominance in 1993 by winning their third NCAA Championship, solidifying their position as a top program in the country.
1993: Gators Basketball's Historic Final Four Run
During the 1993-94 season, the Florida Gators men's basketball team, led by Andrew DeClercq and Dametri Hill, made history by advancing to their first-ever NCAA tournament Final Four.
1993: Back-to-Back Final Four Appearances
The Florida Gators women's volleyball team maintained their exceptional performance in 1993, making their second consecutive appearance in the NCAA Final Four.
1993: Mark Merklein's NCAA Singles Championship
Mark Merklein's victory in the NCAA singles championship in 1993 further solidified the Florida Gators men's tennis team's reputation for producing top-tier athletes.
1993: Florida Gators recognized as one of the ten best overall Division I athletic programs
Every year since 1993, the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) has recognized the Gators athletic program as one of the ten best overall Division I athletic programs.
1994: Andy Lopez Hired as Baseball Coach
In 1994, Andy Lopez was hired as the head coach of the Florida Gators baseball program.
1994: New York Times Regional Newspaper Group takes over awarding SEC trophies
In 1994, the New York Times Regional Newspaper Group assumed responsibility for awarding the trophies.
1994: NCAA Doubles Championship Win
The dynamic duo of Mark Merklein and David Blair brought home the NCAA doubles championship to the Florida Gators in 1994, showcasing their exceptional teamwork and skill on the court.
1996: First National Championship Title
The University of Florida Gators won their first national championship title in 1996.
1996: NCAA Final Four Appearance
The Florida Gators women's volleyball team's dominance continued in 1996, as they secured a spot in the NCAA Final Four.
1996: National Championship and Sugar Bowl Victory
In 1996, the University of Florida Gators, coached by Steve Spurrier and led by another Gator Heisman-winner, Danny Wuerffel, finished with a 12–1 record and won the national championship in the Sugar Bowl, beating rival Florida State 52–20. This win was controversial among FSU fans, who believed they should not have had to play Florida again after winning the regular season matchup 24-21.
1996: Successful Season for Gators Baseball
The Florida Gators baseball team, coached by Andy Lopez, had a successful season in 1996, achieving 50 wins and earning a spot in the College World Series.
1996: NCAA Championship Sponsorships
In 1996, the NCAA sponsored all of the Florida Gators national championships except for football, which was sponsored by the Bowl Alliance.
1996: Billy Donovan Takes Over as Head Coach
In 1996, Billy Donovan was hired as the head coach of the Florida Gators men's basketball program, succeeding Lon Kruger.
1997: Another Final Four Appearance
The Florida Gators women's volleyball team continued their winning ways in 1997, making their fourth appearance in the NCAA Final Four.
1998: Reaching the Final Four
The Florida Gators women's volleyball team showcased their实力in 1998, reaching the NCAA Final Four and solidifying their position as a volleyball powerhouse.
1998: Gymnastics Team Finishes Second in NCAA Championship
The University of Florida gymnastics team narrowly missed out on the top spot in 1998, finishing as the runner-up in the NCAA Championship, demonstrating their competitiveness at the highest level.
1999: Jeff Morrison's NCAA Singles Championship
Jeff Morrison etched his name in Florida Gators history by winning the NCAA singles championship in 1999, adding to the team's legacy of producing exceptional tennis players.
1999: Gators Basketball's Consistent NCAA Tournament Appearances
Starting in 1999, the Florida Gators men's basketball program, led by coach Billy Donovan, achieved a remarkable streak of NCAA tournament appearances that lasted for eight consecutive years, setting a new team record for consistency.
1999: Fourteenth SEC Championship for Men's Golf
The University of Florida's men's golf team showcased their consistent excellence by clinching their fourteenth Southeastern Conference (SEC) championship in 1999.
2000: Gators Basketball's National Championship Run
The Florida Gators men's basketball team, under the guidance of coach Billy Donovan, made an impressive run to the NCAA tournament final in 2000 but ultimately lost to the Michigan State Spartans.
2000: Torres' Fourth Olympic Appearance
Dara Torres returned to the Olympic stage for the fourth time in 2000, showcasing her enduring talent and commitment.
2000: Coaching Change for Gators Baseball
By 2000, the Florida Gators baseball program experienced a period of stagnation, leading to the replacement of head coach Andy Lopez.
2001: Pat McMahon Becomes Head Coach
In 2001, Pat McMahon became the head coach of the Florida Gators baseball team after previously coaching the Mississippi State Bulldogs.
2001: Men's Golf Team Achieves Fourth NCAA Championship Win
The University of Florida's men's golf team achieved a remarkable feat in 2001 by winning their fourth NCAA Championship, further cementing their legacy as one of the most successful programs in the nation.
2002: Carolyn Peck's Coaching Tenure Begins
Carolyn Peck, a former WNBA coach who won a national title with Purdue, began her coaching career with the University of Florida's women's basketball team in 2002.
2002: NCAA Tournament Appearance
The Florida Gators women's volleyball team extended their impressive streak of NCAA tournament appearances in 2002, marking their consistent presence among the nation's top teams.
2003: Carol Ross Departs for Ole Miss
Carol Ross, who compiled more wins than any other women's basketball coach in University of Florida history during her tenure from 1991 to 2003, left to accept the head coaching job at Ole Miss, her alma mater.
2003: Rhonda Faehn's Coaching Tenure Begins
Rhonda Faehn began her coaching career with the University of Florida's gymnastics team in 2003.
2003: Advancing to the NCAA National Championship Final
The Florida Gators women's volleyball team's journey in 2003 led them to the NCAA national championship final, where they faced tough competition from the USC Trojans and finished as runners-up.
2003: Men's Golf Team Claims Fifteenth SEC Championship Title
The University of Florida's men's golf team secured their fifteenth Southeastern Conference (SEC) championship title in 2003, further solidifying their position as one of the most dominant programs in the conference's history.
December 2004: Urban Meyer Becomes Head Coach
Urban Meyer's successful tenure as the University of Florida's head football coach began in December 2004.
2004: End of Florida's Record Streak of SEC All-Sports Trophy Wins
Florida won fourteen straight SEC All-Sports trophies from 1990–91 through 2004–05.
2005: Honoring a Legend
In recognition of his unwavering dedication and impact on the Florida Gators community, George Edmondson Jr. ("Mr. Two Bits") was named an honorary alumnus in 2005.
2005: Gators Basketball's Historic Season Start
The 2005-06 season marked a historic start for the Florida Gators men's basketball team, as they achieved the best start in team history with a 17-0 record.
2005: Georgia Wins SEC All-Sports Trophy
SEC rival Georgia won the overall 2005–06 All-Sports Trophy to snap Florida's record streak at fourteen straight (1990–91 through 2004–05).
2005: Urban Meyer's Coaching Success Begins
From 2005 to 2010, Urban Meyer's University of Florida football teams experienced great success.
2005: Gators Basketball Wins First SEC Tournament
In 2005, the Florida Gators men's basketball team celebrated a historic victory by winning their first-ever SEC men's basketball tournament, defeating the Kentucky Wildcats in the championship game.
2005: Gators Baseball's Historic Season
In 2005, the Florida Gators baseball team had their most successful season ever, claiming the SEC title and securing their fifth appearance in the College World Series, where they finished as runners-up to the Texas Longhorns.
2005: Post-World Series Struggles
After their successful 2005 College World Series run, the Florida Gators baseball team, despite starting the 2006 season ranked first, faced challenges and finished with a losing record, failing to qualify for the NCAA Regionals.
April 3, 2006: Gators Basketball Wins First National Championship
On April 3, 2006, the Florida Gators men's basketball team achieved the pinnacle of success by winning their first-ever NCAA men's national basketball championship, defeating the UCLA Bruins with a decisive 73-57 score in the championship game.
2006: Carolyn Peck Fired Mid-Season
Carolyn Peck was fired midway through the 2006 season after the University of Florida women's basketball team endured the worst losing streak of any Gator sport; however, she was allowed to finish out the season.
2006: Florida becomes one of only two Division I schools to hold both major men's championships at the same time
Florida is one of only two Division I schools to hold both major men's championships (football and men's basketball) at the same time (as the 2006 BCS football champions and the 2006 and 2007 NCAA men's basketball champions), and was the first to do so.
2006: Florida Reclaims the SEC All-Sports Trophy
Florida reclaimed the SEC All-Sports Trophy for the 2006–07 school year.
2006: Gators Baseball's Disappointing Season
In 2006, the Florida Gators baseball team, despite starting the season ranked first, struggled and finished with a 28-28 record, missing the NCAA Regionals.
2006: NCAA Championship Sponsorships
In 2006, the NCAA sponsored all of the Florida Gators national championships except for football, which was sponsored by the BCS.
2006: Gators Secure Second National Championship Victory
In 2006, the University of Florida Gators achieved a significant victory by securing their second national championship.
2006: Florida Gators men's basketball team wins NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament
The Florida Gators men's basketball team won the 2006 NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament.
2006: Second National Championship Title
The University of Florida Gators won their second national championship title in 2006.
2006: Gators Basketball Ranked No. 1
At the beginning of the 2006-07 season, the Florida Gators men's basketball team earned the top ranking in both major polls for the first time in program history.
January 8, 2007: Gators Win Second National Championship Under Urban Meyer
On January 8, 2007, the University of Florida Gators football team, under the leadership of head coach Urban Meyer, won their second national championship, defeating the number one-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes 41–14.
April 2, 2007: Gators Basketball Wins Second Consecutive National Championship
On April 2, 2007, the Florida Gators men's basketball team etched their names in the history books by winning their second consecutive NCAA national men's basketball championship, defeating the Ohio State Buckeyes with an 84-75 victory.
April 13, 2007: Amanda Butler Named Head Coach
On April 13, 2007, Amanda Butler, a former Gator player and previous Charlotte coach, was named the new head coach of the University of Florida women's basketball team.
June 13, 2007: Kevin O'Sullivan Hired as Head Coach
On June 13, 2007, Kevin O'Sullivan, former associate head coach of the Clemson Tigers, was appointed as the new head baseball coach for the Florida Gators.
2007: Florida becomes one of only two Division I schools to hold both major men's championships at the same time
Florida is one of only two Division I schools to hold both major men's championships (football and men's basketball) at the same time (as the 2006 BCS football champions and the 2006 and 2007 NCAA men's basketball champions), and was the first to do so.
2007: Florida Gators men's basketball team wins NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament & football team wins BCS National Championship Game
The Florida Gators men's basketball team won the 2007 NCAA Division I men's basketball tournaments, and the Florida Gators football team won 2007 BCS National Championship Game in football, all in the span of 366 days.
2007: Gators Basketball's NCAA Tournament Streak Continues
In 2007, the Florida Gators men's basketball team extended their impressive streak of consecutive NCAA tournament appearances, maintaining their presence among the nation's top teams.
2007: McMahon Dismissed as Head Coach
Following their failure to qualify for the NCAA Regionals in 2007, Pat McMahon was dismissed from his position as the head coach of the Florida Gators baseball team.
2008: Third National Championship Title
The University of Florida Gators won their third national championship title in 2008.
2008: NCAA Championship Sponsorships
In 2008, the NCAA sponsored all of the Florida Gators national championships except for football, which was sponsored by the BCS.
2008: Landing a Top Recruiting Class
The Florida Gators women's volleyball program made waves in 2008 by securing the nation's top recruiting class, featuring Gatorade National Player of the Year Kelly Murphy, signaling a bright future for the team.
2008: Torres' Historic Olympic Achievement
At 41 years old, Dara Torres became the oldest swimmer to win an Olympic medal, securing a silver medal at the 2008 Olympic Games. This marked her fifth Olympic appearance, making her the only American swimmer to achieve this feat. Torres concluded her career with twelve Olympic medals, including four gold medals.
2008: Gators Baseball Shows Improvement
In 2008, the Florida Gators baseball team, under the leadership of new head coach Kevin O'Sullivan, demonstrated improvement and received an invitation to the NCAA Regional in Tallahassee.
2008: Tim Tebow Leads Gators to National Championship
In 2008, quarterback Tim Tebow led the Florida Gators to victory in the national championship game.
2008: Mr. Two Bits Takes a Bow
After decades of electrifying crowds, George Edmondson Jr., affectionately known as "Mr. Two Bits," retired his signature cheerleading routine in 2008, marking the end of an era for the Florida Gators.
2008: Lady Gators in NCAA Tournament
During the 2008–09 season, the University of Florida Lady Gators received an NCAA tournament bid and won a first-round game before being defeated by eventual tournament champion Connecticut in the second round.
January 8, 2009: Third National Championship for Gators with BCS Win
On January 8, 2009, the University of Florida Gators, led by Tim Tebow, won their third national championship by defeating the top-ranked Oklahoma Sooners 24–14 in the 2009 BCS National Championship Game.
January 2009: Florida Gators win the 2009 BCS National Championship Game
In January 2009, the Gators football team won the 2009 BCS National Championship Game with a 24–14 victory over the Oklahoma Sooners.
2009: Lady Gators Place Seventh in NCAA Championship
In 2009, the University of Florida Lady Gators cross country team placed seventh at the NCAA cross country championship.
2009: Gators Baseball's Strong Season
The Florida Gators baseball team had a strong season in 2009, winning the NCAA Regional in Gainesville and advancing to the Super Regional.
2009: Second Place Finish at NCAA Meets
The Florida Gators men's track and field team narrowly missed out on championship glory in 2009, finishing as runners-up in both the NCAA indoor and outdoor meets.
2010: Gators Basketball's Return to Championship Form
During the 2010-11 season, the Florida Gators men's basketball team regained their championship form, securing their fifth regular season SEC championship and making a strong run to the NCAA regional semifinals (Elite Eight).
2010: Lady Gators Win Back-to-Back SEC Championships
In 2010, the University of Florida Lady Gators cross country team won the SEC championship for the second consecutive year.
2010: Gators Baseball's Championship Run
The Florida Gators baseball team achieved significant success in 2010, winning their eleventh SEC championship and earning a berth in the College World Series.
2010: Florida Gators men's athletic program wins the Capital One Cup
The Florida Gators men's athletic program was the winner of the 2010–11 Capital One Cup.
2010: Florida Gators win NCAA championships
The Florida Gators men's indoor track and field championship in three consecutive seasons in 2010, 2011 and 2012, the NCAA women's swimming and diving team national championship in 2010.
2010: Beginning of a Championship Streak
The Florida Gators men's track and field team embarked on a remarkable championship run, starting with their first of three consecutive NCAA indoor titles in 2010.
2010: End of Urban Meyer's Coaching Era
Urban Meyer's time as the University of Florida's head coach, during which his teams achieved great success, ended in 2010.
2011: Florida Gators win NCAA championships
The Florida Gators men's indoor track and field championship in three consecutive seasons in 2010, 2011 and 2012, and the NCAA women's tennis championship in 2011, 2012 and 2017.
2011: Sixteenth SEC Championship for Men's Golf Team
The University of Florida's men's golf team continued their tradition of excellence in 2011 by winning their sixteenth Southeastern Conference (SEC) championship, showcasing their consistent competitiveness at the highest level of collegiate golf.
2011: Gators Basketball's Elite Eight Appearance
The Florida Gators men's basketball team reached the Elite Eight of the NCAA tournament in 2011, showcasing their resilience and competitiveness.
2011: Florida Gators men's athletic program wins the Capital One Cup
The Florida Gators men's athletic program was also the winner of the 2011–12 Capital One Cup.
2011: Gators Baseball's Championship Run
In 2011, the Florida Gators baseball team continued their winning streak, securing their twelfth SEC championship, making it to the College World Series for the second year in a row, and ultimately finishing as runners-up to South Carolina in the championship series.
2012: Olympic Legacy of University of Florida Alumni
By the end of the 2012 Summer Olympics, over 160 alumni of the University of Florida, representing over 35 countries, had participated in the Olympic Games, collectively securing fifty gold, twenty-nine silver, and thirty bronze medals.
2012: Gators Baseball Returns to College World Series
The Florida Gators baseball team made their return to the College World Series in 2012, marking another successful season for the program.
2012: Florida Gators win NCAA championships
The Florida Gators men's indoor track and field championship in three consecutive seasons in 2010, 2011 and 2012, the NCAA women's tennis championship in 2011, 2012 and 2017, and the NCAA men's outdoor track and field championship in 2012, 2013 and 2016.
2012: Historic Triple Crown for Men's Track and Field
The Florida Gators men's track and field team achieved a remarkable feat in 2012 by winning both the NCAA indoor and outdoor titles, securing a historic triple crown after three consecutive indoor titles.
2012: Gymnastics Team Finishes Second in NCAA Championship Again
The University of Florida gymnastics team once again showcased their exceptional talent and determination in 2012, finishing as the runner-up in the NCAA Championship, proving their consistent presence among the nation's elite programs.
2013: Florida Gators women's athletic program wins the Capital One Cup
The women's athletic program won the Capital One Cup in 2013–14.
2013: Gymnastics Team Wins First NCAA National Championship
The University of Florida gymnastics team achieved a historic milestone in 2013 by winning their first-ever NCAA national championship, marking a pinnacle of success for the program.
2013: Florida Gators win NCAA championships
The NCAA men's outdoor track and field championship in 2012, 2013 and 2016, and the NCAA women's gymnastics championship in 2013, 2014 and 2015.
2013: Gators Basketball's Dominant Season and Final Four Run
During the 2013-14 season, the Florida Gators men's basketball team established themselves as a dominant force in college basketball, achieving the No. 1 ranking in the nation, capturing the SEC championship with an impressive 36-game winning streak, setting a new school record with 30 consecutive wins, and culminating their season with a memorable run to the NCAA Final Four.
2013: Buddy Alexander Retires
Buddy Alexander, the long-time head coach for the University of Florida men's golf team, retired after the 2013–14 season.
June 2014: J.C. Deacon Hired as Men's Golf Coach
J.C. Deacon was hired as the head coach for the men's golf team at the University of Florida in June 2014.
2014: University Athletic Association, Inc. (UAA) operating budget
For the 2014–15 school year, the UAA had an operating budget of $103,310,001, projected revenues of $104,064,487, and made a $3.5 million contribution to the university's general fund.
2014: Gymnastics Team Wins Second Consecutive NCAA National Championship
In a display of exceptional skill and teamwork, the University of Florida gymnastics team secured their second consecutive NCAA national championship in 2014, solidifying their position as a dominant force in collegiate gymnastics.
2014: Florida Gators win NCAA championships
The NCAA women's gymnastics championship in 2013, 2014 and 2015, and the NCAA softball championships in 2014 and 2015.
2014: Gymnastics Team Wins NCAA Championship (Tied)
The University of Florida gymnastics team showcased their exceptional talent and determination in 2014 by tying for the NCAA national championship with Oklahoma, highlighting their ability to compete at the highest level and share the pinnacle of success.
2015: Gators Baseball Returns to College World Series
In 2015, the Florida Gators baseball team once again showcased their strength by returning to the College World Series.
2015: Rhonda Faehn's Coaching Tenure Ends
Rhonda Faehn ended her coaching career with the University of Florida's gymnastics team in 2015.
2015: Florida Gators win NCAA championships
The NCAA women's gymnastics championship in 2013, 2014 and 2015, and the NCAA softball championships in 2014 and 2015.
2015: Gymnastics Team Wins Third Consecutive NCAA National Championship
The University of Florida gymnastics team continued their reign of excellence in 2015, capturing their third consecutive NCAA national championship and etching their names in the record books as one of the most successful dynasties in the sport's history.
2016: Florida Gators win NCAA championships
The NCAA men's outdoor track and field championship in 2012, 2013 and 2016.
2016: Scott Stricklin becomes Florida's athletic director
Scott Stricklin became Florida's athletic director in 2016.
2016: Gators Baseball Returns to College World Series
The Florida Gators baseball team maintained their momentum in 2016, earning another trip to the College World Series, a testament to their consistent success.
2016: Amanda Butler Resigns
Amanda Butler resigned as the University of Florida women's basketball coach after the 2016–17 season.
June 2017: Gators Baseball Wins National Championship
In June 2017, the Florida Gators baseball team achieved a historic victory by winning their first-ever College World Series championship, defeating their SEC rivals, the LSU Tigers, in a two-game sweep during the best-of-three finals.
October 2017: Honoring Tom Petty
Following the death of Gainesville native and music icon Tom Petty in October 2017, the Florida Gators began playing his hit song "I Won't Back Down" alongside their traditional cheers, creating a poignant and unifying moment for fans.
2017: Florida Gators baseball team wins its first championship at the NCAA championship
The Florida Gators baseball team took home its first championship at the 2017 NCAA championship, defeating rival SEC foe the LSU Tigers in two games.
2017: Reaching the NCAA National Championship Final
The Florida Gators women's volleyball team, under the guidance of coach Mary Wise, made an impressive run to the NCAA national championship final in 2017, ultimately finishing as runners-up to the Nebraska Cornhuskers.
2018: Women's Lacrosse Conference Change
During the 2018-2019 school year, the Florida Gators women's lacrosse team joined the American Athletic Conference.
2018: Gators Baseball Returns to College World Series
The Florida Gators baseball team continued their impressive run in 2018 by returning to the College World Series.
2018: Texas A&M ends Florida's Streak of SEC All-Sports Trophy Wins
The Gators have held on to the overall all-sports trophies in every year until Texas A&M ended their streak in 2018–19.
2019: Women's Lacrosse Conference Change
In 2019, the Florida Gators women's lacrosse team joined the American Athletic Conference after previously competing in the American Lacrosse Conference and the Big East Conference.
2019: Florida Gators women's lacrosse team joins the American Athletic Conference
In 2019, the Florida Gators women's lacrosse team joined the American Athletic Conference because the SEC does not sponsor competition in the sport.
June 2020: Retiring "Gator Bait"
Responding to concerns over racial sensitivity and amid nationwide calls for social justice in June 2020, the University of Florida decided to retire the controversial "Gator Bait" cheer at its sporting events.
2021: New Home Field for Gators Baseball
Beginning in 2021, the Florida Gators baseball team moved their home games to Condron Ballpark at Alfred A. McKethan Field.
2021: First-Ever NCAA Team Championship Win
In a historic victory, the Florida Gators men's tennis program clinched their first-ever NCAA team championship in 2021, marking a significant milestone in their history.
2022: Tennessee sweeps SEC All-Sports Trophies
Tennessee became the second SEC sports program to earn the overall, men's, and women's all-sports trophies in a single year in the 2022–23 season.
2022: J.C. Deacon's Ninth Season
The 2022-2023 season marked J.C. Deacon's ninth season as the head coach of the University of Florida's men's golf team.
2022: Florida Gators' 39th consecutive year ranked among the nation's top ten best overall collegiate athletic programs
The 2022–23 academic year marked the Gators' 39th consecutive year ranked among the nation's top ten best overall collegiate athletic programs, and the twenty-second consecutive year ranked among the top seven Division I programs in the NACDA Directors' Cup standings.
2022: NCAA Team Championship and Singles Championship Wins
The Florida Gators men's tennis team continued its winning tradition in 2022, securing another Southeastern Conference team championship and boasting two NCAA singles champions, Ben Shelton and Sam Riffice.
2022: Double Victory for Women's Track and Field
The Florida Gators women's track and field team celebrated a momentous year in 2022, clinching both the NCAA indoor and their first-ever outdoor championships, demonstrating their dominance in the sport.
2022: Florida Gators win 261st Southeastern Conference championship
Through the end of the 2022–23 school year, the Florida Gators have won 261 Southeastern Conference (SEC) team championships, the most in conference history.
2023: Florida Wins 28th SEC All-Sports Trophy
As of 2023, Florida has won the SEC All-Sports Trophy 28 times.
2023: Gators Baseball Returns to College World Series
In 2023, the Florida Gators baseball team returned to the College World Series.
2023: Men's Golf Team Secures Fifth NCAA Championship Victory and Sixteenth SEC Championship
In 2023, the University of Florida's men's golf team achieved a historic victory, clinching their fifth NCAA Championship title and sixteenth SEC Championship, marking a triumphant season for the Gators.