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Stadium News
For Immediate Release Tampa Bay Sports Commission
Date: December 16, 2013
Media Contact: Michael Farrant
Contact Email: MFarrant@VisitTampaBay.com
Contact Phone: 813.342.4077
Media Alert
Tampa Bay Awarded 2017 College Football National Championship
Championship Game Set for Monday, January 9, 2017 at Raymond James Stadium
TAMPA, FL – The College Football Playoff Group announced earlier today that Tampa Bay has been awarded the 2017 College Football National Championship. Raymond James Stadium will serve as the host venue for the Championship, which will be played on Monday, January 9, 2017.
“This is a historic announcement for our community,” said Rob Higgins, Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission. “Our hats off to the College Football Playoff Management Committee and staff for allowing us this unique opportunity to host. We are committed to meeting and exceeding expectations.”
“The Tampa Bay area has a long history of hosting big sporting events. We are thrilled that our community will once again be showcased in the national spotlight and share in the excitement generated by the College Football National Championship Game,” said Buccaneers Co-Chairman Bryan Glazer.
Beginning with the 2014-15 season, college football will enter a new era when a post season playoff will begin. The format is simple: top four teams, two semifinals played in bowl games, and a national championship played in a different city each year. Each semifinal will be played during the New Year’s holiday with the national championship in prime time on a Monday night at least a week later.
“We’re honored to have the opportunity to host this prestigious event,” said Ken Hagan, Hillsborough County Commissioner. “We understand the responsibility that we have undertaken as a community and we will do everything in our power to make sure that the Playoff Committee leaves here knowing that they made the right decision.”
A selection committee will choose the four teams for the playoff based on their performance during the regular season, including strength of schedule, head-to-head results, championships won, and other factors. The teams will be seeded so that #1 will play #4 in one semifinal and #2 will meet #3 in the other, with the winners advancing to the national championship. The semifinals will rotate among six different bowls, extending the experience to more fans. In the years when the bowls are not hosting semifinals, the bowls will feature eight other teams in four compelling matchups. Arlington, TX and AT&T Stadium, awarded the College Football National Championship earlier this spring, will host the inaugural playoff championship in January 2015.
“Once again, we have proven we can do anything we set our minds to,” said Bob Buckhorn, Mayor of the City of Tampa. “Events like this catapult us onto the national stage and reinforce that this really is Tampa’s time.”
A total of eight cities bid on the College Football National Championship, including San Francisco, Jacksonville, Miami, Phoenix, San Antonio, Minneapolis, New Orleans and Tampa Bay. The 2016 College Football National Championship was awarded to Glendale, AZ.
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For Immediate ReleaseTampa Bay Sports Commission Media Contact: Michael Farrant | MFarrant@VisitTampaBay.com<mailto:MFarrant@VisitTampaBay.com> | 813.342.4077www.TampaBaySports.org<http://www.TampaBaySports.org> |@SportsTampaBay
Media Alert: Tampa Bay Nets Second Frozen Four
TAMPA, FL - On Wednesday, the Division I Men's Ice Hockey Committee announced that Tampa Bay has been awarded the 2016 NCAA Frozen Four. It marks the second time in the event's history that the Championship will be hosted in Tampa Bay (previously hosted in 2012). The Tampa Bay Sports Commission is partnering with the University of Wisconsin, who serves as the official host institution for the NCAA Men's Ice Hockey Championship. The Tampa Bay Times Forum will serve as the host venue for the semifinals and national championship game, which will be played on April 7 and 9, 2016.
"For Tampa Bay to be awarded a second NCAA Men's Frozen Four, after the event had previously never been to the south in its history, speaks volumes to our community's sincere affinity and reputation for creating a student-athlete experience that is second to none," said Rob Higgins, Tampa Bay Sports Commission's Executive Director. "We could not be more grateful to the NCAA staff, the Division I Men's Ice Hockey Committee and college hockey fans for fulfilling our dream of becoming a frequent home to this great event."
When discussing its partnership with the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, University of Wisconsin Director of Athletics, Barry Alvarez said, "We're thrilled to be serving as host of the Frozen Four. Our partners with the Tampa Bay Sports Commission do quality work and I know their staff and ours will put on a great show."
Tampa Bay set a first-time host attendance record with a crowd of 18,818 at the championship game. A total of 56,028 spectators enjoyed hockey over the three-game span, a number that also ranks sixth all time in the event's 65 year history. Today's announcement marks the quickest return to a host city since St. Paul, Minnesota in 1991 and 1994. It's also the first time a Women's Final Four (2015) and a Frozen Four (2016) will be hosted by the same city in consecutive years since 1996-97 (Cincinnati).
'We are pleased to welcome the NCAA and its student-athletes back to the Tampa Bay Times Forum for the 2016 Frozen Four," said Bill Wickett, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Communications. "Our goal in 2012 was to impact the student-athletes in a way they hadn't experienced in the championship before and we look forward to working with the Sports Commission and the University of Wisconsin in 2016 to create a new set of lasting memories for players and fans alike."
Other notable quotes:
"The 2012 Frozen Four was a historic event for this area and we're beyond thrilled to host it once again. Our sincerest thanks to the NCAA Division I Men's Ice Hockey Committee for entrusting us with one of the premier championships in all of college athletics." - Ken Hagan, Hillsborough County Commissioner
"One of our goals each season is to reach the Frozen Four, so it would be a unique experience for us to co-host at the Tampa Bay Times Forum and hopefully play in such a sunny locale. The last time we hosted the Frozen Four, we won it all in Milwaukee, so we look forward to having that chance once again." - Mike Eaves, Head Coach, University of Wisconsin
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 8, 2013
LSU, IOWA TO SQUARE-OFF IN OUTBACK BOWL
Tampa, FL— The LSU Tigers and Iowa Hawkeyes will square-off in the Outback Bowl on January 1st in Tampa, bowl officials announced today. The Tigers are 9-3 and ranked No. 14 in the AP and USA Today Polls while the Hawkeyes are 8-4. It will be only the second time these teams have played in 120 seasons of their football history, and the first time in the past twenty-five years LSU has played in the Outback Bowl.
“We are thrilled to extend an invitation to LSU and the University of Iowa to play in this year’s Outback Bowl,” said Outback Bowl Chairman Ken Hoverman. “We feel these two teams will continue our reputation of putting on an exciting show on New Year’s Day. We look forward to hosting the Tigers and Hawkeyes teams and their fans, and ensure them they will have a fabulous experience in the Tampa Bay area.”
“We are looking forward to playing in the Outback Bowl, one of the premier bowl games in college football each year,” said LSU Head Coach Les Miles. “The Outback Bowl has a rich history and it’s played in a great city in a tremendous venue and I know that our players and fans will be excited about the opportunity to play on New Year’s Day against a very successful Big Ten program like Iowa. I have great respect for Kirk Ferentz and the program that he’s built at Iowa. They have enjoyed a lot of success in the Big Ten for over an extended period of time and we are excited about the chance to play them.”
“We are excited about the opportunity to bring the LSU football program and our tremendous fan base to Tampa for the Outback Bowl,” adds LSU Vice-Chancellor and Director of Athletics Joe Alleva. “By winning nine games and being ranked No. 14 in the nation, Coach Miles and his team deserve the chance to be able to play in this prestigious New Year’s Day bowl. We are looking forward to bringing the great LSU fans to Tampa for a week to enjoy the Outback Bowl experience.”
“Our entire football program is excited for this opportunity to compete against LSU in the 2014 Outback Bowl,” noted Hawkeye Head Coach Kirk Ferentz. “This is one of the great bowl events of the postseason, we are extremely pleased to travel to Tampa to represent the University of Iowa and the Big Ten Conference.”
“We are honored and proud to accept the invitation to participate in the 2014 Outback Bowl against LSU,” added Iowa Athletic Director Gary Barta. “Kirk, his staff, and his team have worked extremely hard since the end of last season, and have been playing great football all year…especially down the stretch. Our team looks forward to returning to the Tampa area, and I know Hawkeye fans are excited to follow our team and get back to the Outback Bowl.”
This will be only the second time LSU has played in this bowl, their last appearance being in the 1989 game when it was called the Hall of Fame Bowl. Iowa last played in the Outback Bowl in 2008 and will be enjoying their fourth appearance in Tampa.
The Outback Bowl will be played on January 1st at 1:00 PM at Raymond James Stadium. Tickets are on sale through Ticketmaster at (813) 287-8844 or 1-800-745-3000 and can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets can also be purchased at any Ticketmaster outlet in the state of Florida.
For information on limited priority seating through an Outback Bowl Membership package call the Outback Bowl office directly at (813) 874-BOWL or go to the bowl web site at www.outbackbowl.com for details.
-OBB-
one-direction-announce-2014-north-american-stadium-tour-20
NEW ALBUM MIDNIGHT MEMORIES HITS #1 IN 97 COUNTRIES
TICKETS ON SALE DECEMBER 7 AT LIVENATION.COM
NEW YORK (NOVEMBER 26, 2013) – Global superstars One Direction announced today the highly anticipated dates for the North America leg of their worldwide WHERE WE ARE 2014 stadium tour with a special performance live from Central Park on ABC’s Good Morning America. It’s been a phenomenal week for One Direction as they took home two awards at the 2013 American Music Awards including Best Pop/Rock Album and Best Pop/Rock Group and released their third studio album MIDNIGHT MEMORIES which immediately shot to #1 in 97 countries around the world. The 21-city tour, promoted by Live Nation and presented by Nabisco, the makers of OREO, RITZ and HONEY MAID, kicks off on August 1,2014 in Toronto, ON at Rogers Centre and includes stops in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Boston, Dallas and Miami, amongst others. Additional dates to be announced. Tickets go on sale on December 7 at www.livenation.com.
"We simply can't wait to be back in North America touring and to see our fans," says Niall Horan. "It's going to be absolutely huge!"
Citi® is the official credit card of the WHERE WE ARE 2014 North American tour. Citi® cardmembers will have access to pre-sale tickets beginning Tuesday, November 26 through Citi's Private Pass® Program. For complete pre-sale details visit www.citiprivatepass.com. Fans will have additional opportunities to purchase tickets early starting December 3 by signing up for a Facebook RSVP at (http://bit.ly/1DRSVP). Tickets go on sale Saturday, December 7. Additional details, including information on other pre-sales opportunities for fans, are available at www.livenation.com and through local venue websites.
Fans can catch a sneak peek of the boys as they gear up to perform on NBC’s Saturday Night Live on December 7, their second appearance on the show. You can also catch the boys performing at the iHeartRadio MIDNIGHT MEMORIES album release party airing on the CW on December 9, with a special encore airing on Christmas Day at 9 PM ET.
One Direction – Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, Liam Payne, Harry Styles and Louis Tomlinson – formed in 2010 and have since amassed a loyal fan base and fame all across the globe. It has been an incredible year for the boys, as they took home a BRIT Award, three Billboard Music Awards, six TEEN CHOICE Awards, three MTV EMAs, two 2013 American Music Awards and a moonman for Best Song Of The Summer at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards. With two albums to date, UP ALL NIGHT and TAKE ME HOME, the boys have sold more than 35 million records worldwide and have achieved a total of 67 #1's (including albums). One Direction made their movie debut in 2013 with their global No. 1 box office hit 3D concert movie, “One Direction: This Is Us.” Their new album, MIDNIGHT MEMORIES, which includes the worldwide smash hit, “Best Song Ever” and the current hit single, “Story Of My Life,” is available now: http://smarturl.it/MidnightMemoriesiT.
WHERE WE ARE 2014 NORTH AMERICAN TOUR DATES
All dates and venues below subject to change.
Additional dates to be announced.
August 1
Toronto, ON
Rogers Centre
August 4
East Rutherford, NJ
MetLife Stadium
August 7
Foxboro, MA
Gillette Stadium
August 11
Washington, DC
Nationals Park
August 13
Philadelphia, PA
Lincoln Financial Field
August 16
Detroit, MI
Ford Field
August 19
Nashville, TN
LP Field
August 22
Houston, TX
Reliant Stadium
August 24
Dallas, TX
AT&T Stadium
August 27
St Louis, MO
Edward Jones Dome
August 29
Chicago, IL
Soldier Field
September 12
Pasadena, CA
Rose Bowl
September 16
Phoenix , AZ
University of Phoenix Stadium
September 19
El Paso, TX
Sun Bowl Stadium
September 21
San Antonio, TX
Alamodome
September 23
Tulsa, OK
BOK Center
September 25
New Orleans, LA
Mercedes-Benz Superdome
September 27
Charlotte, NC
PNC Music Pavilion
October 01
Atlanta, GA
Georgia Dome
October 03
Tampa FL
Raymond James Stadium
October 05
Miami, FL
Sun Life Stadium
MIDNIGHT MEMORIES AVAILABLE NOW: http://smarturl.it/MidnightMemoriesiT
For more info visit
http://www.onedirectionmusic.com
http://www.columbiarecords.com
ONE DIRECTION CONTACTS:
Mike Navarra / Columbia Records
Mike.Navarra@sonymusic.com / 212 833 7545
Benny Tarantini / Columbia Records
Benny.Tarantini@sonymusic.com / 212 833 5858
LIVE NATION CONTACT:
Victor Trevino / victortrevino@livenation.com
About Live Nation Entertainment
Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE: LYV) is the world’s leading live entertainment company comprised of four market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, Artist Nation Management and Live Nation Media/Sponsorship. For additional information, visit www.livenation.com/investors.
About COLUMBIA RECORDS
One of the most respected and successful record labels in the world, Columbia Records is home to established superstars and exciting new talent. Columbia Records is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sony Music Entertainment. Sony Music Entertainment is a global recorded music company with a roster of current artists that includes a broad array of both local artists and international superstars. The company boasts a vast catalog that comprises some of the most important recordings in history. Sony Music Entertainment is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America.
About Sony Music Entertainment
Sony Music Entertainment is a global recorded music company with a current roster that includes a broad array of both local artists and international superstars. The company boasts a vast catalog that comprises some of the most important recordings in history. It is home to premier record labels representing music from every genre, including Arista Nashville, Beach Street Records, Bystorm Entertainment, Columbia Nashville, Columbia Records, Day 1, Epic Records, Essential Records, Flicker Records, Kemosabe Records, Legacy Recordings, MASTERWORKS, Polo Grounds, RCA Inspiration, RCA Nashville, RCA Records, Reunion Records, Roc Nation, Sony Classical, Sony Music Latin, Star Time International, Syco Music and Volcano. Sony Music Entertainment is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America.
About SYCO ENTERTAINMENT
Syco Entertainment is a joint venture between Simon Cowell and Sony Music and is one of the world¹s leading global music, film and television production companies responsible for some of the world¹s most successful global TV and music franchises. Syco Entertainment is also the world¹s most successful producer of international talent with Syco Music being the record label home for such diverse international recording artists as Labrinth, One Direction, Leona Lewis, Susan Boyle, Little Mix, IL Divo, Jonathan and Charlotte, Tate Stevens, Emblem3, Fifth Harmony, James Arthur, Ella Henderson and the Loveable Rogues. Syco¹s television assets include the global franchises The X Factor and Got Talent. The X Factor was created by Syco Television and is produced by Syco Television and Fremantle Media. Local versions of The X Factor are produced in more than 42 territories and the US version of The X Factor airs in over 191 countries. In 2012 Got Talent became the world¹s biggest selling TV format and is now commissioned in 56 countries as a local format. In 2013 Syco continues to capitalize on the ongoing success of its established global hit TV formats and a number of new projects including two feature films - One Direction¹s 3D movie This Is Us with Sony Pictures and One Chance¹, a film based on the success story of Britain¹s Got Talent¹s first winner, Paul Potts, in association with the Weinstein Company.
About Mondelēz International
Mondelēz International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MDLZ) is a global snacking powerhouse, with 2012 revenue of $35 billion. Creating delicious moments of joy in 165 countries, Mondelēz International is a world leader in chocolate, biscuits, gum, candy, coffee and powdered beverages, with billion-dollar brands such as Cadbury, Cadbury Dairy Milk and Milk chocolate, Jacobs coffee, LU, Nabisco and Oreo biscuits, Tang powdered beverages and Trident gum. Mondelēz International is a proud member of the Standard and Poor’s 500, NASDAQ 100 and Dow Jones Sustainability Index.
Visit www.mondelezinternational.com and www.facebook.com/mondelezinternational.
NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: LIZZ HARMON AT 813-288-6909
Two Monster Jam® Shows Coming to Tampa
TAMPA, Fla. – November 19, 2013 – Feld Motor Sports will host two Monster Jam® events at Raymond James Stadium in 2014: Saturday,January 18 and Saturday, February 1, both at 7 p.m. Each event will feature a different show with variances to the Monster Jam race track and competing monster trucks.
Tickets for both shows start at $15, and they are on sale now at all Ticketmaster outlets, charge by phone at 800-745-3000, or online atwww.ticketmaster.com. Tickets will also be available at the Raymond James Stadium Box Office beginning December 30.
Fans also have the unique opportunity to purchase a 2-show ticket, sit in the same seat for both shows, and save 20%.
Half Price Club Tickets (limited time 4-day Holiday offer)
From Black Friday through Cyber Monday, fans ordering tickets to the January 18 Monster Jam can sit in the luxurious Raymond James Stadium Club Seats for half price. Regular $35, guests can purchase tickets for $17.50 for a limited time. Offer valid only on the January 18, 2014 show, and is redeemable only online at Ticketmaster.com using the special Promo Code: “HOLIDAY”. Offer begins at 11:59 PM 11/28/13 and offer expires at 11:59 PM 12/2/13.
Before both Monster Jam shows, there will be a “Party in the Pits” from 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. for fans to get a close-up view of the trucks and meet the drivers. Pit Passes may be purchased for an additional $10 at the same time tickets are purchased. Free Pit Passes will be available at participating Southern Ford Dealers December 30 through February 1, while supplies last. Both a January 18 or February 1 event ticket, along with Pit Pass, are required for entry into the pit parties.
Approximately 12 feet tall and about 12 feet wide, monster trucks are custom-designed machines that sit atop 66-inch-tall tires and weigh a minimum of 10,000 pounds. Built for short, high-powered bursts of speed, monster trucks generate 1,500 to 2,000 horsepower and are capable of speeds of up to 100 miles per hour. Monster trucks can fly up to 125 to 130 feet (a distance greater than 14 cars side by side) and up to 35 feet in the air.
The official title of both events is Metro PCS, 1-800-ASK-GARY, Your Southern Ford Dealers and Dairy Queen present Monster Jam®.
For more information, log on to www.monsterjam.com.
Special Needs Request Form
This form must be filled out and submitted electronically during regular business hours at least 24 hours prior to the game or event requested. Thank you, Tampa Sports Authority and Raymond James Stadium.
New Policy to be Implemented at All Stadium Events
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tampa Sports Authority and University of South Florida announced today that the National Football League’s new bag policy will be in effect for all Raymond James Stadium events beginning with the Buccaneers’ home preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday, Aug. 8. The new bag policy, which has been established in order to provide fans with a safer environment and expedited entry on game day, places limits on the size and type of bags which may be brought into Raymond James Stadium. Additionally, the Tampa Sports Authority will enforce the policy for all events taking place at the stadium going forward.
“Our team takes the safety of our fans very seriously,” said Buccaneers Chief Operating Officer Brian Ford. “Every year we work diligently with the Tampa Sports Authority to put the best possible security measures in place and the new bag policy, which will now be a part of every event at Raymond James Stadium, is a crucial next step in this process. In an effort to make this a seamless process for our Season Pass Members, we have already begun mailing the NFL approved bags to ensure they arrive prior to next Thursday’s preseason home opener.”
The bag policy was unanimously recommended in May by the NFL Committee on Stadium Security and will be put into place at all NFL stadiums beginning with preseason games this season. The Tampa Sports Authority will adopt the policy for all events at the stadium which includes USF Bulls football games as well as the annual Outback Bowl and the Monster Jam Series.
“The Tampa Sports Authority has consistently provided a safe and secure environment for our fans at Raymond James Stadium,” said Eric Hart, President/CEO of the Tampa Sports Authority, operators of Raymond James Stadium. “This new bag policy being implemented in cooperation with the Bucs, USF and all our other partners, will continue to put public safety as our top priority.”
Under the new policy, fans will be allowed to carry in no more than one approved clear bag (not to exceed 12”x6”x12”) and up to one small clutch-style bag (not to exceed 4.5”x6.5”). The policy only restricts the type and size of containers used to carry items, but the list of approved items has not changed. Fans may still carry usual items such as keys, wallets, makeup, phones, etc., in pockets or jackets in addition to the approved containers that are detailed below. Patrons with medically necessary items will be screened at specifically designated gate locations.
“The safety of all Bulls’ fans is our number one priority, and as a result, we’ve been working closely with the Buccaneers and the Tampa Sports Authority on this new bag policy,” said USF Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Doug Woolard. “It’s important that we continue to analyze security measures that will allow all fans to have the best possible gameday experience. We appreciate your support and understanding of these new guidelines.”
During stadium events, there will be a secondary perimeter around the stadium where security personnel will check for prohibited items or bags in order to correct situations immediately. This will establish a protected buffer area for fans in plaza-level areas and at the queues for stadium entry.
Fans entering the stadium may carry the following permissible style and size bag:
· Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12.”
- One-gallon (or smaller) clear plastic bag.
- Small clutch bags, approximately the size of a hand (no larger than 4.5”x6.5”), with or without a handle or strap, may be carried into the stadium along with one of the clear bag options.
- An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at specific gates designated for this purpose. Fans should contact Maureen Myers at the Tampa Sports Authority office in advance by calling 813-350-6508 or emailing mmyers@tampasportsuthority.com to make special medical needs arrangements.
Prohibited items include, but are not limited to: purses larger than a clutch bag, binocular cases, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, cinch bags, luggage of any kind, seat cushions, computer bags and camera bags or any bag larger than the permissible size. Fans are encouraged to visit www.nfl.com/allclear for all the details regarding the new bag policy as well as answers to frequently asked questions.
Earlier this year, Sunset Events announced the return of Tampa’s premier electronic music event, the Sunset Music Festival. Returning to Raymond James Stadium this Memorial Day Weekend for a second year, join Disco Donnie Presents and Sunset Events on Saturday, May 25, 2013 for another year of dancing and fun as we celebrate Ra-the Egyptian sun god. Grab your tickets and get ready to dance underneath the sun and stars to the sounds of one of the world’s favorite DJ’s David Guetta, cake-master Steve Aoki, and the always innovative Knife Party.
Sunset Music Festival 2013 Lineup!
- DAVID GUETTA
- STEVE AOKI – KNIFE PARTY
- (in alphabetical order)
- Alvin Risk
- Carnage
- Crizzly
- Danny Avila
- Dillon Francis
- Flosstradamus
- Herobust
- Krewella
- Le Castle Vania
- Morgan Page
- Nerd Rage
- Pegboard Nerds
- Popeska
General Admission and VIP tickets are already on sale, buy yours today and lock in the best price right now!
TAMPA – The University of South Florida announced its complete 2013 football schedule on Wednesday. The 12-game slate is highlighted by an eight-game conference schedule and non-conference match-ups with Miami (Fla.) and Michigan State. USF’s two other non-conference games versus McNeese State and FAU will kickoff at 7 p.m. at Raymond James Stadium, while all other kickoff times will be determined by television at a later date. USF will open the year on Saturday, Aug. 31, when it welcomes McNeese State to Raymond James Stadium. The Bulls will continue non-conference action on Saturday, Sept. 7, when they’ll make their first trip to East Lansing, Mich. to face the Michigan State Spartans as a part of a home-and-home series.
The Bulls will continue non-conference play on Saturday, Sept. 14, when they host FAU. After enjoying a bye week (Sept. 21), USF will host in-state foe Miami on Saturday, Sept. 28.
USF will begin conference play on Saturday, Oct. 5, when they host Cincinnati at Ray-Jay, and will then travel to UConn on Saturday, Oct. 12. After another open date (Oct. 19), the Bulls will take on Louisville in Tampa on Saturday, Oct. 26. USF will have a quick turnaround to finish October, heading to Houston for a Thursday-night, ESPN clash with the Cougars on Oct. 31.
The Bulls will have the next two Saturdays off to prepare for the stretch run, starting with two consecutive home games against Memphis (Nov. 16) and SMU (Nov. 23). USF will finish the season with consecutive road games, starting with the return of UCF to the schedule. The Bulls will head to Orlando on Friday, Nov. 29 for a post-Thanksgiving Day game that is scheduled to air on ABC, ESPN or ESPN2. USF will close out the regular season on Saturday, Dec. 7 with a trip to Rutgers.
Complete 2013 Schedule
Sat., Aug. 31 | McNeese State (7 p.m.)
Sat., Sept. 7 | at Michigan St.
Sat., Sept. 14 | FAU (7 p.m.)
Sat., Sept. 21 | BYE
Sat., Sept. 28 | Miami, Fla.
Sat., Oct. 5 | Cincinnati*
Sat., Oct. 12 | at UConn*
Sat., Oct. 19 | BYE
Sat., Oct. 26 | Louisville*
Thurs., Oct. 31 | at Houston* (ESPN)
Sat., Nov. 9 | BYE
Sat., Nov. 16 | Memphis*
Sat., Nov. 23 | SMU*
Fri., Nov. 29 | at UCF* (ABC/ESPN or ESPN2)
Sat., Dec. 7 | at Rutgers*
* – Conference games
Home Games in BOLD
Kenny Chesney’s tour kicks off March 16 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, with Eric Church, Eli Young Band and Kacey Musgraves
(Tampa, Fl./ February 13, 2013) Kenny Chesney doesn’t need another reason to justify kicking off his tour again at Raymond James Stadium, as it already has insane tailgating, awesome fans and even a pirate ship waving a “Pirate Flag,” ironically the title of his just released hit single. After the Academy of Country Music (ACM) nominations were announced Wednesday, he’s got one more thing to add to the list. Chesney, along with Eric Church, Eli Young Band and Kacey Musgraves have a total of 15 ACM nominations for this year’s awards, giving this first show unprecedented star power.
Chesney, who has sold more than 27 million albums and is already a four-time ACM Entertainer of the Year winner, earned a nomination this year for his duet with Tim McGraw, “Feel Like a Rock Star.” Eric Church led all nominees with an astonishing seven nominations, including Male Vocalist of the Year, Album of the Year for “Chief” and Song of the Year for “Springsteen”. The Eli Young Band totaled three nominations, including Vocal Group of the Year and Song of the Year for “Even If It Breaks Your Heart”. Newcomer Kacey Musgraves is up for four awards including Female Vocalist of the Year, with fellow nominees such as Taylor Swift, Miranda Lambert and Carrie Underwood.
“No Shoes Nation” marks 20 years of touring for Chesney, who Billboard declares is "The biggest ticket seller in country music and among the elite touring artists in the world," and comes on the heels of his wildly successful 2012 “Brothers of the Sun” Tour, which entertained more than 1.1 million fans across the country - his 10th consecutive tour to hit that ticket sale milestone.
Tickets for the Tampa show are on sale via Ticketmaster. Raymond James Stadium’s Ticket Office will not be selling tickets to the concert. For special Kenny Chesney fan housing information in the Tampa Bay area, go to http://raymondjamesstadium.com/kenny-chesney-fan-housing/.
Kenny Chesney still has more than a month before his No Shoes Nation Tour kicks off at Raymond James Stadium on March 16, but he’s hard at work preparing to hit the road. He’s currently swamped in video footage for an even bigger video presence during his show while also making decisions on lighting designs. Beginning February 13, Kenny and his band members will report to an undisclosed location to begin tour rehearsals. “I used to say we’re like a baseball team: six months on, six months off, because I love baseball so much,” Kenny said. “But the truth is, what we do to create what people see from a show this size out there on the road really does take a lot of work, a lot of thought and a lot of practice. And the great thing about my crew is, they get as much a charge seeing the fans respond to what goes into all this work as the band and I do when we’re on stage.”
Kenny, who released his new single, “Pirate Flag,” on January 31, has been in edit bays and looking at lighting rigs since January in preparation for the tour. With the instant success of his new single, he’s that much more excited for his band to report to rehearsals next week.
“That’s when the music really starts happening, and everybody’s playing and catching up,” he said. “These are my brothers of the road, and we live to get out there and be a part of everybody’s summer! So when we’re working up the new songs – and ‘Pirate Flag’ is gonna rock – or maybe something people haven’t heard in a while, we’re already imagining how the fans are gonna respond!”
Kenny is always about his fans. His ultimate goal with every tour is to give them a show that they’ll remember. That’s one of the key components he takes into consideration while planning his next tour.
“The No Shoes Nation are the best music fans in the world – that’s why we named the tour after the fans!” he said. “They love these songs like they live their lives in ‘em, and we take that serious. They come out every summer and throw everything they got at us so hard, that’s why we rehearse – just the band – for a couple weeks before we even think about production! The music has to be right, so we’re gonna make sure we’re ready.”
The No Shoes Nation Tour kicks off March 16 at Tampa Bay’s Raymond James’ Stadium, home of the Buccaneers. His new album, Life On A Rock, will be released April 30.
Article via Great American Country
Outback Bowl officials have announced that national recording artist Darius Rucker will sing the national anthem at this year’s game when the No. 18 Michigan Wolverines square-off against the No. 10 South Carolina Gamecocks on New Year’s Day in Tampa. Rucker is preparing to release his third country album in January. He became famous as the lead singer for “Hootie & the Blowfish.” The Outback Bowl will be played on January 1st at 1:00 PM at Raymond James Stadium. Tickets are on sale through Ticketmaster at (813) 287-8844 or 1-800-745-3000 and can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets can also be purchased at any Ticketmaster outlet in the state of Florida.
For information on limited priority seating through a bowl membership package call the Outback Bowl office directly at (813) 874-BOWL or go to the bowl web site at www.outbackbowl.com for details.
Tampa, FL—The Michigan Wolverines and South Carolina Gamecocks will square-off in the Outback Bowl on January 1st in Tampa. It is a match-up of two nationally ranked teams from two of the most prestigious conferences in college football – the Big Ten and SEC. The Gamecocks are ranked 10th in the USA Today Coaches poll while the Wolverines are ranked 22nd. “We are thrilled to extend invitations to the University of Michigan and the University of South Carolina to play in this year’s Outback Bowl,” said Outback Bowl Chairman Mike Kerrigan. “These are two exciting teams featuring exceptional talent and should put on an exciting show on New Year’s Day. We look forward to hosting both teams and their fans and ensure them it will be a fabulous experience.”
The Outback Bowl will be played on January 1st at 1:00 PM at Raymond James Stadium. Tickets are on sale through Ticketmaster at (813) 287-8844 or 1-800-745-3000 and can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets can also be purchased at any Ticketmaster outlet in the state of Florida.
For information on limited priority seating through a bowl membership package call the Outback Bowl office directly at (813) 874-BOWL or go to the bowl web site at www.outbackbowl.com for details.
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Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam is making holiday shopping easier for everyone with a special Cyber Monday deal! Starting November 23, Monster Jam is offering stadium club tickets at half the price for its January 19, 2013 show in Tampa! Club tickets are regularly $35, but with this deal they are available for only $17.50 (+$2.50 facility fee). Offer is valid until November 30 through Ticketmaster. Passcode is “HOLIDAY.”
College football fans once again have a chance to voice their opinion on what teams they want to play in the Outback Bowl. Each year the bowl asks fans to vote for the SEC-Big Ten match-up they’d like to see play in Tampa’s New Year’s Day game by participating in the bowl’s Online Fan Poll at www.outbackbowl.com. “We like to get input from the fans and see who they are really excited about seeing in the game, provided they are available to us,” explains Mike Schulze, Outback Bowl Director of Communications & Sponsorships.
The Outback Bowl gets the third choice of teams from the Big Ten and Southeastern Conferences. There are currently eight teams from those two leagues ranked in the BCS Top 25.
Last year’s game featured a triple-overtime thriller between Michigan State and Georgia.
Teams are expected to be announced on Sunday, December 2. This year’s game will be played on January 1st in Raymond James Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00PM ET.
Tickets to the bowl are available online through Ticketmaster, by calling 800-745-3000, or at Ticketmaster outlets throughout Florida. Fans can get information on bowl events, area hotels and attractions, etc. at www.outbackbowl.com.
For the third year in a row, Kenny Chesney has chosen Tampa as his city and Raymond James Stadium as his venue to kick off his 2013 “No Shoes Nation” Tour on March 16. Chesney credits the insane tailgating, awesome fans and the stadium’s big pirate ship as his top reasons for his track record of choosing Tampa as his first stop. This tour will bring Chesney to 100 stadium shows in his career, a country-world record.
The Corona Light Presents Kenny Chesney’s ‘No Shoes Nation’ Tour, starring Kenny Chesney will feature special guest Eric Church – whose critically acclaimed album ‘Chief’ was named ‘Album of the Year’ at the 2012 CMA Awards – as well as Eli Young Band and Kacey Musgraves.
“I believe what we’ve created on the road is something special,” says Chesney, “the fans, myself, the band, the crew. But it’s really the fans who have given us a wonderful, unique life. What we’ve all built together is the ‘No Shoes Nation.’ There is no better name for this tour.”
‘No Shoes Nation’ marks 20 years of touring for Chesney, who Billboard declares is “The biggest ticket seller in country music and among the elite touring artists in the world,” and comes on the heels of his wildly successful 2012 ‘Brothers of the Sun’ Tour, which blew away more than 1.1 million fans across the country – his 10th consecutive tour to hit that ticket sale milestone.
Tickets for the Tampa show will go on sale December 7 via Ticketmaster. Raymond James Stadium’s Ticket Office will not be selling tickets to the concert. For fan housing information in the Tampa Bay area, go to http://raymondjamesstadium.com/kenny-chesney-fan-housing-hotels-tampa-2 .
Kenny Chesney is once again teaming up with CID Entertainment to offer very special VIP packages for the 2013 tour. Guests will choose from either Sandbar or Premium Reserved seating and have access to the pre-game tailgate party featuring a buffet of Kenny’s favorite food, drinks and music. New to this year’s program is an exclusive VIP only entrance and exit for the Sandbar as well as new gift items including a Kenny Chesney “Coach’s Hoodie”, an exclusive stadium seat cushion and more. Travel packages including hotel accommodations and shuttle transportation will also be available for each date (visit www.cidentertainment.com/kennychesney for more information).
This 17-stadium tour will have more tour dates announced in the coming months.
Sat. Mar 16 — Tampa, FL - Raymond James Stadium^
Sat. May 4 — Columbia, SC – Williams Brice Stadium*
Sat. May 11 — Dallas, TX — Dallas Cowboys Stadium^
Sat. May 18 — Milwaukee, WI — Miller Park^
Sat. May 25 — Landover, MD — FedExField^
Sat. Jun 1 Seattle, WA Centurylink Field^
Sat. Jun 8 — Philadelphia, PA — Lincoln Financial Field^
Sat. Jun 15 — Kansas City, MO — Arrowhead Stadium^
Sat. Jun 22 — Pittsburgh, PA - Heinz Field^
Sat. Jun 29 — Columbus, OH Crew Stadium^
Fri. Jul 12 — Minneapolis, MN — Target Field*
Sat. Jul 20 — Denver, CO — Sports Authority Field at Mile High^
Sat. Jul 27 — Anaheim, CA — Angels Stadium^
Sat. Aug 3 – Atlanta, GA — Georgia Dome*
Sat. Aug 10 — East Rutherford, NJ — Metlife Stadium^
Sat. Aug 17 — Detroit, MI — Ford Field^
Sat. Aug 24 — Foxboro, MA — Gillette Stadium^
* with Zac Brown Band, Eli Young Band, and Kacey Musgraves
^ with Eric Church, Eli Young Band, and Kacey Musgraves
“One of country music’s most triumphant…superstars” (The NY Times), Kenny Chesney has had 24 #1 singles, ten platinum albums, and over 27 million albums sold. The release of his thirteenth album ‘Welcome To The Fishbowl’ last summer coincided with the blockbuster, 22-stadium ‘Brothers of the Sun ’ Tour, with Chesney and Tim McGraw. Chesney is a CMT and AMA Artist of the Year, a four-time CMA Entertainer of the Year, and a four-time ACM Entertainer of the Year.
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The Marketing and Communications department at Raymond James Stadium, home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and USF Bulls, is looking for students to become part of our Student Stadium Tour Program for the Fall 2012 semester. We are in the process of recruiting outgoing, enthusiastic and eager students to help conduct tours of the stadium.
We give tours of the stadium to the public on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Our tour guides are essentially the public’s largest connection to the stadium, offering fun facts and an inside view of this popular community landmark.
As a part of our program, students will also get to learn about the inner workings of our department and the stadium, which hosts several events during the year including Outback Bowl, popular concerts, Monster Jam and the American Invitational.
As a part of our program, students can receive course credit. The program is flexible when working with students and their school schedules.
If interested, please contact Marissa Lyons at mlyons@tampasportsauthority.com
It's a Monster Jam Summer Sale! Purchase any 2013 Tampa Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam® ticket through Ticketmaster to receive a Free Pit Pass with every ticket purchased*!
Pit Passes give you the chance to meet the drivers, get up close with the Monster Jam Trucks, participate in cool games, and more! Pit Passes are a $10 each - get yours free and help make your 2013 experience even better!
Hurry as this offer ends on 11:59 PM Sunday, September 2, 2012.
2013 Tampa Shows Include:
Show #1: Saturday, January 19, 2013
Get your Jan 19, 2013 Ticket + Free Pit Pass at www.Ticketmaster.com Visit www.MonsterJam.com for complete event information and update
Show #2: Saturday, February 2, 2013 (An All-Different Show from Show #1)
Get your Feb 2, 2013 Ticket + Free Pit Pass at www.Ticketmaster.com Visit www.MonsterJam.com for complete event information and updates
2-Show Pass: Save 20% when you purchase tickets to both shows!
*Offer only valid on Ticketmaster purchases online or charge by phone (800) 745-3000
Mandatory Wanding To Take Place At All 2012 Buccaneers Home Games
Revised security procedures for fan entry will be in effect for Tampa Bay Buccaneers home games this season. The changes are mandated by the NFL Best Practices for Stadium Security, and it is hoped they will not only increase security, but be more efficient for greater fan convenience.
No longer will every person be “patted down” when entering Raymond James Stadium and gender-specific lines will no longer be necessary. Instead, all fans will be screened with a magnetic wand that will detect any metal being brought into the stadium. Attendees will need to have keys, phones and/or other metal items in their hands during the wand screening. The customary procedure for bag search will be in place and prohibited items may be confiscated.
The wanding will be conducted by Sentry Event Services security personnel, who will staff all entry points to the stadium. Individuals refusing the wanding procedures will not be admitted into the stadium.
“We’re optimistic that as fans get accustomed to this procedure, it will result in less time in line and smaller crowds at the gate prior to kickoff,” said Mickey Farrell, operations director at Raymond James Stadium. “And as always, we encourage fans to give themselves a little extra time when planning their arrival.” General admission gates open 1 ½ hours prior to kickoff and suite/club entrances open 2 ½ hours prior to kickoff. The magnetic wanding procedure was implemented in limited areas during games near the end of the 2011 season.