TAMPA, Fla.– The University of South Florida (USF) Athletics has teamed up with Publix to feature the grocery chain’s logo on the field at Raymond James Stadium during home football games, thanks to a new NCAA rule passed this summer.
“We are committed to making South Florida a model athletic department for the modern era, and on-field commercial logos present a unique opportunity to further support our student-athletes and athletic programs,” said Michael Kelly, USF’s Vice President for Athletics. “Publix, with its deep local roots and nearly a century of history, is a nationally recognized brand, and we are thrilled to partner with them for this historic sponsorship.”
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The Publix logo will be prominently displayed on the field during Bulls games at Raymond James Stadium, which also serves as the home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The logo will be placed in the northwest and southeast corners of the stadium, near the 35-yard lines, making it visible to both regional and national audiences.
“We are excited to support USF’s student-athletes,” said Hannah Herring, Publix media relations manager. “This sponsorship strengthens our connection to the community, and we wish the Bulls a fantastic upcoming season.”
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In June, the NCAA approved on-field commercial advertising at football games for the first time, allowing programs to generate additional revenue. Schools can choose to place one large logo at the 50-yard line or two smaller logos elsewhere on the field.
The collaboration between USF Athletics and Publix was facilitated by Vinik Sports Group (VSG), the Tampa-based multimedia rights holder for USF Athletics.
The 2024 USF Football Season kicked off on Saturday at Raymond James Stadium with a massive win against Bethune-Cookman. With their horns up, the USF Bulls claimed a 48-3 victory.
Read: USF Bulls Going About Their ‘Daily Business’ Before Season With High Expectations
The Bulls entered the season following their most successful turnaround in program history, highlighted by a 45-0 victory over Syracuse in the Boca Raton Bowl last year.
The Bulls travel to Alabama and face the Crimson Tide on Saturday, September 7, at 7:00 PM.
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