Florida football announced on Tuesday that they will wear alternate black uniforms for the first time ever in the program’s history. The uniforms, worn during the Gators’ Nov. 4 home game against Arkansas, are a tribute to the armed forces, veterans, and local first responders as part of the team’s “Saluting Those Who Serve Game” initiative.
The players’ nameplates will display one of five words – commitment, courage, excellence, honor, or integrity – which symbolize the qualities associated with those who serve.
“I know Gator Nation is excited about the team wearing black uniforms, but I don’t want us to lose sight of the intent relative to creating awareness and showing gratitude and appreciation for all branches of our military and first responders,” said Florida coach Billy Napier. “We’re doing something that’s going to be a lot of fun, but ultimately, we’re hopeful that we can recognize and show appreciation for a lot of selfless people that have chosen a profession of service and put their lives at risk each day. “I think there’s a lot we can learn from these special people,” he added “Last year we were able to invite members of the military to talk to the team and it was pretty awesome to hear from them. I know it impacted our players and staff in a positive way. It’s really important to me in terms of creating a level of respect and gratitude for some of these things that we take for granted at times.”
This will be the second season that Florida plays under coach Billy Napier. The Gators’ first game of the 2023 season is on Thursday, Aug. 31 against Utah.
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