Some insight in regards to the future of the FHSAA Football Finals

[Joshua Wilson]

Had an email exchange with Dr. Dearing, the executive director of the FHSAA on Friday in regards to the future of the location of the FHSAA Football Finals. 

 

Right now they are still in the process of doing some wrap up meetings in regards to the finals. This will be completed within the next 30-45 days.

 

As such, Orlando has the possibility to extend the current contract for another two years, as long as they meet the FHSAA requirements (which they have done since 2007). 

 

Although the Citrus Bowl is going through a major reconstruction with 90 percent of the stadium being replaced, the facility should be 90 percent ready if it were to indeed host the finals for 2014.

 

Also on another note, Champion has signed on be to the title sponsor for the Football Finals. This is the first known title sponsor since 2009 when Dodge was sponsoring the Football Finals.

 

My Opinion: If anything, I get the feeling Orlando is the front runner to see the contract renewed before any thoughts of an RFP (request for proposal) is even thought of right now. Personally, I have been for a change of venue, but some of that has been in regards to the City of Orlando and Orange County moving slow to make any significant upgrades to the Citrus Bowl. However, now the fact the stadium will look like a real stadium and that things will be upgraded (even the press box), I am excited to see what the new stadium will look like in front of my own two eyes.

[SportsNut25]

Very interesting notes here, Joshua! Any estimate as to when they would put out an RFP, if they go down that route?

[Joshua Wilson]

Likely sometime in April it would seem.

[peezy28]

Yeah they have some major events in November and then December and January that they will need to be ready for so construction crews will work around the clock.  The hull of the stadium and seating will need to be complete prior to the 2014 Florida Classic (FAMU vs Bethune) because most years this game is a sellout.  If they move that, they risk losing that revenue forever.

[Joshua Wilson]

I agree that they need to have this ready. They keep saying it should be ready. If we don't get any hurricane threats this summer then things should be looking good for them to get this done on time.