JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The University of North Florida (UNF) has never fielded a football team, until 2025.
In a highly-anticipated collaboration, the Jacksonville Sharks and UNF are joining forces for a historic event: UNF’s first-ever football game.
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The announcement was made just before the start of the annual Swoop the Loop 5K on campus, with the Sharks serving as the presenting sponsor.
On April 19, 2025, the Sharks will take on a new identity as the “North Florida Ospreys” for one night during an official Indoor Football League game at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena.
The Sharks will wear custom jerseys adorned with the “North Florida Ospreys” emblem in the school’s colors. Throughout the game, the team will be referred to as the Ospreys in a college-like environment, including UNF cheerleaders, pep band and fans.
“Remember, we play indoors. There is no weather. It’s 73 degrees and closed all the time,” said Jacksonville Sharks owner Eric Stupski. So it’s just very nice to come out and enjoy a very high paced and exciting football game.”
At the end of the game, these unique jerseys will be auctioned off, with proceeds benefiting both the UNF Foundation and the Jacksonville Sharks Foundation.
Doors will open at 6:00 p.m., one hour before kickoff.
In addition to the game, attendees will have the opportunity to meet and engage with Sharks players, the coaching staff, and the Attack Dance Team for pictures and autographs on the field after the game.
