UF police out in full force as fans prepare for National Championship Game

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – You could call them Florida Gator die-hards or just pumped up students.

RELATED: UF students, fans invited to watch National Championship Game at Stephen O’ Connell Center

With the Florida men’s basketball team set to take on the Houston Cougars in San Antonio for a shot at a national title, fans in Gainesville are already lining up outside the Exactech Arena hours before the gates open for the University of Florida’s watch party, which is set to kick off at 7 p.m.

One group of seniors explained to News4JAX why it was so important for them to get an early start on the festivities, noting that they were the first in line after arriving at 9 a.m. on Monday.

“It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity...We’ve been waiting for days, [and] I’d rather be sweaty out here than inside and sad,” they said.

And that excitement could be found just across University Avenue as well.

“You can’t ask for anything better,” Om Mehta, a UF student, said. “Probably the best experience I’ve had in last 4 years here...It’s the perfect capstone.”

Students also tell News4JAX that MacDinton’s Sports Bar is hosting one of the most attended watch parties, which was evident by the hundreds of people who packed line outside the venue.

One student was asked why he was in line so early, and gave a quick answer.

Another reason for lining up extra early?

“We’re the best to ever do it,” another student said.

Gator fan Jack Cammarto took a flight to Gainesville to soak in the moment and said the energy on the plane was palpable.

“[The] pilot was talking about bringing home the championship,” Cammarto said. “It was crazy. I thought the plane was actually going to crash [because] there was so much energy the whole flight.

Additionally, University of Florida police are reminding fans to prioritize their safety, releasing the following statement around 4:30 p.m.

As we prepare to celebrate this historic run of our Gators basketball team, I wanted to share that there will be a visible and increased presence of officers from the University of Florida Police Department, among other agencies, on campus and throughout the city.

This is among several measures that UFPD, along with its area partners, is taking to ensure celebrations are carried out safely.

Safety, however, starts with you. Before heading out tonight, I encourage you to download the GatorSafe app. It is full of safety resources, such as the Mobile Blue light feature and the ability to chat directly with a UFPD dispatcher.

Also, take the time to make a game plan tonight: Tell your friends where you plan to be and report back when you make it home. If possible, use the buddy system and always stay with a friend. It’s easy to get separated in big crowds. Share your location digitally with someone, if possible. Finally, make sure your cellphone has enough charge to make it through the night.

Tonight should be about having fun, making memories, and celebrating our Gators basketball team. Small steps, such as sharing your location and keeping those you love informed, will ensure that when you look back on today, the highlight will be about how this was one of the best nights of your life.

Brett Knowles, UF Chief of Police