Gator Country

The University of Florida has now made it easier for fans to donate tickets. / Gator Country file photo by Saj Guevara

'Tis the Season . . .

It's better to give than receive . . .

Waste not, want not . . .

Whatever the preferred mantra, the University Athletic Association is seeking to make it easier for fans to catch the proverbial ‘giving spirit,’ while also perhaps making another fan’s wish come true, by providing a donation option to ticket holders. The newly added feature complements the ‘ticket forwarding’ program and allows fans to donate any potentially unused tickets to charity.

“There are times a fan may be unable to use a purchased ticket for a variety of reasons. Rather than it go to waste, we would like to see it be used by a friend or local fan who otherwise may not have the means to attend,” said Assistant Athletics Director Mark Gajda.

Since 2008, tickets holders have had the option of electronically forwarding a ticket to a friend, but previously at a cost. The fee was eliminated this year, and the electronic donation option is only weeks old. The new feature returns the ticket to the UAA, and is designated as one to be donated to charity.

“There are several charities in the area that we support, and many great fans will be afforded the opportunity to attend games through this program. We had over 100 tickets donated to charity for the Jacksonville State football game,” Gajda said.

The program is not limited to season ticket holders, but rather available to anyone who purchased the ticket through the Athletic Department. Both, the ticket forwarding and charitable donation options are available online through Gatorzone.com, or tickets may be physically mailed.

“We wanted to make it as easy as possible, and without cost, for fans to forward or donate their tickets. We think this program does that,” Gajda said.

With basketball season in full swing, the hope is that the ease and merits of the program will be fully embraced, and will not only provide a winning scenario for fans, but a winning environment for the Gators.

“Donating to the Gator Ticket Bank allows fans who can’t attend a game to give someone less fortunate the chance to see the Gators in person. It also helps fill the O’Connell Center to give our team the home court edge it deserves game in and game out,” said Executive Associate Athletics Director, Mike Hill.

About the author

Brent Mechler

Brent Joseph Mechler II received his Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism from the University of Florida in 1997. Living in a basketball family, his father played at Iona and brother-in-law walked-on at Florida. Brent’s passion, knowledge and writings gravitate around the hardwood. He has been an active member of GC forum community, known as “akaGatorhoops.” Brent resides in South Florida and works as a residential real estate agent. His passion for writing has manifested itself in a role as columnist for a statewide fishing magazine, as well as additional published writings that include a piece in Guy Harvey Magazine. Brent enjoys Gator basketball, fishing, and of course, writing. In a perfect marriage of interests, Brent will be covering various aspects of Florida’s basketball program.

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