UF has announced that the Gators’ baseball stadium will be renamed Condron Family Ballpark, effective immediately. The stadium had been known as Florida Ballpark since construction was completed in 2020.
The new signage will be unveiled prior to the game between Florida and No. 1 Tennessee on Friday night, and Gary Condron will throw out the ceremonial first pitch.
“I can’t thank Gary and the entire Condron family enough for all of their contributions to our program over the years,” coach Kevin O’Sullivan said in a statement. “Gary Condron’s passion and support for Florida baseball is second to none, and I can’t think of a better person for this honor. We’re thrilled to honor Gary and his family through the naming of our state-of-the-art facility, and I’m excited for all that lies ahead for this program inside of Condron Ballpark.”
Condron is the largest donor in Gator Boosters history. He’s donated more than $30 million over the years, which has helped with the construction of the Hawkins Academic Center, the renovation of the O’Connell Center, the baseball stadium and several other things.
His name can be found all over campus, including the football team’s indoor practice facility that is also named after him.
“I could have never dreamed in my life that the Gators would be playing in a ballpark that has my name associated to it in any way, shape or form,” Condron said. “It’s an honor. I couldn’t be more proud and happy for my family and proud for the Gators.
“I’m really excited for my kids when they bring their kids to that stadium. That’s what I’m most excited about.”
Condron, 67, played baseball for the Gators in the 1970s as a walk-on. He graduated from UF with a degree in building construction and founded the Conlan Company in 1987, from which he has earned his fortune. The Conlan Company is one of the nation’s top manufacturers of light-industrial complexes, including Amazon distribution centers.
“Few Gators are as loyal and dedicated to the University of Florida as Gary,” athletic director Scott Stricklin said. “He credits much of his success to his time at UF and, in turn, has been incredibly generous in giving back in support of his beloved Gators. That support, combined with Gary’s history as a former Gator baseball player, makes it a natural fit for the Condron family name to forever adorn the home of Florida baseball.”