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NewsWFLA News Channel 8September 8, 2026Hillsborough County

University of Florida revives 'gator bait' cheer six years after ban

Photo: WFLA News Channel 8

The University of Florida brought back its 'gator bait' cheer during a Saturday night season opener, reversing a ban enacted six years prior due to concerns over historic racist imagery.

Higher EducationSportsCultureUniversity of Florida
Read the full story at WFLA News Channel 8

Why It Matters

The change alters game-day traditions at a major state university that had previously restricted the phrase following administrative review.

Key Facts

  • The University of Florida revived the 'gator bait' cheer during its season opener on Saturday night.
  • The cheer had been banned for more than six years prior to this decision.
  • The initial ban was implemented due to concerns regarding historic racist imagery associated with the phrase.

Who's Mentioned

OrganizationUniversity of Florida“The institution that revived the cheer.”