SEC media days flourish in Tampa, cementing a lasting partnership
The SEC held its first media days in Florida, praising Tampa and the Tampa Bay Sports Commission for a smoothly run four-day event.
During opening remarks on July 20, SEC commissioner Greg Sankey commended Tampa and the Tampa Bay Sports Commission for hosting the conference's first media days in the Sunshine State. New TBSC executive director Lanness Robinson, who took over from long-time leader Rob Higgins, coordinated a four-day schedule that accommodated about 1,200 credentialed media members at the Tampa Marriott Water Street, Raymond James Stadium and nearby hotels.
Robinson’s team arranged nightly activities—including a fanfest, welcome reception, arena social hour and a stadium closing party—to ensure a positive experience for journalists. The event generated more than 50 hours of one outlet-linked content, which Robinson expects will translate into future tourism for the region. The partnership already includes the ReliaQuest Bowl, Gasparilla Bowl and past men’s basketball tournaments, and will expand to host women’s gymnastics championships in 2027-28 and the Florida-Georgia rivalry game in 2027. With the University of South Florida moving to an on-campus stadium, the TBSC sees additional opportunities for neutral-site college football contests.
Why it matters
The successful SEC media event showcases Tampa's ability to host major sports gatherings, boosting local tourism and future event prospects.
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