UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

ABOUT CENTRAL FLORIDA

Central Florida operates 17 varsity athletic programs from its 69,818-student campus in Orlando, competing in the Big 12 Conference at the Football Bowl Subdivision level. Founded in 1963, UCF has emerged as one of the nation's most expansive athletic departments, fielding teams across football, basketball, soccer, swimming and diving, tennis, golf, cross country, baseball, softball, lacrosse, and volleyball. The university's location in a metropolitan area of over 2 million residents provides substantial recruiting advantages and community engagement opportunities for Knight athletics.

Football represents UCF's highest-profile sport, with the program claiming a 25-0 undefeated season in 2017 that elevated national visibility despite postseason bowl controversies. The Knights transitioned to the Big 12 Conference after competing in the American Athletic Conference, positioning the program among major collegiate football powers. Men's basketball, women's soccer, and baseball round out the department's flagship sports, while Olympic sports like women's lacrosse and swimming and diving contribute depth to UCF's athletic portfolio across gender equity requirements.