Emily Johns can’t wait to see how UF is going to pull off Gator Growl’s first-ever showcase on Flavet Field on Friday.
The 20-year-old marches in the Homecoming Parade every year with her ROTC group and then goes to the concert at night.
Performers for this year’s Growl show include Ludacris, Foster the People and former SNL cast member Brooks Wheelan.
“I’m pretty much just going for Ludacris,” the UF animal science sophomore said. “It’s a cheap concert.”
Student Government Productions is paying Ludacris $90,000 to perform and $120,000 for Foster the People, said Jonathan Schonfeld, SGP co-chairman.
In 2011, the Goo Goo Dolls received $110,000 while the Steve Miller Band was paid $160,000 in 2008.
“I think it’s going to be way better of a turnout than last year, and the shows are designed for the students,” he said.
Haley Doyle, Growl associate producer of communications, said ticket sales are looking well and are higher this year than last year.
Flavet Field holds 17,000 seats, and bleacher tickets have already sold out. Gator Growl was held at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium for the past 82 years.
“Right now, we’re preparing for a sellout,” Doyle said.
The Homecoming weekend will kick off with a 2-mile fun run called the SunTrust Gator Gallop, which is open to everyone. The race starts at 11:30 a.m. and begins at the Percy Beard Track. The Homecoming Parade will follow at noon.
About 400 people have signed up for the race, said Faith Strasser, Gator Gallop director.
“It should be really fun, and it’ll be a good atmosphere because it’s the kick off before the parade,” Strasser said.
[A version of this story ran on page 4 on 10/15/2014]
