Football season is officially back in South Florida. Excitement for the 2026 Boca Raton Bowl and FAU football season kicked off on August 4 as Spirit of Giving hosted its annual The Kickoff event at American Social in Boca Raton.

The gathering marked the beginning of another exciting football season while bringing together community leaders, business partners, and supporters who help make South Florida a thriving place to live, work, and play.

The event featured several of Boca Raton’s strongest leaders, including Boca Regional Chamber’s CEO and President Troy McLellan, Spirit of Giving Executive Director Lindy Harvey, Boca Raton Bowl Executive Director Doug Mosley, FAU’s Hagerty Family Head Football Coach Zach Kittley, Deputy Athletic Director Michael Graffin.

The annual event provided an opportunity for community leaders and sponsors to connect, celebrate their collective impact, and reaffirm their commitment to supporting the Boca Raton Bowl, FAU Athletics and the greater Boca Raton community.

Coach Kittley shared his excitement for the upcoming season, calling football season the greatest time of the year.

“We appreciate everyone in the community and all that you do, not only for FAU Athletics but for FAU in general,” Kittley said.

Graffin also expressed his enthusiasm as the Owls prepare for another season and encouraged fans to support the team at home.

“September 12, please put it on your calendar now. 7:30 p.m., we play Navy at home,” Graffin said.

Boca Raton Bowl Executive Director Doug Mosley thanked attendees for their continued support of the bowl game and its impact on the community and Palm Beach County.

“It’s our 13th year of the Boca Raton Bowl, and we couldn’t have made it this far without all of you in this room,” Mosley said.

The FAU football season officially kicks off on September 5 at 7:45 p.m. when the Owls travel to Gainesville to face the University of Florida Gators.

The Boca Raton Bowl is set for December 18 at 11 a.m. at Flagler Credit Union Stadium in Boca Raton.