Community Leader Forum - Jacksonville - Rick Catlett (12/2/09)

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (December 2, 2009) - Gator Bowl Association President, Rick Catlett, spoke to an intrigued audience last Wednesday at GrayRobinson's Community Leader Forum in Jacksonville. Catlett explained that the goals and purpose of the Gator Bowl Association actually have little to do with football.

"The bigger piece of what we do or what we are about is economic impact and development," said Catlett. Last year, though the association had the chance to sign Florida State and Nebraska to play at the Gator Bowl, it ultimately chose Clemson and Nebraska because there would be more economic impact on the city due to out-of-state fans utilizing Jacksonville's hospitality and entertainment industry.

This year, however, the Gator Bowl Association is fighting to bring in Florida State for the Gator Bowl. Being Coach Bowden's last game, it is anticipated that fans from all over the country will attend, bringing a great economic impact to the city. In light of his recent clash with the ACC over his contract and its implications on whether Florida State will be playing in the Gator Bowl, Catlett joked that "it may be appropriate that I'm here because I might need a lawyer."

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