The Florida Gulf Coast League (FGCL)—recognized as the nation’s first and premier summer collegiate softball league—is preparing for a 2027 season that will bring together some of the nation’s top collegiate softball talent for top-level competition and player development combined with the ultimate Florida Gulf Coast experience.

As part of the American Collegiate League (ACL), the FGCL provides collegiate softball players with opportunities to compete at a high level of play and the chance to further develop their skills outside of their traditional college seasons.

Founded in 2019, the Florida Gulf Coast League has established itself as a premier destination for collegiate softball players from across the country, creating a pathway for athletes to compete against the best while preparing for the next level of their careers.

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A Proven Pathway to the Women’s College World Series and Professional Softball

The FGCL’s success extends far beyond the summer season.

Since its inception, more than 60 former FGCL players have competed in the NCAA Women’s College World Series, while over 50 former players have continued their softball careers professionally following their collegiate playing days.

These achievements highlight the league’s commitment to providing an environment where talented athletes can sharpen their skills, gain valuable playing experience, and prepare for the highest levels of the sport.

The FGCL has become a destination for players representing colleges and universities from across the nation, bringing together athletes from all NCAA divisions and conferences in a competitive environment designed to promote growth, development, and opportunity.

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2027 Expansion: Three Divisions, 22 Teams, and Florida’s Most Beautiful Beach Destinations

The 2027 Florida Gulf Coast League season will feature 22 teams across three divisions, located in Bradenton, Sarasota, and Destin Beach, Florida.

Each location offers the combination of high-level collegiate softball, impressive accommodations, beautiful beaches, entertainment, and some of Florida’s most popular attractions.

Bradenton – The Original Home of the FGCL

Located along Florida’s beautiful Gulf Coast, Bradenton serves as the birthplace and foundation of the Florida Gulf Coast League.

The area is known for its rich sports history and proximity to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country including the white-sand beaches of Anna Maria Island, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach, along with waterfront dining, shopping, boating, fishing, and outdoor adventures.

Bradenton also provides convenient access to the Tampa Bay region, where athletes can enjoy professional sporting events, entertainment, and attractions including Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

Sarasota – World-Class Beaches, Culture, and Entertainment

The Sarasota division will bring FGCL softball to one of Florida’s most recognized coastal destinations.

Known for its award-winning beaches, including the world-famous Siesta Key Beach and Lido Key, Sarasota provides players the opportunity to explore St. Armands Circle, downtown Sarasota, waterfront restaurants, shopping districts, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation.

Destin Beach – The Emerald Coast Experience

The addition of Destin Beach and Florida’s Panhandle region represents a new chapter in the FGCL’s continued expansion.

Located along Florida’s Emerald Coast, Destin is famous for its sugar-white sand, emerald-green waters, and vibrant coastal atmosphere.

Players will also have access to paddleboarding, boating, fishing, snorkeling, and popular destinations such as HarborWalk Village, Crab Island, and nearby 30A beach communities (the distinct, low-rise coastal towns located along Scenic Highway 30A in South Walton County, Florida, between Destin and Panama City Beach).

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More Than Softball: A Unique Summer Experience Off the Fields, Too

The Florida Gulf Coast League offers athletes more than just games—players will enjoy quality housing and accommodations conveniently located near the beaches and attractions in each of the league’s three destinations.

With opportunities to experience Florida’s Gulf Coast lifestyle, explore local attractions, enjoy outdoor recreation, and build lasting friendships with teammates from across the country, the FGCL will provide a well-balanced summer on and off the softball fields.

Athletes and their families can also take advantage of nearby professional sports, entertainment destinations, shopping, restaurants, and Florida’s world-renowned theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort.

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Elite Competition and a National Championship Experience

The 2027 FGCL season will begin in June, with teams competing five days per week over approximately four weeks of regular season play.

The season will feature interleague competition and postseason opportunities, culminating in championship play and all-star recognition.

The summer will conclude with the College World Series, scheduled for July 12–14, 2027, at Santa Fe State College in Gainesville, Florida.

Another key addition to the 2027 season will be the formation of Team Florida, which will compete against invited international teams as part of the FGCL International Tournament, further expanding the league’s competitive reach and providing athletes with international playing experience.

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Players Wanted: Applications Now Being Accepted for Summer 2027

The Florida Gulf Coast League is now accepting player applications for the 2027 summer season.

Collegiate softball players from universities and colleges across the country, representing all divisions and conferences, are encouraged to apply.

Teams and rosters will be assembled in advance of the summer season, with opportunities available across the Bradenton, Sarasota, and Destin Beach divisions.

For player applications and additional information, CLICK HERE or visit: www.americancollegiateleague.com

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About the Florida Gulf Coast League

Founded in 2019, the Florida Gulf Coast League is the nation’s first and premier summer collegiate softball league, providing elite competition, player development, and exposure for collegiate athletes from across the United States.

As part of the American Collegiate League, the FGCL is committed to growing the game of softball while creating meaningful opportunities for players to advance their athletic careers.

With more than 60 former players reaching the NCAA Women’s College World Series and over 50 advancing to professional softball, the FGCL has established a proven tradition of excellence and continues to expand its impact on the sport.

2027 FGCL Locations: Bradenton | Sarasota | Destin Beach, Florida