SEC Soccer is Back in Pensacola
By Brooke E. Forester, PhD | November 1, 2025
It is that time of the year again when elite women’s soccer returns to Pensacola, Florida. The SEC Soccer Tournament began on November 2 at 12:30 p.m. with the opening match between Alabama and South Carolina. A total of 12 teams will be vying for a slot to play on Championship Sunday, November 9.
This is Pensacola’s fourth consecutive year hosting the tournament which has quickly become a tradition for locals and visitors alike. In 2024 over 7,600 fans attended the tournament. Based on previous years’ turnout and growing enthusiasm for the tournament, we expect to see even greater attendance records at the newly renovated Ashton Brosnaham Park. In addition, the sport of soccer is thriving at all levels. According to the 2024 Sports & Fitness Industry Association’s (SFIA) Trends in Participation Report, soccer, basketball, and baseball have the greatest number of participants. Further, The National Federation for State High School Associations reported in the 2024-2025 season that nearly 878,000 student-athletes participated in high school soccer.
The surge in soccer participation further solidifies the magnitude of SEC Soccer in Pensacola as the 12 teams battle for an automatic bid to the NCAA Division I Championship. The single-elimination format guarantees every match will be high stakes. Some of women’s top soccer programs are heading to the Gulf Coast, including locals’ favorite teams. Soccer powerhouses Arkansas, Vanderbilt, Georgia, Tennessee, and South Carolina have all clinched their spots in the tournament in addition to Alabama, Auburn, LSU, and Mississippi State. Oklahoma, Kentucky, and Florida hope to shake up nationally ranked teams and make their way to the championship game as well.
The week-long tournament will highlight Pensacola’s southern hospitality and coastal community atmosphere. Between matches, fans will be able to explore the world’s most beautiful beaches and mouthwatering restaurants. On Championship Sunday at 11:30 a.m., fans will be able to participate in free Fan Fest activities which include food trucks, music, and family friendly activities. Intense competition, Fan Fest activities, and local hospitality will create an unforgettable experience for fans and competitors. All-tournament passes are available for $46, with individual session tickets ranging from $8-$18. Welcome to Pensacola! Great weather, fun, and a growing soccer tradition are waiting for everyone.
Brooke E. Forester, PhD
University of South Alabama
Associate Professor
Department of Health, Kinesiology, & Sport
Pensacola Sports Board of Director