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Daytona Stadium
Daytona Stadium, also known as Larry Kelly Field, is a vibrant multi-purpose stadium located in Daytona Beach, Florida. With a seating capacity of 9,601, this stadium has been a home to the Bethune-Cookman University Wildcats football team since its construction in 1988.
Named in honor of former Daytona Beach Mayor Lawrence J. Kelly, Daytona Stadium has a rich history of hosting various sporting events. Until the end of the 2009 Bike Week season, it was the prestigious venue for the AMA Flat Track motorcycle championships during Daytona Beach Bike Week. However, the track was eventually removed as part of stadium renovations, leading to the relocation of those races to a new dirt track at Daytona International Speedway.
In 2008 and 2009, the stadium proudly served as the host of the Florida Football Alliance annual "Alliance Bowl" season-championship game. While undergoing surface replacement in 2010, the Alliance Bowl was temporarily held in Jacksonville. However, it returned to Daytona Stadium in 2011, continuing its tradition at this iconic venue.
Since 2014, the stadium has gained further prominence by hosting the NAIA National Championship football game, attracting teams from across the nation to compete for the prestigious title.
Moreover, Daytona Stadium has become a sought-after destination for the Tropical Bowl, a postseason college football all-star game. In the years 2017, 2018, and 2019, this exciting event brought together talented college players who showcased their skills on the field at this remarkable stadium.
With its longstanding history and diverse array of sporting events, Daytona Stadium remains a cherished gathering place for sports enthusiasts, creating unforgettable moments and fostering a strong sense of community in Daytona Beach, Wildcat Nation and beyond.
