The list of College Softball Programs in Florida is a Softball Players Dream

Ricky Bumgardner Jr | 1.9.2026

Why Living in Florida Is a Dream for Softball Players

For softball players, Florida isn’t just the Sunshine State — it’s a softball mecca. From powerhouse NCAA programs to competitive junior colleges, the state offers an incredible variety of softball opportunities. Living in Florida puts you close to the action, whether you’re playing, attending games, or looking to take your skills to the next level.

Endless Opportunities to Watch Top-Level Softball

Florida is home to some of the nation’s best softball programs. Division I schools like the Florida Gators, Florida State Seminoles, and UCF Knights bring electric atmospheres to every game, while Division II, NAIA, and NJCAA programs deliver competitive, high-level softball year-round.

For aspiring players, being in Florida means you can watch elite teams play live, analyze different styles, and learn firsthand what it takes to succeed at each level. Game attendance isn’t just fun — it’s an educational opportunity, giving young athletes a chance to study pitching, hitting, and defensive strategies in real-time.

"Florida is a softball hotspot like no other. Having so many talented athletes in the state means college and pro softball fans get to watch incredible skill development up close, and for players, it’s an amazing opportunity to be seen as they pursue the next level beyond college. It’s great for the sport, the athletes, and the entire softball community here — it truly makes Florida a breeding ground for elite talent."
— Ricky Bumgardner Jr., Owner, Florida Heat

Check out the list of College Softball Programs in the State of Florida

NCAA Division I Softball Programs (Florida)

These are top‑level, four‑year collegiate teams competing in the NCAA’s highest division: 

1. University of Florida – Florida Gators (Gainesville) 

2. Florida State University – Florida State Seminoles (Tallahassee) 

3. University of Central Florida – UCF Knights (Orlando) 

4. University of South Florida – South Florida Bulls (Tampa) 

5. Florida Atlantic University – Florida Atlantic Owls (Boca Raton)

6. Florida International University – FIU Panthers (Miami) 

7. Florida Gulf Coast University – FGCU Eagles (Fort Myers) 

8. Jacksonville University – Jacksonville Dolphins (Jacksonville) 

9. Stetson University – Stetson Hatters (DeLand) 

10. Bethune‑Cookman University – Bethune‑Cookman Wildcats (Daytona Beach) 

11. Florida A&M University – Florida A&M Rattlers (Tallahassee) 

Access to Camps and Recruiting Opportunities

Florida isn’t just about watching games — it’s also about hands-on development. Top programs host summer and off-season camps designed to help players refine skills, gain exposure, and connect with college coaches.

Attending these camps is a crucial step for players who want to play at the next level. College coaches are actively scouting Florida athletes because the state produces year-round talent that’s well-prepared for college softball. Players living in Florida can attend multiple camps and showcases in a single week, maximizing visibility and improving their chances to be recruited.

Year-Round Weather Means More Development

One of the biggest advantages of living in Florida is the ability to practice and play softball year-round. While other states are stuck indoors during winter months, Florida athletes can continue skill development, participate in travel tournaments, and maintain conditioning without interruption.

This constant access to the field translates into better preparation, stronger fundamentals, and more opportunities to shine in front of recruiters. Players here aren’t limited by weather, which can make a big difference when competing for spots on college rosters.

Florida Softball Head Coach Tim Walton in the Fall posing with former Florida Gators and current Florida Vibe Professional Softball Athletes. Photo by: Ricky Bumgardner Jr of Four One Sports

NCAA Division II Softball Programs (Florida)

Strong, competitive four‑year programs often featured in Sunshine State Conference play: 

1. Barry University – Barry Buccaneers (Miami Shores)

2. Eckerd College – Eckerd Tritons (St. Petersburg)

3. Edward Waters University – Edward Waters Tigers (Jacksonville)

4. Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University – Embry‑Riddle Eagles (Daytona Beach)

5. Florida Institute of Technology – Florida Tech Panthers (Melbourne)

6. Florida Southern College – Florida Southern Moccasins (Lakeland)

7. Flagler College – Flagler Saints (St. Augustine)

8. Lynn University – Lynn Fighting Knights (Boca Raton)

9. Nova Southeastern University – Nova Southeastern Sharks (Davie) 

10. Palm Beach Atlantic University – Palm Beach Atlantic Sailfish (West Palm Beach)

11. Rollins College – Rollins Tars (Winter Park)

12. Saint Leo University – Saint Leo Lions (Saint Leo)

13. University of Tampa – Tampa Spartans (Tampa) 

A Softball Community That Supports Growth

Florida isn’t just rich in programs — it’s rich in softball culture. Players, coaches, and families form a tight-knit network where everyone is passionate about the sport. From local tournaments and showcase events to high school and college games, players are constantly surrounded by an environment that celebrates growth, skill, and competition.

Being part of this community gives players an edge in recruitment, because coaches see them competing regularly and thriving in high-level environments.

NCAA Division III Softball Programs (Florida)

As of now, there are no NCAA Division III colleges in Florida that sponsor softball at the varsity level. NCAA Division III programs are widespread nationally, but none are based in Florida at this time. 

NAIA Softball Programs in Florida

Competitive NAIA schools with active softball teams offering a high level of play: 

1. Ave Maria University – Ave Maria Gyrenes (Ave Maria)

2. Florida Memorial University – Florida Memorial Lions (Miami Gardens)

3. Florida National University – Florida National Conquistadors (Hialeah)

4. Keiser University – Keiser Seahawks (West Palm Beach)

5. Southeastern University – Southeastern Fire (Lakeland)

6. St. Thomas University – St. Thomas Bobcats (Miami Gardens)

7. Warner University – Warner Royals (Lake Wales)

8. Webber International University – Webber International Warriors (Babson Park)

9. New College of Florida – New College Banyans (Sarasota; sometimes listed as NAIA/club level depending on structure) 

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NJCAA (Junior College) Softball Programs in Florida

Junior colleges offering collegiate softball with competitive schedules and postseason play: 

1. Broward College

2. Chipola College (Marianna)

3. College of Central Florida (Ocala)

4. Daytona State College (Daytona Beach)

5. Eastern Florida State College (Melbourne)

6. Florida Gateway College (Lake City)

7. Florida SouthWestern State College (Fort Myers)

8. Florida State College at Jacksonville (Jacksonville)

9. Gulf Coast State College (Panama City)

10. Hillsborough Community College (Tampa)

11. Indian River State College (Fort Pierce)

12. Lake Sumter State College (Leesburg)

13. Miami Dade College (Miami)

14. Northwest Florida State College (Niceville)

15. Palm Beach State College

16. Pasco‑Hernando State College (New Port Richey)

17. Pensacola State College (Pensacola)

18. Polk State College (Winter Haven)

19. Santa Fe College (Gainesville)

20. Seminole State College of Florida (Sanford)

21. South Florida State College (Avon Park)

22. State College of Florida, Manatee‑Sarasota

23. Tallahassee Community College (Tallahassee)

Final Thoughts

For aspiring college softball players, there’s no better place to live than Florida. The combination of elite programs, abundant camps, year-round weather, and a passionate softball community creates an unmatched environment for development and exposure.

Whether it’s watching Division I games, attending summer camps, or competing in local tournaments, Florida offers everything a player needs to take their skills to the next level — all while enjoying some of the best weather and softball culture in the country.

Quick Notes

• Florida does not currently have NCAA Division III softball programs at four‑year colleges. 

• NJCAA schools include some nationally elite junior college programs, such as Northwest Florida State College, which won the NJCAA Division I World Series title. 

• This list spans a wide range of competition levels, offering everything from Power Five NCAA D1 softball to local junior college rivalry games.