The American Conference is gearing up for its annual Kickoff and Media Days, a two‑day showcase that will bring together every head coach and a select group of student‑athletes to kick off the 2026 football season. The event promises a blend of media engagements, behind‑the‑scenes content and interactive fan experiences, all set against the vibrant backdrop of St. Petersburg, Florida.
Event Overview
Media availability will kick off on Thursday afternoon, July 23, and continue through Friday, July 24. All 14 head coaches and 28 student‑athletes are slated to participate, offering a rare glimpse into the preparations of each program. The schedule has been designed to maximize interaction, with press conferences, photo opportunities and meet‑and‑greets woven throughout the program.
Media Coverage
Fans will be able to follow the action live on ESPN+, which will broadcast the Kickoff on Friday, July 24. The network will also provide extensive digital coverage, including interviews and exclusive behind‑the‑scenes footage. This partnership underscores the conference’s growing visibility and its commitment to reaching a national audience.
Fan Experience
Beyond the formal sessions, the event is built around fan engagement. Attendees can look forward to signing sessions, photo opportunities with coaches and players, and a series of interactive activities that bring the college‑football community together. The conference emphasizes that this is a chance for supporters to connect directly with the leaders and rising stars of their favorite teams.
Season in Review
The momentum from the 2025 season continues to shape expectations for 2026. The American Conference celebrated a historic year, with nine teams earning bowl eligibility and securing victories over opponents from the Big 12, ACC, Conference USA and Mountain West. Tulane’s rise to the No. 11 spot in the College Football Playoff further highlighted the league’s competitiveness. In fact, the conference was one of only four — alongside the Big 12, Big Ten and SEC — to boast three teams with 11 or more wins last season, and it remains the sole league to have defeated teams from every major conference in non‑conference play.
Looking Ahead
Commissioner Tim Pernetti expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming event, noting that "the Kickoff and Media Days provide a unique platform to celebrate our teams, our coaches and our fans while building excitement for the season ahead." With a strong foundation laid by last year’s achievements and a full slate of media and fan activities planned, the American Conference is poised to carry that energy into 2026 and beyond.