A milestone season and a look ahead
The American Conference has revealed that its annual Football Kickoff and Media Days will be held in St. Petersburg, Florida, on July 23‑24, 2026. The two‑day gathering will bring together every head coach in the league, along with 28 student‑athletes who will serve as the public face of the conference’s upcoming campaign.
Attendees can expect a packed schedule that includes on‑camera interviews, behind‑the‑scenes footage, and a variety of fan‑friendly activities designed to celebrate the sport. Media partners will have exclusive access to press conferences, while supporters will be able to capture photos and meet the coaches and players in person.
Historic victories and playoff berth
The announcement comes on the heels of a breakout 2025 season for the conference. Nine of its teams earned bowl invitations, and the league posted victories over opponents from the Big 12, ACC, Conference USA and Mountain West. Tulane, riding a 12‑win campaign, secured a College Football Playoff berth as the No. 11 seed, underscoring the league’s rising national profile.
The conference also distinguished itself as one of only four leagues to have three different programs finish with eleven or more wins, and it remains the sole league to have defeated teams from the Big 12, Big Ten, SEC and ACC in non‑conference play. Those achievements have set high expectations for the upcoming season and have heightened anticipation for the 2026 kickoff event.
With a blend of seasoned leadership and fresh talent, the American Conference looks poised to continue its upward trajectory. The upcoming Media Days will not only highlight the strategic direction of each program but also give fans a rare glimpse into the preparation that fuels the league’s recent successes.