First Coast Sports Media
Explore Your Favorite Local Sports Teams
In-depth coverage of local high school, college and professional sports teams and events in the Northern Florida Region
Nassau Pride: Soaring High in the ABA
February 6, 2024
Staff, FIRST COAST SPORTS MEDIA
Images from Saturday's game, Nassau Pride v. St. Augustine Glory in Fernandina Beach, Florida.
The Nassau Pride, a men's professional basketball team based in Nassau County, Florida, is making waves in the American Basketball Association (ABA). Founded in 2019 by Darrin Eakins and Dr. Jeremy Coleman, the team has quickly carved a niche for itself, offering high-octane basketball, family-friendly entertainment and a strong community connection.
Dr. Coleman, Medical Director at UNF Health in Yulee, Florida, is the President of Business Operations for the Pride. Mr. Eakins, who owns Golden Age Innovations and is President of the DuBlasé Foundation in Jacksonville, serves as the Pride's President of Basketball Operations.
The team's general manager is Flossie Eakins, a retired Accounting Officer for the U.S. Navy, while Julian Williams, who previously served as Assistant Coach for the highly successful, but now defunct, Jacksonville Giants basketball team, is the Pride's Head Coach.
Currently ranked #9 in the ABA Top 25 Power Rankings, the Pride are undefeated this year with a 10-0 record. Their latest win came on Saturday against the St. Augustine Glory, 141-128 in Fernandina Beach. The high-scoring contest was close until the middle of the fourth quarter, when the Pride scored 7 points in the space of a few seconds on a series of steals and continued to pull away from the undermanned Glory.
The Pride boasts a roster of talented professional and former college athletes. They deliver an exciting brand of basketball, with thrilling dunks, dazzling crossovers and nail-biting finishes keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Their games are more than just basketball; they're community events, featuring a live DJ, halftime entertainment and opportunities to connect with the players.
The team's impact extends beyond the court. They actively participate in community initiatives, fostering youth development and promoting healthy lifestyles. Their commitment to social responsibility has garnered them widespread support and admiration.
The team has lined up an impressive array of sponsors, including Baptist Medical Center Nassau, Brooks Rehabilitation, Community First Credit Union, Coastal Spine and Pain Center, The Tavern by AIBC and DuBlasé Premium Whiskey.
While the Pride haven't yet secured an ABA championship, their journey has been impressive. They've overcome challenges, built a passionate fanbase and established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the league. With their dedication to excellence and community engagement, the Nassau Pride is poised for continued success in the world of professional basketball.
The Pride's next home game is February 17 at 6:00 pm. For ticket information or more about the team, click here.
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Saddle Up for Excitement at Flying G Rodeo in Hilliard, Florida
February 2, 2024
Staff, FIRST COAST SPORTS MEDIA
Dust off your boots and get ready for a rootin' tootin' good time at Flying G Rodeo, a hidden gem nestled in Hilliard, Florida. This family-owned operation offers a thrilling taste of Western tradition, attracting cowboys and city slickers alike.
First Coast Sports Media
Whether you're a seasoned rodeo enthusiast or a curious first-timer, Flying G promises an unforgettable experience. Witness heart-pounding action as professional riders test their grit against bucking broncos and snorting bulls. Cheer on nimble barrel racers as they weave through a challenging course, and gasp in awe at the agility of ropers snagging elusive calves.
But Flying G isn't just about adrenaline-pumping competition. It's also a place to soak up the unique atmosphere of rodeo culture. Live music fills the air, vendors offer delicious concessions, and friendly faces welcome you with Southern hospitality. Kids can even participate in mutton bustin' or a miniaturized rodeo, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Mark your calendars for their upcoming rodeo on February 16 & 17, featuring all the rodeo staples alongside live music and entertainment. Gates open at 6:00 PM. And don't miss the Professional Bull Riders "Unleash the Beast" competition coming to Jacksonville's Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena on February 23 and 24. Tickets available here.
Flying G Rodeo is more than just a show; it's a chance to connect with a cherished American tradition. So, saddle up your excitement and mosey on down to Hilliard for an experience that's as authentic as it is exhilarating.
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