Celebrating the Gatorade legacy at the University of Florida

Gatorade continues to help define the UF College of Medicine.

By: Karen Dooley
Dr. Cade with football player UF Digital Collections

Hear Dr. Cade discuss Gatorade and Florida football

Audio courtesy of UF's Samuel Proctor Oral History Program
“The Gatorade legacy is stronger than ever at the University of Florida, most specifically at the College of Medicine”
Drs. Alejandro de Quesada, J. Robert Cade, Jim Free and Dana Shires Brian Smith

Hear Dr. Free discuss how Gatorade got its name

Audio courtesy of UF's Samuel Proctor Oral History Program
  1. June 1, 1965
    Born in the Lab

    In early summer of 1965, a University of Florida assistant coach sat down with a team of university physicians and asked them to determine why so many of his players were being affected by heat and heat related illnesses.

  2. June 30, 1965
    Proven on the Field

    Soon after the researchers introduced their Gatorade formula to the team, the Gators began winning… outlasting a number of heavily favored opponents in the withering heat and finishing the season at 7–4.

  3. July 2, 1969
    Orange Bowl to Super Bowl

    In the summer of 1969, Coach Ray Graves of the Florida Gators suggested to the Kansas City Chiefs that they use Gatorade to combat the staggering effects of a blistering Missouri sun during training camp. The Chiefs were so impressed with the “Gator coach's aid” that they kept it on their sidelines throughout the entire season.

  4. June 9, 2016
    Today & Tomorrow

    From the lab testing of athletes, to new flavor and delivery system development, to the publication and distribution of scientific research, the Gatorade Company and the GSSI perpetually strive to advance their collective mission of enabling athletes to always perform at their peak.

Listen to Dr. Shires discuss the birth of Gatorade

Audio courtesy of UF's Samuel Proctor Oral History Program
“They helped create an environment at UF where curiosity and innovation are encouraged.”
Michael L. Good, MD
Dean, UF College of Medicine

Gatorade through the years

Celebrating 50 years of Gatorade

Learn how Gatorade continues to help move research forward at UF