Pensacola Sports has big news on two fronts: the SEC Women’s Soccer Tournament is returning with an expanded format this November, and longtime CEO Ray Palmer has announced his intention to step down after a remarkable tenure that has transformed the organization.
Tournament Expands to Four Days
The 2025 SEC Women’s Soccer Tournament kicks off on Sunday, November 2 with a significantly expanded format.
Twelve Southeastern Conference women’s teams will clash for the 2025 SEC Championship from Sunday, Nov. 2 through Sunday, Nov. 9, at Ashton Brosnaham Soccer Complex in Pensacola, Fla.
According to Palmer, Pensacola’s advantages over the previous Orange Beach location are clear. “The sheer numbers that we can produce with the community, our size versus a small beach community of Orange Beach and the passionate, passionate southern SEC fan base across the conference, which really makes us attractive.”
- The CEO emphasized that Pensacola has become a melting pot for SEC sports enthusiasts, with alumni associations from across the conference regularly gathering to watch games throughout football season. That passionate fan base extends to women’s soccer, where SEC teams consistently rank among the nation’s best.
The quality of play will be exceptional. “I believe Arkansas, as of the last time I checked, was the top two or three in the country, I believe, and is leading the SEC,” Palmer said. He also noted the depth of the conference, pointing out that even powerhouse programs like the University of Florida haven’t yet qualified for the tournament during Pensacola’s hosting years.
Family-Friendly Event with Affordable Tickets
All-tournament passes are on sale now at $46. Individual session tickets go on sale October 1. Visit PensacolaSports.org for full details to purchase tickets and learn about special promotions. A clear bag policy is in effect.
Fan Fest returns on championship day, Nov. 9, starting at 11:30 a.m., with music, food trucks, and interactive activities for all ages before the final match.
The event particularly targets young soccer players. Local Escambia County schools attend games free on Tuesday.
- Palmer emphasized the importance of inspiring the next generation: “We really want the youth soccer, which is a very powerful sport in our community, to embrace this event.”
A Bittersweet Announcement
On a more personal note, Palmer revealed his plans to step down from Pensacola Sports.
- “I turned 67 last week and Susan’s retired and I want to do some other things that require less of my day-to-day,” he shared. “It’s time for us to go find some new young blood that can take the Pensacola sports to the next level.”
Palmer reflected on his journey with the organization. “Pensacola Sports has given me an opportunity that nowhere else,” Palmer shared. “I have loved every minute of this job.”
- Under his leadership, Pensacola Sports has evolved into a nationally recognized sports tourism powerhouse, securing major contracts with the Sunbelt Conference, SEC, and NAIA.
Looking ahead, Palmer remains optimistic about the industry’s future. “All indications about the industry tracks up,” he said, noting that sports tourism continues to grow nationally, with Florida maintaining its position as the number one state for sports tourism.
- As Pensacola prepares to host another exciting SEC Women’s Soccer Tournament, the community celebrates both the event’s success and Palmer’s transformative legacy.
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