JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Good news sports fans! There's a big game coming to town.
The Florida Gators basketball team will play the Georgetown Hoyas at a place few teams have played before, on board an Naval Aircraft Carrier.
Mayor Alvin Brown announced it Friday at City Hall, "Jacksonville will be the site of the 2012 Navy-Marine Corps Classic."
Standing next to the Mayor was Secretary of the Navy, Ray Mabus, who said the game is a way for civilians to connect with the military. And a way for veterans and active duty troops to be recognized for their service.
"Fewer than one percent of our country today serves in uniform. And the Navy and the Marine Corps are America's away teams," said Mabus.
Last year's game between Michigan State and North Carolina was played on a carrier off San Diego. Mabus called it one of the most unique and most watched games in basketball history. Now, Mayport will be in the spotlight.
"This is truly a unique event that's going to put a spotlight on Jacksonville and fans all around the world," said Mayor Brown.
The game will be Friday, November 9th, the day after the nationally televised Jaguars game against the Colts. And the day before the Veterans Day Parade.
On which carrier the game will be played, and how fans can watch it live, hasn't yet been decided.
