The Orlando Apollos were a professional team in the Alliance of American Football (AAF) that brought excitement to Florida’s football fans. Established in 2018, the Orlando Apollos football team quickly became one of the strongest franchises in the Orlando Apollos AAF, known for their dynamic offense, loyal supporters, and memorable performances throughout their debut season.
Established
2018
City
Orlando
League History
2019 / Alliance of American Football
Team History
2019 / Orlando Apollos
Nickname
Apollos – The Orlando Apollos have quickly become one of the most popular teams in the Alliance of American Football (AAF). With their electric offense, passionate fans, and a fun nickname to boot – it’s no wonder they’ve made such an impact. But what exactly is behind this unique moniker?
Orlando Apollos Origin
As it turns out, there is some fascinating history behind the name “Apollos.” The team was named for Apollo High School in Orlando, which has existed since 1952. The school was originally known as Orange Blossom Trail Junior-Senior High School before being renamed after Greek god Apollo in 1956 due to its proximity to NASA's Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
In addition to honoring its local heritage with this name choice, many symbolic ties between football and ancient mythology are associated with Apollo himself – making him an ideal mascot for a sports team! In classical mythology, he was seen as a warrior god who could bring victory on the battlefield or playing field and as a patron of music & poetry - qualities that can be found in any excellent game day atmosphere! It seems like these two aspects combined to make him a perfect representation of Florida's space exploration past and its bright sporting future as we advance too!
Championship
AAF Championships 0
Stadium
2019 / Spectrum Stadium
Owner
2019 / Alliance of American Football
Coach
2019 / Steve Spurrier
*Blue is this team’s history
- 2018
- 2018
- 2019
- 2019
- 2019
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Apollos Team Formation
The Orlando Apollos was a professional American football franchise based in Orlando, Florida, and one of the eight members of the Alliance of American Football (AAF), which began play in February 2019. The team played its home games at Spectrum Stadium on the campus of the University of Central Florida. They were coached by Heisman Trophy winner and former college ... -
Orlando Apollos first Coach
Apollos were coached by Heisman Trophy winner and former college and National Football League (NFL) head coach Steve Spurrier -
Apollos First Game
On February 9, 2019, the team’s first game was played at home against the Atlanta Legends where they won 40–6. -
Apollos team played its home games at Spectrum Stadium
In 2019, The Orlando Apollos team played its home games at Spectrum Stadium on the campus of the University of Central Florida -
AAF and Apollos file Chapter 7
On April 2, 2019, the league’s football operations were reportedly suspended, and on April 4 the league allowed players to leave their contracts to sign with NFL teams. The league filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy on April 17, 2019. After the league’s suspension of football operations, head coach Spurrier, by virtue of the team’s league-leading record, stated, “we’ve got to ...
Orlando Apollos History
The Orlando Apollos were a professional Orlando Apollos football team that competed in the AAF (Alliance of American Football). Founded in 2018 and based in Orlando, Florida, the team played its home games at Spectrum Stadium on the University of Central Florida campus. From the start, the Apollos captured fans’ attention with their fast-paced offense and passionate community support, quickly becoming one of the league’s most recognized teams.
The Orlando Apollos football team made a strong statement in their inaugural 2019 season. Under the leadership of head coach Steve Spurrier and quarterback Garrett Gilbert, the Orlando Apollos AAF team opened the season with six consecutive victories. Their high-powered offense and disciplined defense helped them secure an impressive 8–1 record before the AAF suspended operations. Though the league’s early closure prevented postseason play, the Orlando Apollos were declared unofficial league champions due to having the best record at the time.
Following their success, the Orlando Apollos football team became a symbol of pride in Central Florida. The team’s logo and colors were embraced by fans across the state, seen on jerseys, hats, and banners throughout Orlando. Their professional approach and entertaining style left a lasting mark on the short-lived Orlando Apollos AAF era. The team’s commitment to teamwork, sportsmanship, and community involvement further strengthened their legacy among football enthusiasts.
Apollos Achievements
Unofficial AAF Champions (2019)
The Orlando Apollos dominated the Orlando Apollos AAF season, finishing with the best record at 8–1 before league operations were halted. Their consistent performance and league-best offense made them the unofficial champions of the 2019 AAF season — a remarkable feat for a new franchise.
Coaching Excellence Under Steve Spurrier
Head coach Steve Spurrier’s leadership was a key part of the Orlando Apollos football success. Spurrier’s offensive expertise helped quarterback Garrett Gilbert lead the league in passing yards, and the team consistently outperformed their rivals. His efforts earned recognition as AAF Coach of the Year, further solidifying the Orlando Apollos place in football history.