Changing of the Guard: A New Era Begins at Doak Campbell Stadium
This fall, a significant change is coming to Doak Campbell Stadium's game-day experience. After 17 seasons, the iconic voice of Woody Hayes will no longer be heard delivering the famous "And that's good for another Florida State..." before the crowd erupts with "FIRST DOWN!" The Seminoles have decided to replace the longtime public address announcer, who has been a staple at Florida State games for many fans.
Woody Hayes' voice has been synonymous with Saturdays in Tallahassee, alongside other traditions like tailgating, the War Chant, and Chief Osceola's entrance onto the field. Hayes has been the voice of both the women's and men's basketball teams in addition to football, making him a familiar presence at Florida State sporting events.
The decision to move in a different direction regarding the public address announcer has not been publicly explained by FSU. As the university has yet to announce Hayes' replacement for the upcoming 2026 season, the anticipation and speculation among fans are high.
Whoever takes on the role of rallying the crowd on game days will step into a position that has become an integral part of the stadium's atmosphere and gameday experience. While the voice may change, the spirit and excitement of Doak Campbell Stadium will endure.
Since 2010, Hayes has been the voice of football at Florida State, but now a new public address announcer will step into the spotlight. This individual will become one of the most recognizable voices associated with Seminoles football, guiding fans through player introductions, in-game announcements, and contributing to the overall energy inside the stadium on home Saturdays.
The upcoming season opener against New Mexico State will mark the debut of the new public address announcer, signaling the start of a new era at Doak Campbell Stadium. As the Seminoles gear up for another season, the anticipation of hearing the new voice and witnessing the evolution of this long-standing game-day tradition adds to the excitement surrounding Florida State football.