The memes are real. And this Saturday, so is the momentum.
Kentucky Football’s Spring Showcase, presented by Kroger, is set for Saturday, April 12 at 10 a.m. ET at Kroger Field. The event is free, open to the public, and packed with energy—and if you’ve been around the Big Blue internet for long, you know this already smells like a Motivated Mark Stoops kind of day.
A spring showcase with Stoops swag
Let’s talk about the memes.
A few years ago, “Motivated Mark Stoops” started circulating on social media—a no-nonsense, fiery version of Kentucky’s longtime head coach that fans have embraced with love, laughter, and just enough irony. It captured the look of a coach who meant business after a big loss or a big recruiting win.
Then came the spinoff: “Mark Stoops has a plan.” That one’s grown legs too, often being kind of a backhanded compliment to the tenured head coach.
With Stoops now in year 13 and facing a pivotal 2025 season, those memes feel more relevant than ever.
Spring showcase details
According to UK Athletics, the Spring Showcase won’t be a traditional game—but fans will still get plenty of access. The event will feature practice segments, interactive elements, and a chance to get up close with the new-look Wildcats.
🕙 Time: 10 a.m. ET
🚪 Gates Open: 9 a.m.
📍 Location: Kroger Field
💵 Admission: Free
🅿️ Parking: Free in Red, Green, Blue, and Orange lots
Seating and stadium info
Lower sideline sections will be open for general admission seating.
End zones and upper decks will be closed due to prep for the upcoming Tyler Childers concert.
ADA seating will be available between Sections 35–40.
Sections 25–27 (Club Level), Loge Level, and designated team blocks will be reserved.
There will be no live stream or broadcast, but coverage will roll out on UK’s social channels and SEC Network in the coming weeks. Though no exact date has been given.
Fans can also check out the UK Team Shop near Gate 3, and ticket reps will be on-site for anyone interested in season ticket packages.
Tailgates, tickets, and Tyler Childers
Fans who want the full game day experience can explore turnkey tailgate packages through REVELxp, with options just steps from the stadium.
Why this spring game matters
With Zach Calzada at QB, a revamped receiver group, and Bush Hamdan back for year two as OC, this spring has been all about building chemistry—and rebounding from a frustrating 2024.
Saturday’s Showcase won’t settle any debates, but it’ll give fans a look at what’s cooking in the oven, and not at Jeff Ruby's. And let’s be honest, we all need something to cheer for when it comes to football.
Motivated Mark Stoops is back. And so is Kentucky Football.