Florida coach Kevin O’Sullivan has been suspended by the NCAA following his heated actions during the Conway Regional, which sparked major controversy. The ruling comes after his on-field blowup drew heavy criticism, with the NCAA emphasizing accountability and sportsmanship. O’Sullivan will serve his suspension as postseason play continues.

Florida head coach Kevin O’Sullivan has received a three-game suspension from the NCAA after his outburst during the Conway Regional. The penalty, announced Friday in a public reprimand, will extend into the start of the 2026 season, forcing O’Sullivan to miss the Gators’ first three contests.

The controversy dates back to an elimination game against East Carolina in the spring, when O’Sullivan clashed with NCAA site officials and Coastal Carolina staff over the early start time. Cameras captured him animated and visibly frustrated before the first pitch, and the video quickly spread, fueling criticism that ultimately led to the NCAA’s disciplinary action.

There was little for Kevin O’Sullivan to take pride in on the field that day either. Florida fell to East Carolina, a loss that ended their season after what had been an impressive turnaround during the latter half of SEC play.

The Gators managed just one NCAA Tournament victory, coming against Fairfield, while East Carolina handed them both of their eliminations. The disappointing finish only added to the frustration surrounding the Conway Regional incident and its aftermath.

Kevin O’Sullivan recently closed out his 18th season in Gainesville, having first taken over the Florida program in 2008. His 19th year at the helm will begin on an unusual note, as he won’t be on the field for the Gators’ opening games.

It’s rare to see disciplinary actions from one season roll over into the next, but O’Sullivan will serve his suspension stemming from the Conway Regional incident. The punishment ensures Florida’s longtime coach starts the upcoming campaign on the sidelines.