Jayvon Gilmore's trip to Orlando last weekend was a memorable one.
The Class of 2026 quarterback from Columbia, S.C. was invited to attend UCF's home finale against Houston and got some special news right before kickoff.
"A few weeks ago I spoke to (UCF Director of Player Personnel) Mr. Cory Giddings," Gilmore said. "We've had some great conversations. He said they've checked out my film and wanted to get me down there as soon as possible. So we went down for UCF's game against Houston, the last game of the season.
"Before the game, I had an amazing conversation with (offensive coordinator) Coach (Darin) Hinshaw. He was basically telling me how their offense works and how I'd be a good fit. He said they loved my arm strength and what I did on film, how I'm a leader on the field, just the total package.
"(Hinshaw) said they were offering, which is just a huge blessing. I was very excited. He said they're very excited to see how I continue to develop."
UCF is Gilmore's sixth offer and first from a Power Five program, joining Miami (Ohio), Austin Peay, Sewanee, South Carolina State and Troy.
Gilmore also met head coach Gus Malzahn.
"Coach Malzahn was amazing," Gilmore said. "He recruited Cam Newton. He welcomed me with open arms. He said they were excited to have me there."
Gilmore said he loved the experience in the Bounce House and will definitely be back for another visit in the spring.
"The environment was great," Gilmore said. "I'm definitely coming back in the spring and probably next summer for camp too. I really enjoyed myself at UCF."
A first-year starter at Ben Lippen High School, Gilmore passed for 1,767 yards with 22 touchdowns during his sophomore season. He's already 6-foot-5 with plenty room to fill out at 190 pounds. He said he's been growing about an inch a year since the sixth grade.
"I think I had a pretty good year," Gilmore said. "We fell short in the first round of the playoffs, but we had a pretty young team. Most of our starters were sophomores."
