Tampa Bay Metro Magazine

The Glazer family owns two of the world’s largest sports franchises in the world – The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Manchester United. In Tampa, the family turned around the sports franchise and created the Glazer Family Foundation donating millions of dollars to the Bay area. Most recently, the foundation donated $5 million toward the construction of the Glazer Children’s Museum set to open on Sept. 25, 2010. “When we first heard about the Children’s Museum, we knew instantly that we wanted to get involved,” said Glazer. “With 14 nieces and nephews, our family will be spending lots of time there.”

With the regular football season for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers kicking off on Sept. 12 against the Cleveland Browns, Glazer is excited and ready for the season to begin. “After each victory, we greet and congratulate our players as they enter the locker room,” said Brian Glazer. “It is a tremendous feeling that we look forward to enjoying each Sunday.”

The Glazer family purchased the Bucs franchise in 1995 and now Bryan is entering the 16th season as co-chairman along with brothers Edward and Joel. The brothers oversee the day-to-day operation of the entire franchise, including financial operations and marketing and communications. Bryan, who holds a bachelor degree in broadcast communications from American University, and a law degree from Whittier College of Law, was instrumental in revitalizing and rebuilding the brand. Metro recently had the opportunity to chat with Bryan Glazer, 45, and learned a few of his favorite hot spots in Tampa Bay.

Metro: Did you play sports as a child?

Glazer: Growing up, I played little league baseball and soccer. I also played ice hockey on my neighbor's frozen pond in upstate New York. I have also been a skier since I was a kid.

M: I know you are very charitable, what are your local favorites?

G: There are so many great charities, including Ronald McDonald House, United Way, Tampa Museum of Art, Kids Charity of Tampa Bay, Ophelia Project and the Lukemia & Lymphoma Society.

M: Did you have any interesting trips this summer?

G: I traveled to Spain for a week and Las Vegas for a couple of days. I travel so much for work, it's just nice to be home when I can
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M: Do you have any hobbies? What do you do in your “free” time?

G: I enjoy biking, going to the movies, taking the boat out, and trying new restaurants. Mostly doing anything that involves spending time with my friends. I want to get certified for scuba diving, but I've been saying that for 10 years now.

M: What is a favorite thing about the area?

G: The best thing about the area is the people here. The Bay area has all the amenities of a big city with a smaller town feel. People are just nicer here. Amazing beaches doesn't hurt either.

M: What are some of your favorite places to eat in the Bay area?

G: My regular spots these days are 717 South, Zelda's, and all the Ciccio places in Tampa. And, of course, Bern's and Malio's. In St. Pete, Cassis and Red Mesa Cantina.

M: What’s your daily drive?

G: I'm driving a Maserati GranTurismo Convertible and a Land Rover Range Rover, depending on whether we are having one of our trademark afternoon thunderstorms or not.

M: What is on your iPod play list?

G: I'm all over the board on music. On my iPod right now, it’s U2, Rihanna, Black Eyed Peas, Elton John, Coldplay, Diana Krall, Jem, Sara Bareilles, Jewel, 10th Concession, and Lady Gaga.

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