The Rise of a Gator: From Quarterback to Omaha Landmark – Carter’s Corner

A Gators Quarterback, a Landmark Omaha Steakhouse, and the College World Series

Scott Carter / Senior Writer

OMAHA, Neb. — Some stories are too good to be true. Some tweets, too. That was my initial reaction when I saw a post on Twitter from @GatorJosh01 directed at former Gators quarterback Shane Matthews.

“@SMniner QB, been awhile, I wanted to let you and Gators fans know that one of the preferred walk on QBs at Florida is from Omaha, Parker Leise. Also, his family owns ‘The Drover Steakhouse’ there in Omaha for the last 50 years. Let’s keep it packed during the College World Series!”

Me: That can’t be true, can it? I’ve been to The Drover a few times over the years, have a few extra pounds to prove it, and plan to make a return visit after five years away.

Google: Dude, from what we have, it seems legit. Do some more research.

Me: Oh man, I’ve got to call this Parker Leise guy and get the scoop. This is my kind of story.

A Steakhouse Legacy

A few hours later, after an off-season workout back in Gainesville, Parker Leise answered his cell phone to discuss The Drover, the College World Series, and Omaha. Leise, a native of Omaha, finished high school at the IMG Academy in Bradenton and joined the Gators in January after impressing UF coaches on film and developing relationships with the recruiting staff.

“My grandfather started the restaurant, and it’s been in our family for 50 years,” Leise reassured. “My mom and her sister are the current owners.”

A “Must-Visit” during the College World Series

For those unfamiliar with how the College World Series overtakes Omaha this time of year, you should make a trip out one June and experience it yourself. The city opens its arms to visitors and college baseball, and for decades The Drover has been a favorite steakhouse for coaches, former players, administrators, and the media. Before my first trip to Omaha with the Gators in 2011, the most repeated suggestion I received from my media friends was to go to The Drover and order one of the whiskey filets. I went with a group of colleagues on the trip. We went back a second time before the trip was over.

Leise is no stranger to similar tales. “The College World Series is a special time of year for us. It’s the only time of the year we are open all day,” Leise said. “College baseball fans coming in from all over the nation, before and after games when they come in to eat, they will be tailgating in the parking lot waiting for their tables. It’s a really cool atmosphere. A lot of great people come in there. It’s just a great atmosphere, which also plays into the Nebraska steakhouse vibe. It all just goes together.”

A Legacy of Flavor

According to a recent story in the Omaha World-Herald about the history of legendary steakhouses in the city’s history, The Drover opened as the Cork ‘N Cleaver in 1970 and was renamed in 1977. Over the years, it became a favorite thanks to juicy steaks, walls adorned with Western art, and top-notch service. Robert Anderson, Leise’s maternal grandfather, founded the restaurant. When he died in 2014, Leise’s mother, Amy Leise, and her sister Wendy Anderson took ownership. Leise’s father, Daryl Leise, has been the general manager since 2019.

“I’ve not officially worked there because of high school football. I was super busy with that,” Leise said. “Working there and being part of the Drover is something I look forward to in the future. We’re looking to continue on the traditions. It has served us so well and has served much of the community so well, especially baseball fans.”

A Love for Baseball and the Gators

Leise plays football, but the 6-foot-2, 215-pound freshman is also a big baseball fan. He planned to fly home Friday to catch the start of the College World Series and return to UF on Sunday night. He plans to return to Omaha for the final weekend of the tournament. “I’ll catch the beginning and end of it,” he said. “I’m definitely all-Gators. We love the College World Series. It’s a great time of year.”

Conclusion

Parker Leise’s connection to The Drover Steakhouse adds a unique twist to the College World Series in Omaha. The family-owned restaurant has become a cultural landmark and a favorite gathering spot for baseball fans and Gators enthusiasts during the tournament. The combination of great food, a vibrant atmosphere, and the legacy of the Leise family has made The Drover a must-visit destination for anyone attending the College World Series. It’s a story that epitomizes the love for sports, family, and community that makes events like the College World Series so special.