Robert Cade invented Gatorade in 1965 while working at the University of Florida to help replenish athletes who were losing fluids and electrolytes. It was named after the Florida Gators football team and first gained widespread popularity after its success in hydrating the Gators during the 1967 Orange Bowl. Gatorade has since become a popular sports drink used to replenish fluids and electrolytes lost through sweat during exercise or athletic performance.