The Old Dominion-VCU rivalry is considered the best college hoops rivalry in the Commonwealth of Virginia and has been played regularly since 1969. VCU holds a slim 49-43 lead in the all-time series, but you’re always in for a good one when these two rivals meet so make sure to get your tickets when the Rams come to town.
Old Dominion Monarchs Stadium Guide
In Game
Old Dominion is one of the best basketball schools in Conference USA and an excellent Conference USA road trip destination. The Monarchs many tournament appearances and Colonial Athletic Association championships have helped build a rabid fan base around the team. Monarchs fans go all out on game days to support their team, and you’ll find a great atmosphere inside the Chartaway Arena.
The cheer and dance teams, as well as the Monarch Pep Band, also add to the incredible atmosphere at an ODU game. The pep band and cheer squads rally the crowd throughout the game, and you won’t want to miss your chance to take part in the Ice Cream and Cake Dance.
In addition to a lively atmosphere, you’ll also find some great tributes to the Monarchs past. The main lobby is home to a hall of fame where you can see a wide variety of trophies won by the Monarchs over the years. The Chartaway Arena is also home to lots of banners celebrating the basketball program’s rich history as well, so take some time to view it all before the game starts.
Finally, those of you looking to get the most out of your trip will want to explore downtown Norfolk. Downtown you’ll find a great selection of bars and restaurants to try including Freemason Abbey and Shula’s 347 Grill.
A trip to see an Old Dominion basketball game is a fantastic time for any college hoops fan looking to explore the best that Conference USA has to offer.
Stop by the ODU Hall of Fame in the main lobby to see all of the championship trophies won by the Monarchs over the years. The Hall of Fame is a must-see for any college sports fan, so make sure to check it out during your visit.
The banners hanging up at the Chartway Arena celebrate the best players and teams in Monarchs history. You can see banners honoring Monarchs greats including Dave Twardzik and Mark West, so take a moment to remember all of your favorite ODU players of the past.
Big Blue
Big Blue is a lion mascot that can be found at every Old Dominion home basketball game. He is a fan favorite due to his wild antics and is sure to put a smile on your face when attending a game at the Chartway Arena.
The Monarch Pep Band is a staple of game days since then pumping up the crowd with their renditions of the school’s fight songs. The band plays a large role in creating the atmosphere that has made the Chartway Arena a tough place for opponents to play, so enjoy their musical stylings during the game.
Charles the Monarch is a labradoodle that looks just like a lion and can be seen at all Old Dominion games. Keep your eyes peeled for this famous dog when attending an ODU game to get the most out of your game day experience.
Ice Cream and Cake
During the under eight-minute timeout, the everyone performs the Ice Cream and Cake dance. Join in on the fun tradition and show off your ODU pride when attending a Monarchs basketball game.
Fight Songs
Fight, Old Dominion!
Fight song
Fight, Old Dominion,
Your courage roars!
Fight, Old Dominion,
Your valor soars!
Blue and Silver worn with pride,
We’ve got the Spirit right here on our side!
Hail, Old Dominion,
Your courage roars!
Hail, Old Dominion,
Your valor soars!
Old Dominion
GO BIG BLUE!
Our Victory Lives on in YOU!
Old Dominion, Hail
Alma mater
Hail to thee our Alma Mater
Blue and Silver, hail!
By the ocean’s billows flying
See them proudly sail!
University young and strong,
We lift our voices in this song,
This our Song of Alma Mater,
Old Dominion, hail!
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