Rival Team: Charlotte 49ers, Marshall Thundering Herd
Having moved to Conference USA from the Colonial Conference in 2014 Old Dominion is still developing its major in-conference rivalries. However, UNC-Charlotte and Marshall have emerged as the frontrunners. If you’re coming to Norfolk for a game, then target one of these matchups to experience some of the better Monarchs game day experiences.
Monarchs Tailgate Guide
Atmosphere
Despite being a relatively new football program Old Dominion has a very strong tailgate scene. On game days you’ll find fans littered all around campus dressed in slate blue and silver drinking, eating, and having fun as they prepare to cheer on the Monarchs to victory.
There is a strong sense of camaraderie between Monarchs fans, which you can see very clearly on game days. The fans here all are very welcoming to everyone regardless of your team affiliation, as Southern Hospitality is on full display when attending a game in Norfolk.
There is also plenty of Monarch’s pride on display as before the game you’ll be entertained by both the band and cheer team, who work everyone up into a frenzy. Put on your slate blue and silver and head on down to S.B. Ballard Stadium to experience one of the hidden gems of college football.
Located in the Webb Center, this statue of the school’s lion mascot Big Blue is only a short walk from S.B. Ballard Stadium. On your way to the stadium stop by and snap a picture with this statue and don’t forget to rub its belly to give the Monarchs good luck on the field.
You won’t want to miss the band and cheer team’s pregame pep rally, which is an excellent way to get into the game day mood. The pep rally takes place a couple hours before the game and is a must-see for anyone tailgating at ODU.
The grassy area offers the perfect place to set up a tailgate. The lots around S.B. Ballard Stadium are donor lots, so Kaufman Mall offers the perfect place for those who don’t have a parking pass to tailgate. Here you’ll be able to set up a tent and grill and get in on the tailgate atmosphere that makes attending a Monarchs football game such a great experience.
Where to tailgate
Kauffman MallThe grassy area offers the perfect place to set up a tailgate. The lots around S.B. Ballard Stadium are donor lots, so Kaufman Mall offers the perfect place for those who don’t have a parking pass to tailgate. Here you’ll be able to set up a tent and grill and get in on the tailgate atmosphere that makes attending a Monarchs football game such a great experience.
Donor LotsOn gamedays, the parking lots around S.B. Ballard Stadium are filled with Old Dominion fans decked out in slate blue and silver. If you have a parking pass, all you have to do is find a spot and set up the grill, and you’ll be in for a great time.
ODU Tailgate CentralIf you’re looking for a great tailgate party to join then ODU Tailgate Central has you covered. This group loves to tailgate and cheer on the Monarchs so stop by and join in on the pregame festivities when attending a game in Norfolk.
Monarchs Stadium Guide
In Game
Old Dominion is one of the newest programs in NCAA football. However, that hasn’t stopped the fans from showing up in full force to support their team. Since the program was restarted in 2009, the fans have sold out every home game the Monarchs have played making them one of the best-supported teams in the country.
The rabid Old Dominion fans fill a packed S.B. Ballard Stadium creating an excellent atmosphere that is unique to Old Dominion. You’ll hear the fans loud and proud throughout the game regardless of the score, as Old Dominion football has quickly become the most popular sports team in Norfolk. Join in on the sea of slate blue and silver and cheer on the Monarchs to victory with thousands of other fans when attending an Old Dominion game.
The team plays at historic S.B. Ballard Stadium, which opened in 1936 as home to the original Monarchs football program. You’ll be able to feel the aura of the stadium the old stadium that makes you feel like you’re somewhere special where history could be made at any moment.
You’ll have a blast taking in a game at historic S.B. Ballard Stadium where the fans are among some of the most dedicated in the country and provide an excellent home field advantage for the Monarchs.
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
The 200 member band was formed in 2008 in response to the creation of the football program. The band has become a staple of game days since then pumping up the crowd with their renditions of the school’s fight songs and their excellent halftime performances. Make sure to stay glued to your seat at halftime to watch their outstanding show.
Big Blue is a lion mascot that can be found at every Old Dominion home football 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 S.B. Ballard Stadium.
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!
Victory for Old Dominion
Football fight song
Victory for Old Dominion Never know defeat! Fight hard for Old Dominion! Tremble at our feet! Touchdown! for Old Dominion Silver and the blue! Onward to victory! For the sons of ODU! Victory for Old Dominion Never know defeat! Fight hard for Old Dominion! Tremble at our feet! Touchdown! for Old Dominion Silver and the blue! Onward to victory! O! D! U! M-O-N-A-R-C-H-S!
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!
Whether you like hard smoked and hand pulled pork shoulder in a tangy vinegar sauce or slow smoked brisket sliced thick and grilled with hickory sauce, MOJO BONES has it for you.
Streats is a place to enjoy international street foods in a relaxed social setting. Creations combine the best locally harvested and sustainable choices along with unique and innovative international ingredients.
We love Norfolk, we love BBQ, and we love to nosh. We're combining our love of these things and opened Small's Smokehouse + Oyster Bar at 2700 Hampton Blvd., Norfolk.
Inspired by good food and rock ’n’ roll. Chef-owner-musician Stephen Marsh creates simple dishes sourced from food at peak season from the freshest purveyors.
At Del Vecchio's we seek out the finest ingredients available, and deliver them fresh. Our pizzas are prepared with passion, and baked to perfection for your enjoyment!
Locally owned and operated Hair of the dog serves up a delightful spin on classic comfort foods and traditional breakfast offerings that will keep you coming back for more.
Watch video
