1. Marchdown
Get to your seat early as you won’t want to miss the Marchdown. The Marchdown takes place 20 minutes before the game when the Corp of Cadets begins marching on the field, so don’t miss it during your trip to VMI.
2. Cannon
After every Keydets score, the cannon is fired. The cannon lets everyone in the area know the Keydets just scored, so even if you aren’t at the game you’ll know when VMI put points on the board.
3. Military Classic of the South
The Military Classic of the South takes place each year between The Citadel and VMI. The two schools first met in 1920 making it the 13th oldest rivalry in the FCS. Extra bragging rights were added to the rivalry in 1976 when the winner started taking home the Silver Shako. You won’t want to miss VMI try to halt the Bulldogs 10 game winning streak, so make sure to be in attendance for the Military Classic of the South.
4. Corp of Cadets Parade
The Corp of Cadets Parade starts three hours before kickoff and is a must-see part of the pregame festivities at VMI. Whether you’re a Keydets fan or not you won’t want to miss this time-honored tradition during your visit to Lexington.
5. Kids Zone
The Kids Zone is located on the south end of the stadium and features inflatables and other kids activities. If you’re bringing the little ones to the game, then make sure to stop by the Kids Zone.
6. VMI-Richmond Rivalry
The rivalry between VMI and nearby Richmond began in 1893. Early on the Keydets dominated winning 12 of the first 14 matches, but since then the Spiders have exacted their revenge and now lead the all-time series 45-40-5. Come out and watch the Keydets narrow the gap when these two Virginia-based rivals square off.
7. Pushups
Following every Keydets score, the Freshmen, or Rats, do pushups. The pushups are a fun part of every game, so keep an eye out for the Rats after every VMI score.
8. VMI-William & Mary Rivalry
While the Keydets and Tribe haven’t played since 2011, you won’t want to miss it when the longstanding rivalry between VMI and William & Mary is renewed. The rivalry dates back to 1905, and the two teams have 88 times over the years making it one of the Keydets’ oldest and longest-running rivalries.
