News Summary
Old Dominion University is set to host the Priority Charity Bowl ODU Spring Game on April 19th at Kornblau Field, offering a day full of family-friendly activities. The event is free to all fans and will feature a variety of interactive experiences, including autograph sessions with ODU athletes and a chance to win exclusive fan packs. This year marks the 56th anniversary of the Charity Bowl, aiming to benefit children’s charities in Hampton Roads. With exciting developments for the upcoming football season, this event promises fun for every Monarch supporter.
Norfolk Prepares for a Spectacular Spring Showdown!
Get excited, folks! The sun is shining a little brighter in Norfolk as Old Dominion University gears up for the highly anticipated Priority Charity Bowl ODU Spring Game, which is set to kick off on Saturday, April 19, at 2 p.m. This thrilling event will take place at the shining Kornblau Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium and is absolutely FREE for all fans! So gather your friends and family and make a day of it!
Mark Your Calendars!
Gates will swing open at 1 p.m., giving you a head start to find the perfect seats on the east side of the stadium. Remember, complimentary parking awaits you in the Red Garage at the corner of 49th Street and Bluestone Avenue. Make sure to enter through the southeast gate to soak up all the excitement of the day!
Family Fun Awaits!
But wait, there’s more! After the game, ODU is launching its very first Fan Field Day. This is not just about football; it’s a family-friendly affair filled with interactive experiences. Whether you’re a die-hard Monarchs supporter or just looking for a fun outing, this day is for everyone. You’ll have the chance to rub shoulders with ODU Football players and coaches, along with student-athletes from ODU Men’s Basketball and Women’s Tennis.
Activities Galore!
On Fan Field Day, fans can enjoy exciting autograph sessions, snap photos, and participate in lively on-field activities. Oh, and don’t miss out on winning exclusive ODU fan packs—what a fantastic way to show your Monarch pride! Plus, be sure to look out for the limited-edition ODU Football Spring Game posters, which will be available while supplies last. You won’t want to miss adding this unique piece to your collection!
Something for the Seasoned Fans!
If you’re a current ODU football season ticket holder, you’re in for a treat! A 20% merchandise discount awaits you at the ODU Bookstore tent inside the southeast gate. And for those wanting to carry a piece of ODU with them, the exclusive 2025 ODU Football Tradition Tee will be on sale at the bookstore during the event.
Charity with a Legacy
It’s worth noting that this year marks the 56th anniversary of the Charity Bowl, recognized as America’s longest-running charity football game. An impressive achievement, the event aims to raise funds for children’s charities in Hampton Roads. Last year, the Charity Bowl set a record by raising over $800,000 for various charities—talk about making a difference!
Looking Ahead to Fall
As we look ahead, don’t forget that football season ticket renewals are already in full swing, with new tickets available for purchase. The 2024 season opener is on Saturday, August 31, against South Carolina, kicking off at 4:15 p.m. on the SEC Network. This will be the first-ever matchup between ODU and South Carolina, marking ODU’s first game against an SEC opponent since 2013.
What to Expect from the Monarchs
Last season, ODU finished with a record of 6-7 and made their second bowl game appearance in three years. They had quite the roller coaster with 11 one-score games, finishing 6-5 overall in those nail-biters. With returning stars like linebacker Jason Henderson, who led the nation in tackles per game for the second consecutive season, the Monarchs are aiming to make a splash this year!
Coaching Staff Changes
In exciting news, ODU Head Coach Ricky Rahne has added two new assistant coaches from Tennessee: David Weeks (tight ends) and Kody Cook (wide receivers). The Monarchs are also welcoming 57 newcomers to the roster, including 28 transfers—significantly bolstering their team’s chances this season!
The next game on the calendar is against East Carolina on September 7 at 6 p.m. on ESPN+, coinciding with the exciting Hall of Fame Weekend and an induction ceremony on September 6. It’s an exciting time to be a Monarch!
So grab your gear, rally your troops, and get ready for a phenomenal spring game. It’s going to be a day full of fun, football, and family that you won’t want to miss!
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Additional Resources
- Old Dominion Sports: ODU at South Carolina Preview
- JMU Sports: Dukes Head to Norfolk to Face ODU
- ECU Pirates: East Carolina Challenges ODU
- WAVY: ODU Football Gears Up for First Thursday Night Game
- Wikipedia: Old Dominion University
- Google Search: Old Dominion University football
- Google News: Old Dominion University
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Old Dominion University
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
