College Football ProgramsOld Dominion Monarchs Gridiron Traditions and History | The successful football program of Old Dominion University has made the students, faculty, alums, and fans proud to support them at home and away games. 'Bama has an excellent tradition of quality pigskin play and is a perennial contender for their respective conference title.
College Football Programs
On the following pages, we will cover aspects of the team, which may include the Program's Origin, the Biggest Games in School History, the Program's Top Players, the Most Significant Coaches, the Program's Logo and Mascot History, the team's Helmet Designs Over Time, and so much more.
Move forward into the school's Gridiron history on this page!
✦ [b]Isaiah Spencer (TE, 2020-present): Versatile tight end with impressive receiving stats and a key player for the Monarchs' recent success. Holds the ODU record for most receiving yards by a tight end.
Early Days and Gridiron Beginnings (1936-1961):
Initially christened "Norfolk Stadium," the venue opened in 1936 with the University of Virginia facing the College of William & Mary's Norfolk Division (later ODU).
The iconic clam-shell style stands, featuring unique curved concrete sections, provided a distinctive atmosphere and capacity for 18,000 spectators.
Foreman Field hosted football, lacrosse, and field hockey throughout the years, witnessing prominent matchups with local rivals and regional powerhouses.
Farewell to Football and Transformation (1962-2009):
With ODU's football program ending in 1961, Foreman Field fell into disuse. The stadium underwent various renovations, focusing on baseball, field hockey, and other collegiate sports.
The aging clam-shell stands presented structural concerns, ultimately leading to their demolition in 2007.
Rebirth and Rise of the Monarchs (2010-Present):
ODU's triumphant return to football in 2010 sparked a new chapter for Foreman Field. A massive $65 million reconstruction project replaced the demolished stands with a modern, 21,944-seat bowl configuration.
The rechristened "S.B. Ballard Stadium at Foreman Field" (in honor of a major donor) welcomed the Monarchs faithful back in 2019.
The roar of the crowd echoing through the stands has become a familiar soundtrack on Saturdays, as ODU battles for Sun Belt Conference honors and beyond.
Early Days (1930s-1950s):
✦ Simple leather lids with the letters "ODU" or "Old Dominion" painted in block letters - a no-frills approach reminiscent of college football's early days.
✦ The iconic blue helmet arrived, symbolizing the institution's nickname and regal identity.
✦ A yellow "Monarch" logo with a crown emerged, adding a touch of distinction and power.
Modern Tweaks and Refinement (1980s-Present):
✦ Subtle adjustments continued, like transitioning from block letters to a script "ODU" logo for a sleeker look.
✦ Chrome finishes and metallic accents were experimented with, adding a modern touch.
