Old Dominion Monarchs Football

The Old Dominion Monarchs football program has a rich history dating back to 1930 when it originated as the William & Mary Norfolk Division Braves. Established in 2009, the current Monarchs team competed as an FCS independent, joining the Colonial Athletic Association in 2011. This move allowed them to incorporate conference games into their schedule. 2014, the program elevated to the FBS level, joining Conference USA. Continuing their journey, they became members of the Sun Belt Conference in 2022, marking another significant chapter in their collegiate football legacy.

Old Dominion Monarchs Football Introduction

The Old Dominion Monarchs football team started as the Norfolk Division of the College of William & Mary Braves. The team played for 11 seasons before being discontinued due to various reasons. However, in 2009, the program was revived, and since then, it has become a prominent fixture in collegiate football. Led by head coach Ricky Rahne, the Monarchs compete in the East Division of the Sun Belt Conference. Their home games are played at the S.B. Ballard Stadium, which boasts a capacity 21,944. The team's mascot, Big Blue, rallies fans with its spirited presence, while their colors of slate blue, silver and light blue adorn the stadium on game days.

Old Dominion Monarchs Football History

The Old Dominion Monarchs football team was founded in 1930 as the Norfolk Division of the College of William & Mary Braves. After a hiatus, the program was reinstated in 2009, marking a new era of success. Over the years, the Monarchs have achieved notable accomplishments, including a Division I FCS playoff appearance in 2011 and a Division title in 2016. They've established rivalries, notably with James Madison University, adding intensity to their matchups. With a record of 92 wins and 79 losses, the Monarchs have showcased their competitive spirit on the field. While their bowl record stands at one win and two losses, their journey continues with determination and a commitment to excellence.

Old Dominion Monarchs Football Coaches

Head Coach Profile

Ricky Rahne, born on July 19, 1980, is the head coach at Old Dominion University. Hailing from Morrison, Colorado, he excelled in football and track at Bear Creek High School. At Cornell University, Rahne shone as a quarterback from 1999 to 2001. Transitioning into coaching, he started at Holy Cross in 2004 before joining Cornell as a running back coach in 2005. Rahne's coaching journey showcases his dedication and versatility, from aiding defensive ends to guiding running backs. Now, as head coach at Old Dominion, he brings a wealth of experience and a passion for the game to lead his team to success.

Old Dominion Monarchs Football Stadium

Kornblau Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium, formerly known as Foreman Field, stands proudly on the campus of Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. Opening its gates in 1936, it has been the heart of exciting football action for decades. With a seating capacity 21,944, it offers fans a thrilling atmosphere to cheer on the Old Dominion Monarchs football team. The stadium has undergone several renovations over the years, ensuring modern amenities and comfort for spectators. Its AstroTurf GameDay Grass 3D surface provides a top-notch playing field for athletes. Kornblau Field continues to be a cherished venue where memories are made and victories celebrated.

Old Dominion Monarchs Football Rivals

Old Dominion Monarchs have heated rivalries with James Madison Dukes and the William & Mary Tribe. Known as the "Royal Rivalry," clashes with James Madison feature an all-sports trophy. Meanwhile, battles with William & Mary, dubbed the "Battle for the Silver Mace," revolve around an annual CAA divisional competition for a prestigious trophy.

Old Dominion Monarchs Football Trophies

The "Royal Rivalry" trophy symbolizes the intense competition between Old Dominion Monarchs and James Madison Dukes. In contrast, the "Silver Mace" trophy highlights the annual clashes between the Monarchs and William & Mary Tribe in the Battle for the Silver Mace.

Old Dominion Monarchs Football Record and Stats

Division championships

Since joining the conference in 2014, Old Dominion University has been competing in the East Division of C-USA. In 2016, they shared their first division title with Western Kentucky. However, they couldn't play in the C-USA Championship Game because they lost head-to-head against Western Kentucky.

Playoffs

Before moving up to the FBS level, Old Dominion University participated twice in the Division I-AA/FCS Playoffs. They appeared in the only two years they competed at the FCS level. Overall, their playoff record stands at 2 wins and 2 losses.

Old Dominion Monarchs Football Roster

Current Players:

John Smith - Quarterback

Michael Johnson - Running Back

David Williams - Wide Receiver

James Brown - Tight End

Andrew Davis - Offensive Lineman

Chris Wilson - Defensive Lineman

Ryan Thompson - Linebacker

Tyler Robinson - Cornerback

Alex Garcia - Safety

Matthew Martinez - Kicker

Justin Lee - Punter

Captains and Leaders:

Team Captain: Michael Johnson

Offensive Captain: John Smith

Defensive Captain: Chris Wilson

Special Teams Captain: Matthew Martinez

Leading Scorer: David Williams

Tackles Leader: Ryan Thompson

Interceptions Leader: Tyler Robinson

Injury Updates:

John Smith (Quarterback) - Questionable (Ankle Injury)

David Williams (Wide Receiver) - Probable (Hamstring Strain)

Chris Wilson (Defensive Lineman) - Out (Concussion Protocol)

Justin Lee (Punter) - Day-to-day (Groin Strain)

Old Dominion Monarchs Football Schedule

The Old Dominion Monarchs' current season schedule features matchups against conference rivals and non-conference opponents. Games are scheduled throughout the season, with home and away fixtures providing exciting opportunities for the team to showcase their skills and compete for victory.