Monarch Pride is in the Air!

Tomorrow, football begins anew at Old Dominion University.

You don't have to know me too well to notice I'm an avid sports fan. So on that level, I am as excited as everyone else on campus and throughout Hampton Roads for tomorrow's epic game.

But as president and a member of the ODU community for more than 15 years, I am thrilled for what football has brought to our campus and our city. Pride, excitement, togetherness, and a sense of community that nearly shouts to the world, "Old Dominion University has arrived!"

As I drove into campus this morning, virtually every student I saw was wearing ODU colors and talking excitedly about their plans for the weekend's festivities. In my parking lot, faculty and staff members were busily adorning their cars with Old Dominion flags. Looking out my office windows, I saw the final preparations for one of the many tented celebrations that will take place prior to the game. And I was humming a familiar sports rallying tune that I've been hearing all week as the band practiced on Foreman Field at Ballard Stadium.

I can't help but marvel at the transformation this university has experienced over the past 15 years. With our nationally recognized faculty, outstanding alumni, high-achieving students, modern and vibrant campus, cutting-edge research, and regional economic contributions, Old Dominion University truly has arrived. And Monarch Football is the bow on this spectacular package.

Good luck to Coach Bobby Wilder and the history-making Monarchs Football team!