Spotlighting Supporters

How long have you been a member of the ODAF and why do you support ODU Athletics?

We have contributed to ODU athletics for 32 years through the Big Blue Club and the ODAF and have been attending ODU games since 1970. My husband and I became avid basketball fans in the late 70s. 

We live very close to campus so it’s convenient for us to attend a variety of Monarch athletic events. I have the upmost respect and admiration for the athletes at ODU. We enjoy the privilege of attending their games and supporting their hard work and dedication.

What is your favorite memory of ODU Athletics?

Oh wow, I have so many! High on my list would be: beating VT in football, Anne Donovan taking my son into the locker room to celebrate after wins, Ronnie McAdoo giving my son a basketball he played with at a summer tournament, accompanying the cheer squad to the men’s NCAA basketball tournament in the 90s and watching as they made it to the second round, being invited to President Roseanne Runte’s home so we could share our thoughts about the possibility of ODU developing a football team. At the very first game she gave us the football she was given at the pregame ceremony. 

What do you enjoy most about an ODU Football Gameday?

We love getting together with friends and family for tailgating in the Black Lot, watching the Monarch March to the stadium, cheering on the team as they come out of the tunnel, and celebrating a win.

If you could describe ODU in one word, what word would it be and why?  

Watching the university grow over the past 50 years has been amazing! It has grown from a school in the middle of a neighborhood to an ever-expanding beautiful campus. My word would be inspirational.

What excites you about the future of ODU Athletics?

It is totally apparent that an enormous amount of time, energy, and thought goes into the planning of every athletic event. We’ve gotten to know so many people involved in every aspect of athletics. Everyone we encounter is smiling, welcoming, and anxious to help in any way. We are anxiously awaiting another year of high-quality sports and outstanding athletes. Also looking forward to the new baseball facility!

Is there anything else that people should know about you?

From the late 80s to the mid 90s, I was the coach of the cheer squad. During that time, my two sons were ball boys for both men’s and women’s home basketball games. They knew all of the players and had the best seats in the house! 

I’m a very proud ODU alum from the classes of 1974 and 1995. GO MONARCHS!