The stadium was originally known as Foreman Field, which opened in 1936 and served as a venue for both college football and local high school athletics.
The 2019 reconstruction required the total demolition of the historic concrete stands, leaving only the original 1936 brick arches as a nod to the site's history.
The stadium field is oriented North-South to optimize visibility and minimize sun glare for players during afternoon games.
The venue's expansion project was completed in a record nine-month window to ensure readiness for the 2019 football season.
The facility is named after S.B. Ballard, a prominent local contractor and benefactor of Old Dominion University athletics.
S.B. Ballard Stadium serves as the home field for the Old Dominion University (ODU) Monarchs football team in Norfolk, Virginia. Following a massive 2019 renovation, the venue features a 21,944-seat capacity with a distinct precast concrete design and modern amenities. The stadium is located directly on the ODU campus, integrating seamlessly with the university's athletic district. It utilizes a synthetic turf field designed for year-round high-performance use. The facility includes luxury suites, a large press box, and expanded concession areas to accommodate game-day crowds.
From the top rows of the West side stands, looking down at the field with the university campus visible in the background.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the stadium footprint is large and requires navigating multiple stairways and concourse levels.
Check the university's clear bag policy before arriving, as strict security protocols are enforced for all ticketed events.
Arrive early to explore the surrounding ODU campus, which offers scenic views and historic brick architecture near the stadium gates.
Do not attempt to enter with prohibited items like umbrellas, large bags, or outside food and beverages, which will be confiscated at the gates.
Active primarily during the fall semester for college football; venue is generally closed to the public outside of scheduled athletic events.
Business casual or university spirit wear is standard; refrain from using laser pointers or throwing objects onto the field.
