Old Dominion University (ODU) is preparing for the opening of its new baseball stadium, the Ellmer Family Baseball Complex at TowneBank Field, which is scheduled to debut in 2026. Despite construction delays, ODU plans to host all home games at the stadium, utilizing temporary seating to accommodate up to 1,000 fans during the initial season.
The temporary seating will primarily be located beyond the left-field fence and will include amenities such as food trucks, beverage stations, and a party lounge tent equipped with televisions for game broadcasts. Additionally, a standing-room option will provide fans a vantage point to enjoy the games from above left field. The delays are attributed to necessary adjustments involving storm-water retention and the relocation of utility lines beneath the stadium.
Last season, the Monarchs were unable to play at their home field, instead competing at War Memorial Stadium in Hampton and Norfolk’s Harbor Park. They are set to open the upcoming season with a three-game series against Quinnipiac from February 13 to 15, 2026.
Virginia Players Shine in ACC Honors
In college football, ODU’s rival Virginia saw standout performances this season, with running back J’Mari Taylor being named to the All-ACC first team. Taylor led the conference with 997 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns, making him the only first-team selection from Virginia. The voting panel, consisting of 65 media members and all 17 ACC head coaches, recognized additional talent from Virginia, including center Brady Wilson and punter Daniel Sparks on the second team. Seven other Cavaliers received honorable mentions.
In contrast, Virginia Tech had only two players recognized, with defensive tackle Kemari Copeland earning a place on the third team. Copeland, a former standout at Kellam High, and defensive tackle Kody Huisman received honorable mention. Additionally, offensive lineman Adrian “Ace” Hamilton has switched his commitment from Virginia Tech to Michigan, raising interest among recruiting analysts.
Other Notable Developments in Sports
In high school sports, midfielder Kate Ward of Western Branch was named to the VHSL Class 6 all-state second team in field hockey, showcasing her exceptional skills on the field. Meanwhile, in professional hockey, the Norfolk Admirals have acquired goaltender Jaxon Castor from the Wheeling Nailers. Castor, who posted a record of 6-7-1 last season, brings experience to the team.
In volleyball, Fred Chao, the head coach of ODU, has added transfer Atlyn Proctor from Hutchinson Community College to his 2026 recruiting class. Proctor, an outside hitter from Nelson, British Columbia, recorded 639 kills and 696.5 points in her two seasons at Hutchinson.
On the basketball front, Toa Hollenbeck from Christopher Newport University has been named the Coast-To-Coast Athletic Conference Player of the Week after averaging 21.5 points per game in two victories. His teammate, Sarah Pritz, also garnered recognition as the C2C Player of the Week for her performances.
Lastly, in women’s soccer, Virginia player Lia Godfrey has achieved recognition as one of 15 semifinalists for the prestigious MAC Hermann Trophy. Godfrey tied for the team lead with 11 goals this season and contributed four assists, highlighting her significant impact on the field.
ODU’s developments in baseball and the recognition of local athletes across various sports promise to enhance the university’s athletic profile and engage the community in the upcoming seasons.
