I remember sitting in the stands last season watching Old Dominion Football struggle through another disappointing game, and it struck me how much potential this program truly has. Having followed college football programs across different countries, I’ve seen firsthand how building a loyal fanbase can transform a team’s fortunes. Take, for instance, a 24-year-old athlete I read about recently who managed to build a solid following not only in the Philippines but in neighboring countries like Thailand and Myanmar. That kind of grassroots support didn’t happen overnight—it was cultivated through smart engagement and consistent performance. ODU Football could learn a thing or two from that model.
First off, let’s talk about recruitment. I’ve always believed that the heart of any winning program lies in its ability to attract and develop talent. Old Dominion needs to cast a wider net, much like that young athlete who expanded his influence beyond his home country. For ODU, this means looking beyond Virginia and tapping into talent-rich states like Florida, Georgia, and Texas. I’d even argue that they should explore international pipelines—imagine bringing in a player from Europe or Asia who can add a unique dynamic to the team. Recruiting isn’t just about physical skills; it’s about finding players with the right mindset. I’ve seen too many programs focus solely on stats, but the ones that succeed prioritize character and resilience. ODU should aim to sign at least 15-20 new players this offseason, with a focus on strengthening the offensive line and secondary. If they can land a couple of four-star recruits, which I think is entirely possible, it would send a strong message to the rest of Conference USA.
But recruitment alone isn’t enough. The coaching staff needs to step up their game, and here’s where I get a bit opinionated. I’ve never been a fan of overly conservative play-calling. Last season, ODU’s offense felt predictable, and it cost them in close games. They need to embrace a more aggressive, modern approach—think up-tempo spreads and creative trick plays. Defensively, the numbers don’t lie: they allowed an average of 34 points per game, which is simply unacceptable. I’d love to see them implement more blitz packages and man-to-man coverage. And let’s not forget special teams; it’s often the most overlooked aspect, but games can be won or lost on a single field goal or punt return. Investing in a dedicated special teams coordinator could yield immediate dividends.
Now, let’s talk about the fan experience. This is where ODU can really take a page from that 24-year-old’s playbook. Building a loyal following requires more than just winning games; it’s about creating an emotional connection with the community. I’ve been to games where the atmosphere felt electric, and it wasn’t just because the team was winning—it was because the fans felt like they were part of something bigger. ODU should host more community events, like player meet-and-greets or youth football clinics. They could also leverage social media to engage with fans on a personal level. Imagine if the team’s quarterback started a weekly vlog giving behind-the-scenes insights—that kind of content would go viral in no time. And let’s not underestimate the power of game-day traditions. Whether it’s a unique tailgating culture or a signature victory celebration, these rituals make fans feel invested in the program’s success.
Another area that often gets overlooked is facilities. I’ve toured several mid-major programs, and the ones with top-notch facilities always seem to have an edge in recruiting and player development. ODU’s S.B. Ballard Stadium is a decent venue, but it could use some upgrades. Adding state-of-the-art training equipment, expanding the weight room, and even incorporating virtual reality technology for film study could make a huge difference. I’d estimate that an investment of around $5-7 million in facility improvements would pay off in the long run. It’s not just about impressing recruits; it’s about giving current players the tools they need to succeed. And let’s be honest, when players see that the program is committed to their development, they’re more likely to buy into the system and play with passion.
Of course, none of this matters without strong leadership. I’ve always believed that a head coach sets the tone for the entire program. ODU’s coach needs to be more than just a strategist; he needs to be a motivator and a visionary. I’d like to see him take a more hands-on approach with the players, building relationships that go beyond the field. Transparency is key here—players should know exactly where they stand and what’s expected of them. And let’s not forget the importance of staff continuity. Too many programs suffer from constant turnover, which disrupts player development and team chemistry. If ODU can keep its coaching staff intact for at least two to three seasons, I’m confident they’ll see significant improvement.
As I wrap this up, I can’t help but feel optimistic about ODU’s future. Building a winning program is no easy task, but it’s far from impossible. By focusing on recruitment, modernizing their strategy, engaging the community, upgrading facilities, and fostering strong leadership, I believe Old Dominion Football can turn things around next season. It might take a year or two to see full results, but the foundation is there. I, for one, will be watching closely—and I hope to see a packed stadium cheering them on every step of the way. After all, football is more than just a game; it’s a community effort, and with the right approach, ODU can become a force to be reckoned with.
