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The $67.5 Million Transformation: 7 Shocking Facts About Kornblau Field At S.B. Ballard Stadium (Formerly Foreman Field)

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Foreman Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium is not just a venue; it represents one of the most significant architectural and athletic transformations in the history of Old Dominion University (ODU) football. As of the current date in late 2025, the stadium, officially known as Kornblau Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium, stands as a premier facility for a rising Sun Belt Conference program, a far cry from the nearly century-old structure it replaced. The massive, $67.5 million reconstruction project effectively demolished and rebuilt the majority of the historic Foreman Field, creating a modern, fan-focused college football venue that sets a new standard for mid-major universities. This deep dive explores the stadium's evolution, its state-of-the-art features, and its vital role as the home of the ODU Monarchs.

A Legacy Reborn: The History of Foreman Field and The Monarchs' Modern Home

The history of the site where the stadium now stands is steeped in Virginia sports lore, dating back nearly 90 years. The original Foreman Field first opened its doors in 1936, hosting a football game between the University of Virginia and the College of William & Mary's Norfolk Division, which would eventually become Old Dominion University.

From Oyster Bowl Icon to Modern Fortress

For decades, the stadium was known simply as Foreman Field, a multi-purpose venue that hosted numerous events, including the famous Oyster Bowl from 1946 to 1995, an annual college football classic that drew major teams like Syracuse and Army. However, by the early 21st century, the facility was functionally outdated for the needs of a modern NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) program. When ODU relaunched its football program in 2009, Foreman Field underwent a modest renovation to add a new pavilion and skyboxes, but a complete overhaul was necessary to compete at the highest level. The final game in the original Foreman Field structure was played on November 17, 2018, before demolition began to make way for the new era. The massive reconstruction, led by S.B. Ballard Construction Company and designed by the globally renowned firm Populous, resulted in the current Kornblau Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium. The new stadium retained the historic Foreman Field archway entrance but replaced the north, east, and west stands, creating a brand-new, intimate, and modern atmosphere for the ODU Monarchs.

7 Shocking Facts About the State-of-the-Art S.B. Ballard Stadium

The $67.5 million project was not merely an upgrade; it was a full-scale reconstruction that prioritized the fan experience, modern amenities, and revenue generation. The new facility is a testament to ODU's commitment to its athletic future.

1. A Perfectly Optimized Capacity of 21,944

The new stadium was designed to create an intimate and loud atmosphere, a crucial element for a Group of Five college football program. The official seating capacity is 21,944, which is slightly smaller than some older configurations but ensures that every seat is closer to the action and provides a more intense home-field advantage. The new stands on both sidelines bring fans closer to the field, making the game-day environment electric.

2. The Exclusive Priority Automotive Club

One of the most significant revenue-generating additions is the Priority Automotive Club, an exclusive premium seating area. Located on the west side of the field near the 50-yard line, this club offers fans a luxury experience with upholstered furniture, HDTVs, and access to a climate-controlled lounge and high-end concessions. This area is also utilized for donor entertainment areas and non-game day events, maximizing the facility's utility.

3. Luxury Suites and New Field-Level Boxes

The stadium boasts new Luxury Suites that include tiered stadium seating for 12, offering a private and upscale viewing experience. Additionally, the reconstruction introduced innovative Field-Level Boxes located in the south end zone's new Game Day Building. These boxes provide a unique, up-close view of the action, a modern trend in college football stadium design.

4. Home to the Sun Belt Conference Monarchs

The stadium's transformation coincided with a major athletic move for ODU. The Monarchs transitioned from Conference USA (CUSA) and are now competing in the Sun Belt Conference's East Division. For the 2024 and 2025 football seasons, Kornblau Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium hosts a highly competitive schedule, solidifying its status as a major college football venue in the Mid-Atlantic region.

5. A New Press and Coaching Tower

The west side of the stadium is topped by a multi-level tower that houses the press box, broadcast facilities, and dedicated spaces for coaching staff. This structure provides state-of-the-art technology and optimal sightlines for media coverage and in-game strategic communication, essential elements for a top-tier FBS program.

6. The Economic Engine of Norfolk and Hampton Roads

The stadium is a key component of the overall Old Dominion University campus master plan. Beyond the direct construction cost, the facility significantly contributes to the local economy of Norfolk, Virginia, and the broader Hampton Roads area. The influx of fans for Monarchs home games generates substantial revenue for local businesses, hotels, and restaurants, making the stadium an important regional economic driver.

7. Kornblau Field: The Naming Rights Detail

While the overall structure is named after S.B. Ballard Construction, the playing surface itself is officially Kornblau Field, honoring the contributions of significant university donors. This dual naming convention—Kornblau Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium—is common in modern sports venues and reflects the combined effort of corporate partnership and philanthropic giving that made the $67.5 million project possible.

The Future of ODU Football in Their Reimagined Home

The completion of the reconstruction has given the ODU Monarchs a modern, intimidating, and aesthetically pleasing home field that rivals many Power Five facilities. The stadium is a powerful recruiting tool, showcasing the university's commitment to its student-athletes and the football program's future. With the Monarchs firmly established in the competitive Sun Belt Conference, the energy generated by the 21,944-seat stadium is crucial. The investment in premium amenities, from the Priority Automotive Club to the Luxury Suites and Field-Level Boxes, ensures a sustainable revenue stream to support the program for years to come. The transformation of Foreman Field into the state-of-the-art Kornblau Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium is a bold statement about Old Dominion University's ambition in the world of college football.
The $67.5 Million Transformation: 7 Shocking Facts About Kornblau Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium (Formerly Foreman Field)
foreman field at sb ballard stadium
foreman field at sb ballard stadium

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