Good Morning, ODU Fam. Who doesn’t love a little throwback highlights to start off the day?
What all do we have stirring in today’s Brew? Check it out below!
🏈 In Good Hands
🎥 Monarchs+: California Love
⏱️ Countin’ Down: 45 Days
🦁 And much more!
🎥 CALIFORNIA LOVE
Last month, ODU Head Coach DeLisha Milton-Jones and assistant coach Ronald Jones, Jr. traveled to Los Angeles to be a part of a truly special weekend in Tinseltown.
Milton-Jones was a part of the LA Sparks’ 30th Anniversary celebration and the duo sat down to talk about the trip, the celebration and reflected back on their time together.
📈 STOCK UP
🔼 In Good Hands. ODU linebacker Koa Naotala has always been recognized for his outstanding effort on the field. But this week, the Monarch standout was honored for his work off the field.
On Monday, Naotala was named ODU’s nominee for the Allstate Good Works Team.
The Allstate AFCA Good Works Team recognizes college football student-athletes who demonstrate exceptional commitment to community service, academics and athletics. Established in 1992 and presented by Allstate since 2008, the program honors players who use their platforms to strengthen communities and support causes important to them.
Naotala has recorded more than 100 hours of community service in his ODU career, working with numerous organizations, including the Ronald McDonald House, Monarchs Give Back and working with local schools.
🔼 You Can Find Me In St. Louie. Another day, another ODU Monarch joining the professional ranks.
After his teammate Bailey Matela signed a deal with the Washington Wild Things earlier this week, ODU hurler Hunter Baynes followed with an undrafted free agent contract with the St. Louis Cardinals.
A right-hander from Bradenton, Fla., Baynes battled injuries over the past two seasons, but made 15 appearances out of the bullpen for the Monarchs before making four starts for the Mahoning Valley Scrappers of the MLB Draft League this summer to earn his opportunity.
🏈 COUNTIN’ DOWN: 4️⃣5️⃣ DAYS TIL KICKOFF
Throughout the summer, we will be counting down the days
to the return of ODU Football this fall. The Monarchs will host
Norfolk State on September 5 at 6 p.m.
It was a Saturday night that ODU fans won’t ever forget.
Playing in front of a national TV audience on the road in a hostile environment, the Monarchs absolutely dominated in-state foe Virginia Tech last September, 4️⃣5️⃣-26.
It was ODU’s third victory against Virginia Tech in a seven-game series that dates back to 2018, but the first ever in Blacksburg. Prior last September, the Monarchs had never led Tech in Blacksburg. It was ODU’s first road victory against a Power 4 school.
🏈 SPECIAL VISITOR
Former Old Dominion quarterback, Walter Payton Award Winner and 10-year NFL veteran, Taylor Heinicke, will be the special guest headlining ODU’s third annual Fan Fest at DICK’S House of Sport in Chesapeake, scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 8.
The Fan Fest begins at 11 a.m. and the first 100 fans through the door will receive a wrist band to receive an autograph. Heinicke will sign autographs from 1-2 p.m. A commemorative poster will be available for Heinicke to sign for free. Personal items will not be signed. However, items that are purchased at DICK’S House of Sport on August 8 are available to be signed.
🗓️ ON THE DOCKET
* All Times are Eastern
Saturday, September 5th
🏈 Football vs. Norfolk State @ 6 pm l ESPN+
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🦁 Have a great one, y’all!