THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, June 22, 1995 TAG: 9506220008
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A14 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 47 lines
As I was sitting in Harbor Park recently enjoying the beautiful weather, the great stadium and the play of the game, I could not help but question in my mind why Old Dominion, the alumni and the city of Norfolk cannot find the wherewithal to have football at ODU.
Yes, I heard a few years ago about the ``money wasn't in the budget'' and other reasons (excuses). But I find it hard to believe that the need isn't there; and I believe that the right people could make it happen if all the positive reasons were accentuated.
Norfolk found the money to build Nauticus, it seeks to bring a world-class shopping center to downtown and it rightfully should find a way to feature a battleship along its beautiful waterfront.
I cannot understand why Norfolk cannot help ODU just start up a football team! I think the kids should have it and the alumni and fans like myself would support it.
We are a region full of sports fans craving more. I see the loyal fan support when ODU plays JMU or UNC or any other team with good competition in basketball - why isn't it there for football?
ODU certainly has a first-class basketball program as well as excellence in other sports - so why not use football to make the beginning of fall a festive occasion at ODU? The spirit kindles and the people are ready: We want a team!
Norfolk and others can make it happen. I would love to see the ODU Monarchs play Navy, JMU, East Carolina, Virginia Tech, U.Va., W&M, Richmond, Miami, Notre Dame and even Nebraska in the Orange Bowl!
We have great sports talent in Hampton Roads that teams from all across America recruit annually.
More than a million and a half people live here and crave big-time university-level and professional sports. I bet there are a ``few good men'' who could make this happen.
What about it Norfolk? What about it ODU? What about it alumni? Make it happen. Sell some bonds if you need a new stadium. Sell some season tickets. Put forth the effort. The people will support it.
ALAN V. MONETTE
Smithfield, June 9, 1995 by CNB