NORFOLK, Va. – 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.
Recently retired from the NFL, Heinicke originally signed as an undrafted free agent with the Minnesota Vikings before making his first career start with the Carolina Panthers in 2018. In 2021 and 2022 for the Washington Commanders, he started a combined 24 games and threw for 5,278 yards and 32 touchdowns. He played a total of 42 games over his career, playing for the Houston Texans, Atlanta Falcons and LA Chargers.
In 2012, Heinicke led the Monarchs to an 11-2 season and won the Walter Payton Award for the best player in FCS. He passed for a then FCS record 5,076 and 44 touchdowns, while rushing for 11 more. He ranks ninth all-time in Division I with 14,959 passing yards and is eighth all-time with 132 touchdown passes.
Located in Greenbrier Square shopping center (1501 Sentinel Dr. Chesapeake, VA 23320), DICK'S House of Sport Chesapeake is the premier shopping location for all 2026 ODU Athletic wear! This event will feature new Under Armour product, ODU branded drinkware, tailgate essentials, local licensed vendors and falls on Virginia's tax-free weekend. Also, fans can expect to dance with Big Blue, interact with coaches, and participate in games for giveaways and prizes!
ODU’s Director of Broadcasting Ted Alexander will host a special edition of the ODU Football Coach’s Show on site with head coach Ricky Rahne from 2-3 p.m. Heinicke will also make a guest appearance on the show.
ODU Football season tickets remain on sale for the 2026 season and can be purchased here.