Big news for Richmond Ivy SC fans. The uber-popular pre-professional women’s team has five home games in June, leaving fans plenty of chances to see (and meet) their favorite players. Yes, the Richmond Ivy players stick around City Stadium after every home game to meet fans, sign autographs and chat with the thousands of local fans who regularly attend the home games. It’s part of what makes the Richmond Ivy experience so special.
“The season is so short, so this summer we’re trying to create a sense of FOMO with our fans,” said Madeline McCracken, Richmond Ivy’s sporting director. “We’re capitalizing on the great weather, the short season, the always-free parking and the amazing atmosphere. The vibes are great, and every game feels special.”
June’s home games kicked off on June 4 in front of 4,000 fans at City Stadium with a 3-1 win over Annapolis Blues FC. In addition to the food trucks, local beer vendors and festival-like atmosphere that is part of every home game, the Ivy will donate $1 from all “Tropic Like It’s Hot” cans sold at the City Stadium’s Hardywood Bar to Virginia Pride, a Diversity Richmond program that works to ensure that LGBTQ+ people across the Richmond region feel safe, seen and celebrated in the community.
The excitement continues
June 12 kicks off a special global soccer-themed weekend with a watch party at City Stadium for the USA versus Paraguay first-stage World Cup game.
After the Pride game, Richmond Ivy will return to City Stadium on June 13 to play against VA Beach United. This game is a fan-favorite “Green Out,” when all fans are asked to wear green from head to toe. Even better? The first 1,000 fans to arrive will receive a free Richmond Ivy rally towel for the game. In addition, fans can get 20% off all green merchandise at the City Stadium team store.
“There’s an electric atmosphere at these games,” said McCracken. “We’ve averaged 4,800 fans, and there have been multiple games where we’ve reached capacity at 6,000 and had to turn people away. Our fan turnout is off the charts.”
The June fun continues for the fans with the June 17 “friendly” match against Racing Power FC USA.Â
Girls just want to have fun
Then on June 23, it’s a “Girls Night Out” game against VA Atlantic FC. Though every game is a celebration of women and female sports, this game is special because the Ivy team consists of all local players who deserve to be celebrated, explained McCracken.
“We’re asking the Richmond community: Grab your friends and colleagues, and come out and support women,” said McCracken. “It’s a game for the women of this community — to empower women and get inspired by them. We always celebrate giving more exposure to girls. The future is very bright for women in this city.”
Last but not least, June’s final home game will be fan appreciation night on    June 27 versus Charlottesville Blues VC. The match will include raffles, post-match giveaways, discounts at the City Stadium team store and $4 Modelos and $4 Heineken from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Feel the joy
No matter which games you attend this June, expect a joyful, celebratory atmosphere.Â
“The players are part of the community,” said McCracken. “They return home for the summer, play for the Ivy and give back to the community. They are great ambassadors for the sport and the city.”
For tickets and to learn more about the Ivy, click here.
