Sports Backers Stadium: A Legacy of Athletics in Richmond
For over two decades, Sports Backers Stadium served as a vital hub for competitive athletics and community fitness in Richmond, Virginia. Owned by the local sports organization Sports Backers, this facility provided a dedicated space for collegiate sports, professional development leagues, and local marathon preparation.
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Key Facts
- Location: Richmond, Virginia, United States.
- Capacity: 3,250 seats.
- Opening Date: August 1999.
- Primary Features: A central field surrounded by the Richard A. Hollander Track.
- Final Status: Purchased by the City of Richmond in June 2026 for $25 million for demolition.
Facility Overview and Usage
Opened in August 1999, Sports Backers Stadium was designed as a multi-purpose venue. Its primary configuration included a soccer field encircled by the Richard A. Hollander Track, a specialized running surface used for track and field events and training.
The stadium was a cornerstone for several academic and athletic institutions. It served as the home ground for the VCU Rams (Virginia Commonwealth University) men's and women's soccer and track and field teams from 1999 through 2025. Additionally, the Virginia Union Panthers utilized the facility for their athletic programs.
Community and Professional Impact
Beyond collegiate sports, the stadium played a significant role in the local running community. The "Marathon Training Team" utilized the venue every Saturday and Sunday for 23 weeks annually to prepare athletes for the Anthem Richmond Marathon.
The venue also hosted high-stakes competitions, including the CAA (Colonial Athletic Association) women's soccer tournament finals in 2004 and 2005. A notable highlight occurred during the first final, where the VCU Rams women's soccer team secured the conference tournament title with a 3–1 victory over William & Mary.
From 2005 to 2008, the stadium also hosted the Richmond Kickers Future, a team in the PDL (Premier Development League), further cementing its status as a developmental center for soccer talent.
Transition and the Diamond District
The era of Sports Backers Stadium came to a close in 2026. On June 17, 2026, the City of Richmond acquired the property for $25 million. This acquisition was part of the Diamond District development plan, a city-led initiative to revitalize the area. Following the purchase, demolition began to clear the site for new construction.
To ensure the continuity of their athletic programs, VCU's soccer and track and field teams are transitioning to a new stadium within a newly developed athletic village, with play expected to commence in August 2026.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Owner | Sports Backers |
| Capacity | 3,250 |
| Coordinates | 37°34′11″N 77°27′45″W |
| Primary Tenants | VCU Rams, Virginia Union Panthers |
| Sale Price (2026) | $25 Million |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the capacity of Sports Backers Stadium?
The stadium had a seating capacity of 3,250 people.
Which collegiate teams used the stadium?
The stadium was used by the VCU Rams (men's and women's soccer and track and field) and the Virginia Union Panthers.
What happened to the stadium in 2026?
The City of Richmond purchased the stadium for $25 million on June 17, 2026, and began demolition to make way for the Diamond District development plan.
What was the name of the running track at the facility?
The running track surrounding the field was known as the Richard A. Hollander Track.
Where will VCU athletes play now?
VCU's track and field and soccer teams will move to a new stadium located in their new athletic village, with plans to begin play in August 2026.