As the clock ticks down to one of the most anticipated games in college football history, fans from both Ohio State University and the University of Notre Dame are gearing up for a night of intense competition and camaraderie. The College Football Playoff National Championship Game on January 20, 2025, will see the Buckeyes and the Fighting Irish face off at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, promising an unforgettable evening of sportsmanship and spirit.

Witness the Thrilling Showdown Between Two Football Giants

In the heart of southeastern Virginia, alumni chapters of Ohio State and Notre Dame are buzzing with excitement as they prepare to rally behind their respective teams. Despite geographical distances, these dedicated supporters have found ways to unite, celebrating their shared passion for college football and fostering strong community ties.

Ohio State Historic Triangle Alumni: Reviving Traditions Amidst Challenges

The Ohio State Historic Triangle Alumni Chapter, representing Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown, has faced its share of challenges but remains committed to its mission. Although currently inactive due to low enrollment, the chapter continues to recruit new members and plans to revive popular events like game watch parties and speaker series once it regains active status.Rick Lodwick, a proud alumnus of the Class of 2002 and current chapter president, emphasizes the importance of bringing together alumni and friends. "Our primary goal is to create a vibrant community that supports and recruits the next generation of Buckeyes," Lodwick explains. He expresses optimism about the upcoming championship, noting that while expectations are high, the outcome ultimately depends on how well the team performs on the field.

Notre Dame Club of Southeastern Virginia: Upholding Tradition and Community

Meanwhile, the Notre Dame Club of Southeastern Virginia, which serves communities from Williamsburg to Virginia Beach, thrives on its commitment to the six C’s: Camaraderie, Community Service, Continuing Education, Current Students, Catholic/Christian Spirituality, and Communications. This dynamic organization hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including game-watch parties, community service initiatives, and educational programs.Chris Schreyer, a member of the Class of 2012 and part of the leadership team, underscores the club's role in maintaining the strong connections forged during college. "We strive to keep the Notre Dame spirit alive, ensuring that no matter where we are, we can always come together and celebrate what makes our alma mater so special," Schreyer says.

A Historical Connection: Lou Holtz’s Legacy in Williamsburg

Adding to the excitement is a historical connection between Notre Dame and Williamsburg. Former Fighting Irish head coach Lou Holtz began his coaching career at William & Mary in 1969, leading the team to a Southern Conference title and a Tangerine Bowl berth in 1970. Holtz also served as an assistant coach at Ohio State in 1968, contributing to the Buckeyes' National Championship win.This shared history adds a layer of significance to the upcoming matchup, highlighting the deep-rooted ties between the two institutions. Fans of both teams can appreciate the legacy that bridges their past and present, making this championship game even more meaningful.

Fans Unite: Celebrating Together in Norfolk

For those looking to join in the festivities, the Notre Dame Club invites everyone to Pixels Pints and Bytes in Norfolk for a game watch on Monday night. This event promises to be a lively gathering, open to all members of the community who wish to cheer on the Fighting Irish.Schreyer reflects on the indomitable spirit of Notre Dame, drawing inspiration from iconic figures like Rudy and Knute Rockne. "You can never count Notre Dame out of any game. With Coach Freeman at the helm, this team embodies resilience and unity, ready to give everything for victory," he remarks.As the stage is set for the 2025 College Football National Championship, fans across southeastern Virginia and beyond eagerly await the clash of titans. Whether cheering for the Buckeyes or the Fighting Irish, this game will undoubtedly go down in history as a testament to the enduring power of college football.