RamFest returns: VCU Athletics kicks off the 2025-26 season
VCU women's volleyball team meets in the huddle before a scrimmage against Christopher Newport University on Aug. 23. Photo by Kieran Stevens.
Drew Thompson, Sports Editor
Alexis Washington, Assistant Sports Editor
VCU brought fans and athletes together on Saturday for the annual RamFest block party at the Stuart C. Siegel Center — kickstarting a busy season.
The event included live music, games, exclusive merchandise and autograph signings from the men’s and women’s basketball teams.
“It means the best time of the year is here,” Carolyn Coleman, a devout VCU fan, said. “We get to be with friends, or as we call them, ‘Ramily,’ and we get to meet the new players.”
This year’s festival featured a women’s volleyball scrimmage against Christopher Newport University, allowing both new and long-time Rams to prepare for the regular season.
Student athletes from the baseball, track and field, cross country, and men’s and women’s basketball, men’s and women’s tennis and women’s lacrosse teams all made appearances.
Hundreds of students and VCU fans attended the event for the opportunity to meet players like men’s basketball player third-year forward Michael Belle.
“It’s definitely exciting, because it’s great to see how many people really just support you individually and as a team,” Belle said.
For student-athletes, RamFest is just as important to them as it is to fans. Women’s track and field redshirt third-year thrower Desi Akaolisa always looks forward to the event.
“Seeing the whole team and then seeing other teams as well is like, okay, we’re all VCU,” Akaolisa said. “Go Rams!”
Check out exclusive interviews by The CT with student-athletes on the sports section’s new Instagram page: @TheCTSports.
