
In the heart of Norfolk, Virginia, Chartway Arena at the Ted Constant Convocation Center serves as the premier indoor venue for sports and entertainment at Old Dominion University. Known by many fans simply as “The Ted,” this arena is home to Monarchs athletics and hosts a wide range of concerts, family shows, and special events throughout the year.
Whether you’re attending a college basketball game or a live performance, here’s everything you need to know about visiting Chartway Arena.
Chartway Arena is located directly on Old Dominion University’s campus in Norfolk. Its central campus location makes it easily accessible for students, alumni, and local residents throughout the Hampton Roads region.
Situated near student housing, academic buildings, and other athletic facilities, the arena plays a major role in campus life. On game days, the surrounding area fills with Monarchs fans dressed in navy and silver, creating an energetic college atmosphere.
The arena originally opened in 2002 as the Ted Constant Convocation Center, named after a longtime supporter of Old Dominion University. In 2019, the venue entered into a naming rights partnership and became Chartway Arena at the Ted Constant Convocation Center.
Since opening, the arena has served as a cornerstone of ODU athletics and a major event venue for the region. Its modern design and flexible layout allow it to host everything from high-stakes basketball games to major touring acts and community events.
Over the years, the facility has welcomed thousands of fans for sports and entertainment, solidifying its reputation as one of the top indoor arenas in Coastal Virginia.
Chartway Arena is home to the Old Dominion Monarchs basketball teams. Both the men’s and women’s programs compete at the NCAA Division I level, drawing strong crowds throughout the season.
Monarchs basketball games are the centerpiece of the arena’s sports calendar. Conference matchups and rivalry games often generate the loudest atmospheres, with students packing designated sections to cheer on ODU.
In addition to basketball, the arena has hosted wrestling events, special athletic showcases, and other collegiate competitions.
While Monarchs basketball anchors the schedule, Chartway Arena regularly welcomes a variety of entertainment events. The venue’s size and production capabilities make it suitable for:
National and regional concert tours
Family-friendly shows
Comedy performances
Graduation ceremonies
Community and university events
Because it serves both the university and the broader Norfolk community, the arena’s calendar stays active year-round. From winter basketball games to spring concerts and special events, there’s often something happening at The Ted.
Chartway Arena has a seating capacity of approximately 8,600 for basketball games, with flexibility for different event types. The layout is designed to keep fans close to the action, whether they’re seated courtside or higher in the upper sections.
Seating typically includes:
Lower-level bowl seating
Upper-level sections
Premium or club-style seating for select events
Floor seating configurations for concerts
The arena’s relatively intimate size helps create a loud, high-energy environment during Monarchs basketball games. When the student section gets involved, the noise level can rise quickly and give ODU a true home-court advantage.
SeatGeek makes it simple to browse upcoming events at Chartway Arena. Fans can explore the event schedule, compare available ticket options, and view interactive seating maps to find the right fit for their group.
Ticket prices vary depending on the event. Conference basketball games and major concerts may carry higher demand, while select games and university events may offer more budget-friendly options.
For high-profile matchups or popular touring acts, it’s a good idea to secure tickets early. Planning ahead can provide better seat selection and pricing flexibility.
Arriving early is one of the best ways to enjoy your experience at Chartway Arena. For basketball games, early arrival allows fans to watch warmups, find concessions, and settle in before tip-off.
Parking is available in designated campus garages and lots, though demand may increase during sold-out games or large concerts. Reviewing parking information before your visit can help ensure a smoother arrival.
Inside the arena, guests can expect traditional concessions along with university merchandise stands featuring Monarchs apparel. Wearing navy and silver is encouraged, especially during basketball season.
Because the venue is indoors, weather is rarely a concern once inside. However, Norfolk traffic patterns and event timing can affect travel, so allowing extra time is often helpful.
Chartway Arena blends college spirit with professional-level event production. Its modern design, strong sightlines, and versatile layout make it a key destination for sports and entertainment in the Hampton Roads region.
For students, it’s a central part of campus life. For alumni, it’s where school pride comes alive during Monarchs basketball games. For local residents, it’s a convenient venue for concerts and major events without leaving Norfolk.
Whether you’re cheering on the Old Dominion Monarchs or attending a live show, Chartway Arena at the Ted Constant Convocation Center delivers an engaging and energetic event experience. If you’re planning a visit, checking the upcoming schedule on SeatGeek is the first step toward securing your seats.
📁 Categories: NCAA Basketball
🏷️ Tags: Chartway Arena, Old Dominion Monarchs, Old Dominion University