NORFOLK, Va. — After three consecutive losing seasons for the Spartans, Norfolk State University students say they might have more to cheer for than just the marching band next year.
Michael Vick has agreed to become the next head football coach for Norfolk State University, and students and alumni say it could change the school's football program forever.
"It's like a fresh start, a new face, like, the whole Hampton Roads area will probably be coming out to the games," said Justin Smith, who played as a wide receiver for the Spartans from 2017 to 2021.
The decision follows the firing of Dawson Odums, who led the Spartans 15-30 after four seasons as head coach.
Vick follows recent former NFL stars who joined the college coaching ranks, like Deion Sanders and Eddie George.
Several said they hope it will also have the same economic impact that has followed these football stars.
"I mean, they've already seen, in Colorado, a 500% increase in merchandise sales, their ticket sales are through the roof, their fundraising through alumni is through the roof," said Peter Shaw, a retired Professor Emeritus of Business Administration Tidewater Community College.
According to VisitBoulder, the six home college football games at Folsom Field at University of Colorado are estimated to have generated a substantial economic impact of $113.2 million.
This is in large part credited to Deion Sanders' impact, which fans have dubbed "Coach Prime" impact.
“Coach Prime's impact in Boulder has been nothing short of transformative,” remarked Charlene Hoffman, CEO of VisitBoulder. “The economic boon generated by just six home CU football games is cause for celebration in itself. However, what truly sets this experience apart is Coach Prime’s far-reaching influence, touching the lives of people from all walks of life, elevating our collective perspectives, and uniting our entire community in celebration.”
Now students, alumni, and financial experts alike are all hoping Vick's name recognition could also have the same economic impact.
Fans told 13News Now that Vick's announcement has already had a cultural impact.
"We always say Michael Vick is like our big cousin, he's everyone's family here, because he's one of us," said Malik Davis, a junior at NSU. "I really hope he'll restore the spirit of NSU."
Prior to Tuesday's announcement, Vick said via his publicist that he'd be honored to be a coach for Norfolk State.
"I am truly grateful for the consideration, as it would be an honor to be the head coach at one of the nation's Top 20 HBCUs, especially home in the 757," the statement said. "Other than the fact that I am going through the necessary processes, there is nothing further to share right now."