Michael Vick’s influence on Norfolk State University (NSU) has become a remarkable story in the realm of sports attendance. Despite a challenging season, the Spartan football program experienced a surge in fan engagement.
Record Attendance Under Vick
Norfolk State’s attendance figures for the 2025 season underscored a significant rise in support, even amidst a struggling season. A juxtaposition of ticketing policies and Vick’s star power contributed to this unprecedented increase in spectators.
Homecoming Attendance Comparison
One of the most notable measures of fan engagement is the Homecoming game, which saw dramatic changes since Vick’s arrival. The attendance numbers were impressive:
- 2023 Homecoming (Morgan State): 24,960 fans
- 2025 Homecoming (South Carolina State): 47,273 fans
This represents a remarkable increase of 22,313 fans. This rise can be attributed to Norfolk State’s new ticketing policy, which required all attendees to have valid game tickets for access, thereby elevating the official count.
End-of-Season Attendance Comparison
The contrast in attendance at the season’s final game further illustrates Vick’s impact:
- 2023 Final Home Game (South Carolina State): 3,087 fans
- 2025 Final Home Game (Morgan State): 7,294 fans
This increase of 4,207 fans showcases growing interest, despite facing a poor team record. The 2023 season ended with a 3-7 record, while the 2025 season concluded at 1-9. Typically, fan engagement drops during losing seasons, but Vick’s leadership has seemingly reversed this trend.
Overall Attendance Trends
The broader context of attendance over the years highlights a transformation. Historically, Norfolk State’s average attendance fluctuated between 8,000 and 15,000. Remarkably, the 2025 season achieved:
- Total Attendance: 106,062 across five home games
This total surpasses the combined attendance of 2023 and 2024, marking one of the most substantial figures in recent history for the program.
Factors Driving Attendance Growth
The noticeable rise in fan attendance is driven by various factors, including:
- Michael Vick’s national appeal
- A renewed relevance in HBCU football
- New ticketing policies that optimized Homecoming access
- Increased media attention and community interest
- A shared belief in impending improvements
As Vick stated previously, “People want to support when they feel momentum.” His first year at NSU has depicted a belief in the future of Spartan football.
Looking Ahead for Norfolk State
Although the team has not achieved winning records under Vick yet, the increased attendance suggests a shift in the fanbase’s engagement. The nearly doubled Homecoming turnout and extraordinary season finale turnout highlight the revitalization of Norfolk State’s football program. Vick’s influence may not yet reflect in the win-loss column, but he has reinvigorated support and enthusiasm for NSU football.
