VMI MSOC Charity Game - release

Men's Soccer Nathanial Barbee, VMI Athletic Communications

VMI Men’s Soccer to host Drew Ross Memorial Foundation Match on October 18

LEXINGTON, Va. – VMI Men’s Soccer will host a special charity match on October 18, teaming up with the Drew Ross Memorial Foundation at Patchin Field. VMI has partnered with the Drew Ross Memorial Foundation, an organization created in honor of the late Drew Ross, the son of VMI Soccer’s all-time wins leader, Stephen Ross ‘83, who coached the Keydets from 1989 to 2005. With nationally-ranked Furman coming to Lexington on Saturday, October 18, VMI will host the Drew Ross Memorial Foundation Match to honor the life and legacy of Drew.

Drew Ross Photo
Drew grew up in Lexington and around VMI Soccer. He attended home games even before he could walk, and many VMI soccer players impacted Drew as he grew up. VMI Soccer honoring Drew recognizes the impact so many VMI soccer players had on the man he became. VMI Soccer helped mold Drew into an amazing American who fought with all he had to defend and protect his country.
Former VMI Men's Soccer Head Coach and Drew's Father, Stephen Ross '83

Andrew “Drew” Patrick Ross was born in Lexington, VA, the son of Elizabeth Jones and Stephen Ross. He graduated from Rockbridge County High School in 2007 and would go on to study and train at the United States Military Academy at West Point. Drew received a congressional nomination to the Academy from Congressman Robert Goodlatte of the 6th District of Virginia.

Drew Ross Photo

Drew went on to complete the Special Forces Qualification Course, which was no surprise to anyone who knew him. He earned the coveted Green Beret and went on to be a team leader in Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group, his dream job. Drew and his team (SFOD-A 3126) deployed to Afghanistan in August of 2018. On November 27, 2018, Drew was killed in action with three of his soldiers when his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations. He was interred in Section 60 at Arlington National Cemetery in January 2019.

Drew Ross Photo

After his passing, the Drew Ross Memorial Foundation was formed, creating a pathway of healing and empowerment by bringing together the families, friends, and communities of fallen service members. Drew’s awards include the Bronze Star Medal (2nd award), Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, NATO Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Special Forces Tab, Ranger Tab, Combat Action Badge, Combat Infantry Badge, and Military Free Fall Parachutist Badge. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, and the Combat Infantry Badge.

Drew Ross Photo
VMI Soccer was the backdrop of our entire childhood. With dad coaching for 18 years, the team was truly our extended family—we couldn’t have written a better story for our upbringing. It means so much that VMI Soccer continues to be part of our lives and is now honoring Drew’s legacy through the Foundation. To see the program that shaped us stand with us in keeping Drew’s memory alive is deeply meaningful for our family.
Foundation President and Drew's sister, Sarah Geisen

VMI Men’s Soccer will honor Drew’s memory during the match, with special remarks from Stephen Ross at halftime. Admission to the match is free, and VMI invites all soccer fans and alumni to come together for a day of remembrance and camaraderie.

Drew Ross Photo
The Ross Family is woven into the fabric of the program. We are incredibly grateful to be given the opportunity to honor Drew and support the Foundation.
VMI Men's Soccer Head Coach Nick Regan

For more information about the Drew Ross Memorial Foundation or to make a donation, visit drewross.org.