More than 1,000 guests visited the UMW Athletic Battleground Complex on Saturday for the second annual Eagle Nation Day, amidst a carnival-like atmosphere and entertaining day of Eagle athletics.

The day kicked off with visits from local Special Olympics, who practiced soccer on one of the university fields before being recognized at soccer and volleyball matches in the afternoon. The festival opened for the public at 10 a.m., and featured games, prizes, inflatables, food, and music. NFL Hall of famer Darrell Green was on hand to interact with the fans as well. Most importantly, hundreds and hundreds of local children were given the opportunity to interact with the UMW student-athletes.

The day's theme revolved around women in sport, with home field hockey, volleyball, and women's soccer games.

"Our second annual Eagle Nation Day was a resounding success!", said Director of Athletics Ken Tyler. "It was great to celebrate UMW and to share our outstanding student-athletes with so many community members, particularly young children. We have strong role models in our athletic department and we are proud to serve as the front porch of our beautiful campus. I'm really glad the community got to see our student-athletes up close and personal and I hope everyone that attended Eagle Nation Day will come back often to see the Fredericksburg area's hometown team!"

The reviews for the day's activities,which expanded from last year's inaugural event, were universally positive. One parent said, "I just wanted to send you a quick email to simply say that I am so thankful for the fun my son and I had.  Your athletes were so wonderful, kind and fun! Everyone was so willing to help and play with the kids that it really made their day and my son and I heard a few others say that they want to go to UMW when they grow up because they have fun. Thank you and all the athletes!"

The day concluded with the bleacher dedication prior to the UMW field hockey game at 4:00 p.m. Representatives from the field hockey, men's, and women's lacrosse teams joined Tyler for a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony for the 1,000-seat structure, which greatly enhances the views for Eagle athletics at the turf stadium.