Free Hydration Returns to City Stadium as Kickers and Ivy Kick Off 2026
By Billy Briefman · March 12, 2026 · 3 min read read
Category: Sports
Richmond Water brings back its popular refill stations for a third consecutive year — and is looking for sponsors to join the mission.
Soccer season is almost here for Richmond. The Richmond Kickers open their 2026 USL League One home schedule on Saturday, March 21 against FC Naples at City Stadium (kickoff 6:00 p.m.), while the Richmond Ivy will tip off their USL W League season on Saturday, May 9. Together, the two clubs represent one of the most vibrant local soccer cultures in the South — and this year, fans heading through the gates will once again be able to refuel for free.
Richmond Water Returns for Year Three
Richmond Water, the Richmond-based sustainable hydration company, is returning to City Stadium for a third straight season with free water refill stations on the concourse. The stations — two of them, positioned for easy access — are available to any fan who brings a clear, empty reusable container of 32 ounces or less into the stadium.
Will Melton, Richmond Water's founder, says the partnership has made a real difference for the city. "We are incredibly excited to be back at City Stadium for a third year in a row," Melton said. "This partnership has given Richmond a chance to see the real potential of sustainable hydration. Over the course of our first two seasons, we dispensed thousands of gallons of water to fans who chose to bring their own bottles rather than buy single-use plastic. We're looking forward to expanding on that impact this year, and we want every fan — Kickers and Ivy alike — to come prepared with a clear refillable bottle and take advantage of what we've built here."
Sponsorship Opportunities Available
Richmond Water is also welcoming brand sponsors to take over a refill station. Sponsors receive prominent visibility at the point of refill — a moment when thousands of environmentally-minded fans interact directly with the station each game. It's a natural match for brands aligned with sustainability, wellness, or local community investment. Interested sponsors can reach out to Richmond Water directly for more information.
What to Know Before You Go
Fans planning to use the refill stations should be aware of City Stadium's container rules before heading to the gate. According to the official Richmond Kickers matchday policy, one clear, empty container per person is permitted — 32 ounces or less. No outside food or beverages are allowed inside City Stadium. All personal items must also be carried in a clear bag (approved bags include clear totes, plastic zip-top bags up to one gallon, and small clutches no larger than 5" x 7"). A clear water bottle tucked in a clear bag keeps entry hassle-free.
Gates open 60 minutes before kickoff for most matches (90 minutes for select dates). General parking is free for all ticket holders, though it fills quickly — arrive early and consider ridesharing. Tickets for all Kickers home matches are sold exclusively at SeatGeek, with a $5 discount per ticket when purchased more than 72 hours in advance.
The Bigger Picture
City Stadium, located at 3201 Maplewood Avenue in the Museum District, has grown into one of the most beloved venues in Virginia for live soccer. The Kickers enter their 34th season under seventh-year head coach Darren Sawatzky, while the Ivy — now in their third season of play in the USL W League — continue to build a following that averaged nearly 5,000 fans per match during their inaugural year. The Richmond Water partnership is a fitting complement to a matchday culture that prizes community, sustainability, and keeping soccer accessible for all Richmonders.
Disclosure: Richmond Water is a brand owned by Xponent21, the parent company of Channel RVA.