Hokie ClubBLACKSBURG – After over two decades of exceptional service and dedication, Mike Goforth, Associate Athletics Director of Sports Medicine at Virginia Tech, has announced his retirement from college sports.
Goforth, whose career spans over 26 years with Virginia Tech Athletics, has been an instrumental figure in advancing the department’s sports medicine program, earning widespread respect and recognition within collegiate athletics for his dedication to athlete health and well-being.
Although Goforth is stepping away from the college athletics landscape, he intends on pursuing a role in teaching, research and new initiatives with various campus agencies, and looks forward to his continued involvement with students across campus and various healthcare partners throughout the Blacksburg community and Southwest Virginia.
Since joining Virginia Tech in 1998, Goforth has transformed the sports medicine program through his unwavering commitment to innovation, research, and athlete-centered care. His efforts have significantly enhanced the health and safety standards for the Hokies, impacting countless student-athletes across all sports. Under his leadership, Virginia Tech’s sports medicine department has grown into a nationally recognized program known for its comprehensive approach to injury prevention, rehabilitation and cutting-edge recovery practices.
“Mike’s impact on our student-athletes and teams has been significant,” said Whit Babcock, Tech Director of Athletics. “His approach to sports medicine has not only set new standards within our program but has also influenced collegiate sports medicine across the nation. We are immensely grateful for his contributions, and we wish him all the best as he moves forward.”
Throughout his career, Goforth has championed an integrative approach to athlete health, collaborating with medical experts, sports psychologists, nutritionists and other specialists to provide holistic support for Virginia Tech’s student-athletes. His forward-thinking strategies have played a crucial role in minimizing injury risks, expediting recovery and optimizing performance. Recognized as a pioneer in sports medicine, Goforth has been honored with multiple accolades for his work and has become a trusted advisor to many peers and young professionals in the field.
Reflecting on his retirement, Goforth shared, “It has been a true honor to serve Virginia Tech and to work alongside such an incredible group of professionals dedicated to the well-being of our student-athletes. I am deeply grateful for the support of my colleagues, the coaches, and, most importantly, the student-athletes who inspired me every day. I am excited to begin this new chapter, but Virginia Tech will always hold a special place in my heart.”