Hokie Club Former Tech defensive tackle JohnGraves was named an All-American Strength and Conditioning Athlete of the Yearby the National Strength and Conditioning Association on March 31. The NSCAawarded 247 collegiate and high school athletes from 96 schools with thisaward.
Graves gained 20 pounds during hiscareer at Tech. He increased his bench press from 350 pounds to 425, and herecorded a front squat of 420 pounds during his last testing. He also lifted341 pounds in the power clean and 360 pounds in the push jerk. His 36-inchvertical jump is a record for a Tech defensive tackle.
The Richmond, Va., native earnedsecond-team All-ACC honors this past season. He recorded a career-high 37tackles, including five for a loss.
The NSCA All-American Athlete of theYear Award program is in its 32nd year and is made possible by agrant from Power Systems, Inc.