Hokie ClubThe scene is the same at college campuses nationwide. Baseball stadiums are empty, locker rooms are bare, and tracks are deserted. Athletic competitions and practices have no place in the midst of COVID-19.
For some Virginia Tech athletes, this year was the last opportunity to compete for a national wrestling championship, the last chance to showcase their skills before professional scouts, and the last time to wear a maroon and orange jersey.
It also was the first time that these athletes, in the wake of canceled seasons and dashed dreams, could be a part of saving the country from a global pandemic. It's a sacrifice that hasn't gone unnoticed, said Whit Babcock, Virginia Tech's athletic director.
"We're exceedingly proud of all of our Virginia Tech student-athletes and coaches for what they were able to accomplish and the way they have responded to these difficult times," he said. "We continue to support all our athletic programs and we can't wait until we're all able to come back to campus together as Hokies."
(For those who wish to contribute to Virginia Tech Athletics and to support the school's student-athletes, please consider making a gift to the Hokie Scholarship Fund by clicking here.)
Many Hokie athletes are hopeful. Some will return for an added season of eligibility, granted by the NCAA for athletes competing in spring season sports.
Others are making the best of the crisis and moving forward with the next steps in their journey.
To read the remainder of this story, please click here.