BLACKSBURG – Virginia Tech football held its second practice of spring ball open to the fans at Lane Stadium on Saturday and Hokie Nation showed up in a big way to support their football team.
Filing in at 11:30 a.m. at Gate 6, the fans sat on the west side and gathered in the middle to watch the Hokies do 1-on-1 drills, passing skeleton and more. With it being upper-60s and sunny, you really couldn't beat it for those hungry for some football.
"It was great," Vernon Harris from Roanoke said. "It was the first time I can remember there being an open practice to the entire public. I think the whole fanbase is enthused with Coach Pry and how he's been involved and keeping the fans involved, because I know I am. I'm rejuvenated."
Vernon, who has been coming to Tech football games for nearly 40 years, wasn't the only one happy to be there and given access to watch the team compete on a non-gameday.
"It's been awesome," said Ben Vogt, who is a senior at Tech and is from Front Royal, Virginia. "I love that he's starting to bring this to the fans, because everyone wants to see a practice. The spring game is awesome, but I don't think it's enough for the fans, because we always want more."
Alums of the program were in attendance as well and enjoyed being able to watch their squad together.
Can't forget about @j_mitch82, @Lecitus_54, @luke_tenuta & @tre11turner 🤞 pic.twitter.com/a2GDd4APwk
— Virginia Tech Football (@HokiesFB) March 19, 2022
Head coach Brent Pry also met with meet with the media after practice and was pleased with today's effort from his group.
"We were much better than yesterday," Pry said. "We want to challenge our guys in every area that we can. We want to contest every catch, fight for every extra yard. Right now, that's all we are talking about. But it's important to have fun. That's why these guys play this game and they're excited to be out here."
Tech will be back in action for spring ball on Tuesday for its third practice so far. Be sure to be there for the spring game, presented by PMSi, on Saturday, April 16 at Lane Stadium. For more details.
Gallery: (3-19-2022) FB: Open Practice