BLACKSBURG – With Virginia Tech football alumni and local businesses in attendance this weekend for Tech's annual spring game, presented by PMSI, the Hokies hosted their networking night in Lane Stadium on Thursday.
More than 48 professionals attended, representing prominent companies such as State Farm and Chick-fil-A, alongside local businesses like Sinkland Farms and various Virginia Tech Athletic departments.
"Our goal for this event was really just to put our players in the best position to meet their interests and pursue their career aspirations," Assistant Director of Player Engagement Jayden Rosenboro stated.
The athletes participated in mock interviews with professionals which then transitioned into an open networking opportunity to connect with representatives. Approximately 37 of those professionals were alumni and Letterman, including dual football and baseball alumnus Dr. Abraham 'Billy' Hardee, who spoke to the group to kick off the event.
"The whole purpose of this evening is for you to figure out how to network," Hardee explained. "How to have a conversation hit the ear of the person you're talking to."
The event was highly successful, drawing the highest number of registered professionals and attendees than ever before. This remarkable response underscored the significance of fostering connections within the Hokie community.
"We want all the alumni back that we possibly can. It's so important to continue to invest in the student-athletes that come here, and this is a significant way we can do that," Director of Player Engagement Carrie Lynne Wolford said. "From a community aspect, we tell the guys all the time, Blacksburg is Virginia Tech. These people are shutting down on Saturdays to come to watch them play, so for them to see the players without their helmets on and expand their network is huge."
The turnout saw over 64 student-athletes in attendance, comprising both underclassmen and upperclassmen. Among them, defensive back Dorian Strong viewed the event as an opportunity to step out of his comfort zone and broaden his connections.
"It's helped me a lot—all the connections and the time and effort that people put into place for us," Strong shared. "What's asked of the Virginia Tech staff is a lot, and everybody walks around here with a smile, which just creates a family-friendly environment. My time here has definitely helped me mature and grow into a better man."
Gallery: (4-11-2024) FB: 2024 Networking Night
This marked the first of many events lined up for the Hokies for their spring game weekend, with the game taking place on Saturday at 3 p.m. ET at Lane Stadium. While admission to the Hokies' spring game on Saturday will be complimentary, in collaboration with Triumph NIL and The Hokie Way, fans are encouraged to participate in the NIL initiative of their choosing.
Triumph NIL will conduct a sweepstakes encompassing many exclusive experiences and items fans can enter to win by contributing to each entry, with the option of entering more than once to increase the chances of winning. Check out all of the offerings that are available to enter now. The deadline to enter is Monday, April 15th at noon.