Hokie ClubBLACKSBURG – A cornerstone of Hokies wrestling over the past six years will remain in Blacksburg after an illustrious career donning the maroon and orange, but this time in a different capacity. Virginia Tech wrestling head coach Tony Robie announced the addition of ACC champion and two-time All-American Sam Latona as the program’s recruiting coordinator on Friday, August 29.
“I’m very excited that Sam will be staying in Blacksburg with our program. Throughout his time as an athlete, he has consistently led by example in everything he does. Over the past six years, he has set the standard with his character, work ethic, and commitment. Sam connects effortlessly with everyone he encounters, and his future is incredibly bright. We hope to keep him in Blacksburg for a long time,” said Robie.
Not just a Hokies wrestling fan favorite, but also one of the best Virginia Tech athletics’ student-athletes who embodied what it means to be a Hokie throughout his career, Latona bolsters an impressive coaching staff entering Robie’s ninth year at the helm in Blacksburg. Tech has reined in two top five recruiting classes and five top ten recruiting classes in the past nine seasons.
“This is home! I am beyond ecstatic to stay in Blacksburg and continue to help build our program in any capacity possible,” stated Latona. “This is a special place with exceptional people, and I am grateful to get the opportunity. Go Hokies!”
Latona holds home state lore as the only two-time Division 1 All-American from the state of Alabama. In addition to Latona’s five NCAA qualifications and four ACC finals appearances, the Alabaster, Ala. native is an NWCA Scholar All-American and multiple-time All-ACC Academic selection.