Inside HOKIE SPORTS | Vol. 12 No. 3 | January 2020

inside.hokiesports.com 7 Tech men’s basketball program gives back to NRV community On Dec. 19, the Virginia Tech men’s basketball program partnered with the Women’s Resource Center of the New River Valley for an event at the Hahn Hurst Basketball Practice Center. The team handed out presents to more than 15 families in attendance, many of whom were dealing with a wide array of personal issues during the holiday season. The Women’s Resource Center of the New River Valley is a non- profit, human service organization whose mission is to implement individual and social change for a violence-free community. The organization provides programs and services to adult and child victims of sexual and domestic violence. “The opportunity for our staff and players to give back to the community is very rewarding,” Tech head coach Mike Young said. “To see the children and parents smiling and having fun is heart-warming for everyone. We are fortunate to have a platform where we can share with others, especially during the holidays.” Jake Woodfin, the Cornerstone Children’s Program Coordinator, collaborated with Stephanie Ballein, the men’s basketball program’s chief of staff, on the event. “It was really cool that the team not only wanted to buy presents, but also took time out of their day to just be there and spend time with the moms and kids,” Woodfin said. “It was awesome to see our families feel safe comfortable and just have fun.” For more information on the Women’s Resource Center of the New River Valley, please check out this website: https://www.wrcnrv.org/. Tech QB named team MVP Virginia Tech quarterback Hendon Hooker was named the team’s most valuable player for the 2019 season in a vote conducted among the players. by Jimmy Robertson Hooker, a redshirt sophomore from Greensboro, North Carolina, turned the Hokies’ season around after head coach Justin Fuente and his staff inserted him into the starting lineup. He started eight games this season, guiding the Hokies to a 6-2 record in his starts. Hooker competed 99 of 162 pass attempts (61.1%) for 1,555 yards, with 13 touchdowns and just two interceptions. He also ran for 356 yards and five touchdowns. “It’s an honor,” Hooker said after throwing two touchdown passes in the Hokies’ 37-30 loss to Kentucky in the Belk Bowl. “I love those guys. I love everyone on the team. Blood couldn’t make us any closer. It’s just an honor to represent them in that way, and for them to look at me as an MVP is really big-time.” 99 Bradley Drive Christiansburg NRV Mall 540-381-8100 www.holidayinn.com/cburgnorth Full Service Restaurant Bar & Grill Game Day Catering. Dine in or Room Service Looking for a “HOKIE HOME” away from HOME? Hugs were common at a holiday event put on by the Tech men’s basketball team and the Women’s Resource Center of the New River Valley.