Inside HOKIE SPORTS | Vol. 13 No. 5 | May 2021

The recruiting game has changed dramatically in just the last decade. Today, recruiting is all about relationship building because technology has given every program in the country access to the same talent pool. To remain competitive in a crowded space, Virginia Tech has to take the necessary steps of committing time and staff to building relationships with prospects. Currently, we have six staff members dedicated to recruiting efforts. To put that into perspective, other conference foes have roughly ten individuals solely focused on bringing in the next class. During the season, we invite around 150 prospects each week to experience the atmosphere of Lane Stadium and Blacksburg on gameday. The excitement and energy that Hokie Nation brings never disappoints, but to continue developing those relationships, we would like to dedicate full-time staff to be on-hand throughout the game to facilitate questions and provide additional hospitality. Every member of Hokie Nation can play a role in our recruiting efforts by giving to the Reach for Excellence campaign. With the funds generated, we can increase our recruiting efforts in the highly talented areas across the country and here at home in Virginia. inside.hokiesports.com 7 A s an alum of Virginia Tech, I know that Blacksburg is a special place to call home. Hokie Nation has always been supportive of our student-athletes, and we need your help securing the next generation of Hokies. The competition for high school talent has increased, and to remain competitive in an ever-changing landscape, we need more resources devoted to building relationships with the next generation of Virginia Tech football student-athletes as we continue to reach for excellence. Justin Hamilton Defensive Coordinator & Safeties Coach R eturning to Virginia Tech has been a dream come true, and I want to help the next group of guys fulfill their dreams of playing for the Hokies. Our program has been built on a foundation of hard work, and under Coach Fuente we have continued to recruit and develop young men who exhibit that Hard Hat mentality. I am excited to help this program reach the next step in competing for championships, but we need your help as we look to sign the talent that will take Virginia Tech football from good to great. JC Price Christian Darrisaw Caleb Farley RECRUITING FOOTBALL ENHANCEMENT Co-Defensive Line Coach/ Defensive Recruiting Coordinator