BLACKSBURG, Va. (WDBJ) – On Saturdays in the fall, Virginia Tech football players fight for victory on the field, cheered on by Hokie fans nationwide. But this Tuesday, they were united for a different kind of cause—helping children in the New River Valley sleep better at night.
Thanks to a partnership with the nonprofit Sleep in Heavenly Peace, the Hokies built 40 twin-sized beds for children in need across Montgomery and Pulaski counties.
“It all goes back to our motto: Ut Prosim—That I May Serve,” said head coach Brent Pry. “It runs through our program from top to bottom.”
The initiative highlights not only the team’s commitment to service, but also their focus on unity.
“We’re doubling down on team building right now, and there’s no better example than this,” Pry added.
Linebacker Jaden Keller echoed that sentiment: “It’s a great chance to work together in an assembly line, just like we do on the field. Everyone has a role.”
While community service has long been a part of the Hokies’ off-season culture, this marks the first time the entire team has partnered with Sleep in Heavenly Peace.
“This is the power of teamwork—getting more kids off the floor through a little effort from a lot of people,” said Paul Mele, President of the NRV chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace.
Mele, a proud Hokie himself, said the team’s effort reflects their deep connection to the community.
“Hokie Nation is everywhere, but this is their home turf. And they protect it—not just on Worsham Field, but here in Montgomery and Pulaski counties. That’s what makes this so meaningful.”
Coach Pry agreed: “We’ve got a team full of servant-hearted young men who love to lead, give back, and ask how they can do more. I’m really proud of them today.”
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