When it comes to Virginia Tech football, there is one name that stands out above all others – Michael Vick. The former Hokie quarterback is considered by many to be the greatest player in the history of the program. So when his family speaks, the Hokie community listens. That’s why when James Franklin, the new head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions, visited Blacksburg on Wednesday, all eyes were on him. And it was only fitting that Dwight Vick, Michael’s brother and a proud Virginia Tech alum, was the first to greet him.
As Franklin walked into Lane Stadium, he was met with the iconic sound of “Enter Sandman” blaring through the speakers. It’s a tradition that has become synonymous with Virginia Tech football and one that has struck fear into the hearts of opposing teams for years. But for Franklin, it was a moment of excitement and anticipation as he prepared to meet with the Vick family.
The meeting between Franklin and the Vick family was an exclusive one, with no media present. But thanks to Dwight Vick, we now have some insight into what was discussed during their time together. In an interview with EssentiallySports, Dwight revealed the truth behind the meeting and what it means for the future of Virginia Tech football.
First and foremost, Dwight made it clear that the meeting was not just about football. It was about family and the bond that the Vick family shares with Virginia Tech. “We wanted to welcome Coach Franklin to the Hokie family and show him what Virginia Tech is all about,” Dwight said. “We wanted to let him know that we are here to support him and the team in any way we can.”
But of course, football was also a topic of discussion. Dwight, who played for Virginia Tech from 1999 to 2003, shared his thoughts on what he believes Franklin can bring to the program. “He’s a great coach with a proven track record of success,” Dwight said. “He’s a great leader and motivator, and I believe he can take Virginia Tech to the next level.”
Dwight also spoke about the importance of recruiting and how Franklin’s experience and connections can help bring top talent to Virginia Tech. “Recruiting is the lifeblood of any program, and Coach Franklin has a great eye for talent,” Dwight said. “He has a strong network of coaches and recruiters, and I have no doubt that he will bring in some of the best players in the country.”
But perhaps the most intriguing part of the meeting was when Dwight and Michael shared their experiences as former Hokies. Michael, who played for Virginia Tech from 1999 to 2000, is still considered a legend in Blacksburg. And Dwight, who followed in his brother’s footsteps, also left his mark on the program. “We talked about our time at Virginia Tech and how it shaped us into the men we are today,” Dwight said. “We also shared some of our favorite memories and what it means to be a Hokie.”
Dwight also revealed that Michael gave Franklin some valuable advice on how to handle the pressure and expectations that come with coaching at Virginia Tech. “Michael knows what it’s like to be in the spotlight at Virginia Tech, and he wanted to share his wisdom with Coach Franklin,” Dwight said. “He told him to stay true to himself and to always put the team first.”
As a proud Virginia Tech alum, Dwight is excited about the future of the program under Coach Franklin. He believes that with the support of the Vick family and the entire Hokie community, Virginia Tech can once again become a powerhouse in college football. “We are all behind Coach Franklin and the team,” Dwight said. “We can’t wait to see what the future holds for Virginia Tech football.”
In the end, the meeting between the Vick family and Coach Franklin was a special moment for all involved. It was a chance for the Vicks to welcome a new member into the Hokie family and for Coach Franklin to learn more about the rich history and traditions of Virginia Tech football. And as Dwight Vick said, “Once a Hokie, always a Hokie.” And with Coach Franklin at the helm, the future looks bright for the Hokies.