Brent Pry Crowned National Coach of the Year: Virginia Tech’s Visionary Leader Honored for Transformative Impact
In a moment that will go down in Virginia Tech history as a defining chapter in its football legacy, Brent Pry has been named National Coach of the Year, earning the sport’s highest individual coaching honor after orchestrating one of the most inspiring and transformative turnarounds in recent college football memory.
Pry, who took over a Hokies program searching for identity, direction, and renewed energy, has done more than just win games—he’s rebuilt a culture, reignited a fanbase, and redefined what it means to lead with both brilliance and heart. His recognition comes not just for racking up wins, but for his unwavering belief in developing players as people first, and his commitment to excellence grounded in humility and hard work.
A Vision Realized
When Brent Pry arrived in Blacksburg, skeptics questioned whether he could steer the Hokies back to national relevance. Just a few seasons later, he’s proven not only that it was possible—but that Virginia Tech belongs among the elite.
Under Pry’s leadership, the Hokies have surged back into the national spotlight. With a revitalized offense, a disciplined and ferocious defense, and a locker room culture that has become the envy of programs across the country, Pry has engineered one of the most compelling success stories in recent memory.
This past season, Virginia Tech posted its best record in over a decade, secured signature wins against top-ranked opponents, and earned a berth in a New Year’s Six bowl—all achievements that seemed distant dreams when Pry first took over.
Coaching with Character
But what truly sets Brent Pry apart—and what earned him the unanimous support of the National Coach of the Year selection committee—is his coaching philosophy rooted in character, connection, and community.
“Brent Pry isn’t just building a winning football team,” said one committee member. “He’s building young men of integrity and resilience. He’s elevating an entire university. And he’s doing it with humility, grace, and a fierce competitive spirit.”
Pry’s connection to his players is legendary. Walk-ons, transfers, and four-star recruits all speak about the same thing: his belief in them as people, not just performers. Team captains have shared how Pry meets one-on-one with every player regularly—not just to talk football, but to ask about their families, goals, and well-being.
A New Gold Standard
The award solidifies Pry’s place among the greats of the game—but for the Virginia Tech faithful, it simply confirms what they’ve known all along: that their head coach is the real deal.
“Coach Pry changed everything,” said Hokies quarterback Jalen Morris. “He made us believe in ourselves and each other. He’s the heart of this team.”
Fans across Hokie Nation celebrated the news with viral posts, murals, and plans for a Brent Pry Day in Blacksburg. His impact goes beyond Xs and Os—it touches every corner of the university and reverberates through the stands at Lane Stadium with every “Enter Sandman” entrance.
Looking Ahead
With this national honor, Brent Pry joins the pantheon of legendary college football coaches—but if you ask him, he’s just getting started.
“This award isn’t about me,” Pry said. “It’s about our players, our staff, and our incredible fans. Virginia Tech is special—and the best is yet to come.”
