ESPN REPORT: Virginia Tech’s Brent Pry Signs Groundbreaking $5M Powerade Deal — Donates $1 Million to Hokies Program and Thousands to Orphanages, Cementing a Legacy On and Off the Field
In a powerful demonstration of leadership, integrity, and generosity, Virginia Tech head football coach Brent Pry has signed a groundbreaking $5 million endorsement deal with global sports drink giant Powerade, becoming one of the first major college football coaches to ink such a high-profile name, image, and likeness (NIL)-aligned sponsorship. But in a move that stunned and inspired fans nationwide, Pry announced that he would donate $1 million of his earnings back to the Virginia Tech football program — and contribute thousands more to orphanages throughout Virginia.
The deal, hailed as a first-of-its-kind partnership between a collegiate head coach and an international brand, is set to run over five years and includes national advertising campaigns, athlete development initiatives, and nutrition programs. Pry’s partnership will also support NIL awareness and community outreach projects aimed at student-athletes.
“This Is Bigger Than Me”
Speaking during a press conference at Virginia Tech’s athletic center, Pry made it clear that his focus is on uplifting others, not just personal gain.
> “This is bigger than me,” Pry said. “It’s about building something that lasts at Virginia Tech — and more importantly, giving hope to the people who need it most. I’ve been blessed, and it’s my duty to pass that blessing forward.”
The $1 million donation will directly fund improvements to Virginia Tech’s football training facilities, scholarship support, and leadership development initiatives for players. According to Athletic Director Whit Babcock, this gift will “fast-track crucial upgrades that will give Hokie athletes every resource to compete at the highest level.”
Touching Lives Beyond the Gridiron
In addition to investing in the football program, Pry has pledged significant personal donations to orphanages and youth homes across Virginia. Partnering with local non-profits and faith-based organizations, his contributions will provide educational materials, athletic equipment, clothing, and mentorship programming for underprivileged children.
One orphanage director in Roanoke was moved to tears during a televised interview, saying, “Coach Pry didn’t have to think about us, but he did. What he’s giving these kids is more than resources — it’s hope.”
Building a Program, Shaping a Legacy
Since becoming Virginia Tech’s head coach in 2021, Brent Pry has worked tirelessly to rebuild the Hokies into a force of grit, character, and competitiveness. Known for his passionate energy and defensive mastery, Pry has also been praised for his holistic approach — ensuring his players grow as people as well as athletes.
This latest move only reinforces that ethos.
ESPN analysts and college football insiders lauded Pry’s actions, calling him a “leader by example” and a “game-changer in how coaches use their platform.” Many believe this type of coach-brand partnership could set a new precedent across college sports — especially when tied to charitable giving.
Hokie Nation Responds
Fans across Virginia Tech and the broader ACC community flooded social media with praise, using hashtags like #PoweradePry, #HokieHeart, and #CoachOfThePeople.
With this bold endorsement, his transformative generosity, and a burning desire to elevate every player and person around him, Brent Pry isn’t just coaching a team — he’s building a legacy.
And now, both on the field and far beyond it, that legacy is
Powerade-powered — and Hokie-proud.
