Hokies kick off spring practice

Coach Justin Fuente and Hokies began practice Tuesday, resume action Thursday

March 22, 2017

BLACKSBURG – Virginia Tech head coach Justin Fuente officially kicked off his second season at the helm of Tech’s football program, as the Hokies began spring practice Tuesday evening.

“It was good to get out on the field and get started,” Fuente said. “We’re a work in progress, so now we know our starting point. There are always some rough edges when you get back to work in the spring. Fortunately, we’ve got 14 more opportunities this spring to continue getting better. Based on past experience, I’d anticipate we’ll be more crisp on Thursday, especially since our new guys have gotten a taste of our tempo and expectations.”

You can check out the highlights here:

PRACTICE 1 HIGHLIGHTS 📽@CoachFuente & the #Hokies conducted the first practice of spring last night.

All the best via @HokieVision 👍🏽 pic.twitter.com/BBu5qwgv3U
— VT Football (@VT_Football) March 22, 2017

The Hokies will conduct their normal strength and conditioning workout Wednesday, and selected members of the squad will address the media before practice number two on Thursday.

Familiar faces in new places

Jimmy Robertson chronicled some of the spring position moves in his preview on Monday. ICYMI, make sure to check out his story here: vthoki.es/VTpresser.

Among the most notable switches to the opposite side of the ball, Divine Deablo has moved from wide receiver to defensive back and is wearing the No. 17 jersey once sported by Pro Bowl safety Kam Chancellor. Former tight end Xavier Burke is now wearing No. 43 and is working on the defensive line. Some non-quarterback new faces to watch during spring include all-around athletes cornerback Caleb Farley, tight end Dalton Keene and running back Terius Wheatley.

Q&A with Coach Fuente

David Hale of ESPN.com conducted a Q&A with Coach Fuente about some key topics for the Hokies this spring. Check it out: bit.ly/FUespn

Hard Hat Awards

Prior to the start of spring practice the Hokies went through a grueling eight-week, offseason strength and conditioning program led by Ben Hilgart and his staff. Here’s a list of Hokies who performed at an elite level during Hilgart’s regiment and received a coveted hard hat:

Xavier Burker

Divine Deablo