BLACKSBURG, Va. — Virginia Tech athletic director Whit Babcock addressed the media for the first time following the dismissal of head football coach Brent Pry. During a press conference held on Tuesday, Babcock discussed the ongoing coaching search and the strategic future of the athletic department. He began by expressing gratitude towards Pry and his family for their dedication during their tenure in Blacksburg, highlighting the former head coach's influence on recruiting efforts within the state of Virginia, his commitment to fostering team culture, and his strong connections with alumni and fans.
However, Babcock acknowledged the reality of college athletics, particularly in the realm of Power Four football, stating that it is fundamentally a results-oriented business. "We obviously didn't win enough football games," he remarked, emphasizing the need for a competitive edge in the sport.
In his remarks, Babcock also extended his appreciation to interim coach Philip Montgomery, who steps into the head coaching role after serving as the offensive coordinator and having experience as a head coach at several other Power Four institutions. "He knows how to lead," Babcock affirmed. "It's a tough situation, but he'll have our full support." This reflects the department's confidence in Montgomery as they navigate this transitional period.
Babcock confirmed that the search for a new head coach for the Hokies is still in its initial phases. A committee will be established, incorporating members from the Board of Visitors, campus leadership, and individuals with in-depth football expertise. Babcock stated that his role would be to support and advise the committee, which he noted would play a significant role in identifying Virginia Tech's next head coach. "This will be a collaborative decision," he said, stressing the importance of alignment among the committee, the president's office, and the Board of Visitors.
During the press conference, Babcock linked the coaching search to broader structural changes within Virginia Tech athletics. He referenced comments made by university president Tim Sands, indicating that Virginia Tech is working towards a new financial and organizational framework. This initiative aims to enhance the university's competitiveness both in the ACC and on a national level. Babcock described a plan that will soon be presented to the Board of Visitors, which may involve adopting a more modernized, business-oriented model for athletics and a professional-style organizational structure specifically for football.
"It has become a $150 to $200 million annual enterprise," Babcock noted, reinforcing the need for the department to improve, evolve, and adapt to the changing landscape of college athletics. "I'm excited for this new era and the forthcoming initiatives and opportunities planned," he added.
In closing, Babcock expressed his gratitude to Virginia Tech's fans, donors, and alumni, recognizing their unwavering support throughout the challenges faced by the football program. "They have been absolutely amazing and they are second to none," he stated. "I sincerely apologize that we haven't stepped up yet and returned the favor with results on the field." Acknowledging the shifting landscape of college football, he emphasized the department's commitment to positioning itself for future success, aiming to stay ahead of the curve rather than playing catch-up.
