Division II Heads to Michigan for Key Road Matchups Against Central Michigan and Grand Valley State

Blacksburg, VA — The Virginia Tech Men’s Lacrosse Division II team will hit the road this weekend for an important trip to Michigan, where they will face Central Michigan on Friday followed by a major matchup with Grand Valley State on Saturday.

The Hokies will open the trip against Central Michigan before preparing for a significant challenge against Grand Valley State, a program ranked in the Top 10 nationally and the runner-up in last year’s National Championship game. The Lakers have built a reputation as one of the premier programs in the country, and the matchup will provide Virginia Tech with another opportunity to test itself against elite competition.

For the Hokies, these types of games are intentional.

“This group continues to challenge itself,” said Head Coach Patrick Droney. “If you want to grow, you have to play great teams and put yourself in environments that force you to elevate your game.”

Virginia Tech has embraced the identity of being Road Warriors this season, traveling long distances and stepping into tough environments to compete. Trips like this one to Michigan are not just about the games themselves, but about the experiences that shape a team over the course of a season.

Traveling together, competing together, and overcoming adversity together are all key components in building the kind of CULTURE the program prides itself on.

“At Virginia Tech we talk a lot about CULTURE,” Droney said. “It’s about brotherhood, accountability, and showing up for each other when things get hard. Road trips test that. They challenge your focus, your toughness, and your ability to stay connected as a team.”

With two games in two days and a Top 10 opponent waiting on Saturday, the Hokies understand the opportunity that lies ahead.

Moments like these are where teams can rise.

“This weekend gives our guys the chance to RISE to the occasion,” Droney said. “When you travel on the road and face great competition, that’s where teams discover what they’re made of.”

As the Hokies head to Michigan, the focus remains on growth, toughness, and continuing to build the identity that defines Virginia Tech Lacrosse.

Virginia Tech will face Central Michigan on Saturday before closing the weekend against Grand Valley State on Sunday as the Hokies look to embrace the challenge and continue their journey as Road Warriors.