Virginia Tech Division I Men’s Lacrosse Opens 2026 Season with Purpose

Blacksburg, Va. — Practice officially opened this week for Virginia Tech Men's Lacrosse, marking the start of a new season defined by hunger, accountability, and respect for the program’s proud tradition.

The Hokies begin the year ranked No. 16 nationally, a position that reflects both the talent within the locker room and the work still ahead. After narrowly missing qualification for the National Tournament last spring, the message entering opening day was clear: this group is motivated, focused, and ready to earn everything in front of them.

“We don’t run from last year — we learn from it,” said Head Coach Panchito Ojeda. “This team understands what it feels like to fall just short, and that experience has sharpened the edge across the roster.”

That edge will be tested immediately. Virginia Tech faces one of the most demanding schedules in the country, with early-season matchups designed to prepare the Hokies for a deep postseason run. The schedule is intentional — built to challenge, develop, and reveal who this team is when things get hard.

Despite the hunger driving the program forward, the foundation remains unchanged. Opening day emphasized the standards that have long defined Hokies lacrosse: discipline, toughness, selflessness, and pride in wearing the uniform. Alumni banners, traditions, and expectations serve as daily reminders that each season is a continuation of something bigger than any single team.

“We honor the past by how we work today,” Ojeda added. “This program was built on doing things the right way, and this group is committed to carrying that forward.”

With a veteran core, emerging leaders, and renewed urgency, Virginia Tech enters the season determined to turn lessons into results. Practice may be the first step, but the tone has been set — this is a team ready to compete, ready to grind, and ready to represent Hokies lacrosse at the highest level.

The season is officially underway in Blacksburg.