Virginia Tech Pulls Away from Fork Union in Fall Scrimmage

FORK UNION, Va. — Virginia Tech Men’s Lacrosse opened its fall competition with a strong showing against Fork Union Military Academy, pulling away from the Blue Devils for a 20-12 victory.

The Hokies got off to a slower start than they would have liked, holding a narrow 4-3 advantage after the opening quarter. Virginia Tech found its rhythm in the second, however, outscoring FUMA 7-1 in the period to take an 11-4 lead into halftime.

The Hokies continued to control the game coming out of the break, extending the advantage to 15-5 through three quarters before Fork Union closed the gap in the fourth.

Virginia Tech received strong performances throughout the lineup, led by faceoff specialists Rick Valente ('27) and Patrick Winkert ('27), who helped the Hokies control possession and create opportunities throughout the afternoon. In goal, Gavin Larsen ('27) anchored the defense with a strong performance in the cage.

The scrimmage also provided Virginia Tech's coaching staff with an opportunity to get an extended look at a large group of young players competing for roles within the program.

“I really liked the effort we played with and the way our guys competed,” Virginia Tech Head Coach Panchito Ojeda said. “Obviously, there are plenty of things we need to clean up, which is exactly what you want to find out during the fall. But right now, our focus isn't on results. It is on building our CULTURE, establishing the habits we want to carry into the spring, and learning how to play together. I was especially encouraged by the impact a lot of our young and new players had. They stepped onto the field, competed, and showed they can contribute to what we are building.”

The Hokies are using the fall season to integrate a large group of newcomers while continuing to build on the standard established within the program.

Virginia Tech would like to thank Fork Union Military Academy for hsoting us.