In a historic and heartfelt move, former NFL legend and Virginia Tech alumnus Bruce Smith has pledged a staggering $12.2 million to support the development of a new football stadium under Head Coach Brent Pry’s leadership. The donation marks one of the largest single contributions in the university’s athletic history and reinforces Smith’s enduring commitment to the legacy and future of Virginia Tech football.
Smith, a Hall of Fame defensive end and the NFL’s all-time sack leader, has long been a symbol of Hokie pride. His generous gift is not just a testament to his love for the sport, but to his unwavering dedication to the Virginia Tech community. Speaking at the announcement, Smith said, “Virginia pride lives within me wherever I go. I’ve carried the lessons, the spirit, and the pride of this university throughout my life, and I’m committed to supporting its future.”
The new stadium project, championed by Coach Brent Pry, is part of an ambitious vision to modernize Virginia Tech’s athletic facilities and enhance the overall experience for student-athletes and fans alike. The funds from Smith’s donation will be instrumental in jumpstarting the development process, including upgraded training facilities, expanded seating, and state-of-the-art amenities that aim to attract top recruits and elevate the program to national prominence.
Coach Pry expressed his profound gratitude, stating, “Bruce’s support means everything—not just to me and our staff, but to every young man who dreams of playing for Virginia Tech. This is more than a gift. It’s an investment in the future of our program.”
Smith’s generosity sets a powerful precedent for alumni engagement, reflecting a deep-rooted belief that success is built not only on the field, but through community and legacy. As Virginia Tech looks ahead to a bold new chapter in its football journey, the echoes of Bruce Smith’s legendary past will continue to inspire the Hokie nation for generations to come.
