Hokies Respect
Virginia Tech's goal is to achieve a reputation of exemplary hospitality and respect for our opponents and fellow Hokie fans - leading the ACC and nation as a model for hospitality and sportsmanship. Together we must be sensitive to behavior, gestures, language and excessive alcohol consumption that offends fellow fans. The Hokie Nation can be a leader in hospitality with the personal commitment of every fan.
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Spring 2006 Alma Mater:
Commentary by Tom Tillar, Vice President for Alumni Relations
"A different topic of growing concern to those of us at the university is the standard of SPORTSMANSHIP and FAN BEHAVIOR at major athletic games on campus. I am pleased that our Alumni Association and other groups have seized this issue as one they wish to tackle and attempt to improve."
"Our Alumni Association leadership is convinced that the time is now to aspire to be better in sportsmanship. And the time is now to demonstrate for our opponents that we have the integrity and decency to set a higher standard of fan behavior for our stadium and coliseum. We want those who visit our campus to compliment Hokies on how we receive visiting team members and their fans. We strive to be exemplary in both wins and defeats. That, too, will become part of our "Invent the Future" brand."
James E. Smith '66
Past President, Virginia Tech Alumni Association
"Sometimes the pride or disappointment shows itself in unfortunate ways... verbal abuse and disrespect to others. As Hokies, our center of existence is the campus War Memorial and its eight pylons representing our common values. It is intrinsic in our heritage that sportsmanship, civility, leadership and service are a part of who we are. Anything short of this standard has the potential to bring great discredit to Virginia Tech and us as individuals. We must stay on the high road. As alumni, whether young or old, it is our responsibility to lead, to be respectful of others, and to set the proper example. We should welcome visitors to our campus as we would to our homes."