Whit Babcock outlines Virginia Tech’s coaching search, department overhaul in first remarks since Pry’s firing

BLACKSBURG, Va. — Virginia Tech athletic director Whit Babcock spoke publicly for the first time since the dismissal of head football coach Brent Pry, addressing the coaching search and the department's strategic future during a press conference on Tuesday.

Babcock began by thanking Pry and his family for their three plus seasons in Blacksburg, noting the former head coach's impact on recruiting within Virginia, his investment in team culture and his connection to alumni and fans. But, he acknowledged, "college sports, especially Power Four football, is a results-oriented business and we obviously didn't win enough football games."

Babcock also expressed gratitude to interim coach Philip Montgomery, who steps into the role after previously serving as offensive coordinator and head coach at multiple Power Four stops. "He knows how to lead," Babcock said. "It's a tough situation, but he'll have our full support."

Coaching search underway

Babcock confirmed the Hokies' search process is still in its preliminary stages. A committee will be formed with representation from the Board of Visitors, campus leadership and individuals with extensive football backgrounds. Babcock said his role will be to "support and advise" while the committee carries "tremendous weight" in identifying Tech's next head coach.

"This will be a collaborative decision," he added, noting the importance of alignment between the committee, the president's office and the Board of Visitors.

Athletic department restructuring

In his remarks, Babcock tied the search to larger structural changes within Virginia Tech athletics. He referenced comments from president Tim Sands that the university is working toward a new financial and organizational framework designed to keep Tech competitive in the ACC and nationally.

Babcock said the plan, which will soon go before the Board of Visitors, could involve a more modernized, businesslike model for athletics and a professional-style organizational structure on the football side.

"It has become a $150 to $200 million annual enterprise," Babcock said. "We will improve, evolve and adapt to this new landscape successfully. I'm excited for this new era and the forthcoming initiatives and opportunities planned."

Message to Hokie Nation

Babcock closed by thanking Virginia Tech's fans, donors and alumni, acknowledging their continued support and expressing regret for the on-field struggles.

"They have been absolutely amazing and they are second to none," he said. "I sincerely apologize that we haven't stepped up yet and returned the favor with results on the field. The paradigm of the college football landscape has obviously changed, and we are better positioning ourselves for success to be ahead of the curve rather than chasing behind it."

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