BLACKSBURG, Va. (WRIC) — Monday’s dreary weather mirrors the way people in Blacksburg are feeling after the only Virginia Tech head football coach Hokie fans have known for a generation told the world that this season would be his last.
When Frank Beamer made his official announcement, tears came before words.
“Cheryl and I know how fortunate we are to have spent our last 29 years here at Virginia Tech,” Beamer said.
Beamer, who owns the most victories of any active FBS coach, said he just knew this was the right time to go.
“I’ve always said I would know when it’s time, and I think it’s time,” said Beamer, who’s been patrolling the sidelines for Va. Tech since 1987. “If I know something, I’m not very good at keeping a secret, number one, and number two I wouldn’t want to.”
In front of his family, fellow staff and players, Beamer said he hopes this move with unite the Hokie fan base.
“The last thing I want is for Hokies to be divided or going in – I want everybody to be in the same direction,” Beamer said. “I think it’s right in that regard.”
Beamer will finish coaching the 2015 regular season and coach in a bowl game if the Hokies make one. The team likely needs a few more wins to reach a bowl game for the 23rd consecutive season.
On Monday, there was no mention of who will replace him when he’s gone.
The players say the rest of this season is no longer about them.
“We just gotta come out and put ever ounce of energy and passion we have for him,” senior linebacker Sam Rogers said. “It’s not about us any more. It’s definitely about him. It’s always going to be about him here at Virginia Tech.”
Beamer said the hardest part about his looming retirement has nothing to do with football.
“The tough part about retiring is you’re leaving the people you love the most,” he said.
