Updates on a couple of our local kids now on the college football scene and I remember these guys all the way back when they were at Aycock Middle School. Updates courtesy of their mom Mary Via, a football savvy lady. Thanks Mary!
Michael Via just finished up spring ball at Virginia Tech with the Spring Game last Saturday. As you know, he redshirted last season as an offensive tackle, working primarily on the scout team. Since his trip to the Orange Bowl (which was a pretty amazing experience for all of us!), he has gained 25 lbs. of muscle in Tech’s off-season lifting and conditioning program, putting him at 6-6, 285. Going into the spring season, the coaches decided they needed to move him to center because the senior center was graduating and there was only one other with game experience. He has learned the position easily both with his quick feet and football savvy (ie coach’s son!). In the Spring Game, he started at center for the Maroon squad, which won 13-7. At halftime, he was awarded a trophy by the coaches for being one of the most improved players during winter and spring workouts. He was the only freshman recognized with an award. A picture is linked below. He will be going to both sessions of summer school at VT to continue his studies andto gain more strength. http://www.beamerball.com/free/new2009springawards.htm
Meanwhile, Stephen Via will be a redshirt junior at Carson-Newman this fall. He also had a really productive winter and spring and is now at 6-3, 220. After a very successful spring practice, he earned first team status at tight end for the Eagles. They finished ranked in the Division II top 20 in 2008 and hope to go further in the playoffs in 2009. It’s been a top notch program in Division II for many years and they are now enjoying a new state-of-the-art football center dedicated to their head coach, Ken Sparks. Stephen will be attending the second session of summer school with his teammates in July before camp starts up in August. Hope you have enjoyed the updates…..Go Eagles, Go Hokies!
*****If anyone has other news for us in this neighborhood. please send it our way.*****
Known them both since they played for Brantley Edwards at Lewis Rec Center. Fine young men. Wish them both the best!
Great guys. It is genetic. Their parents are two of the nicest people I know.