Collegiate Times

The tragedy that struck the Virginia Tech campus on April 16 has undeniably affected every branch of the university. The athletic department is no different. Media attention, curious stares at competition, and increased pressure have affected and will continue to affect Virginia Tech athletes over the coming seasons. The pressure influenced a few Virginia Tech athletes to continue their athletics elsewhere.

Hokie football confirmed the loss of two athletes in the wake of the April 16 tragedy. Rising redshirt junior tailback George Bell has been given a release from the team at personal request. Over the 2005 and 2006 seasons, Bell recorded 77 carries for 299 yards and 4 touchdowns. Bell looks to continue his career at Division II Catawba College in North Carolina where he will likely increased playing time. Bell battled many injuries during his time in Blacksburg and will look to improve in the new surroundings. Bell cited playing time, not April 16, as his reason for leaving.

Freshman tight end Brandon Barden has also decided to transfer from the Hokie football team. Barden, a 6-5, 211 pound freshman, graduated early from high school this January and participated in spring practice for the Hokies. Barden spent his first semester at Virginia Tech living in West Ambler Johnston Hall, the site of the first shooting. Like all of the recent transfers, Barden has not publicly claimed that the tragedy is his reason for departure, but it is likely that April 16 was a contributing influence. Brandon’s mother Becky gave this quote to the Nashville City Paper, “I know (the shootings) had an impact, and I know it bothered him, but I don’t know if that’s all of it.” Barden will likely continue his football career at Vanderbilt this fall.

Basketball recruit Gus Gilchrist will also be deciding to continue his career elsewhere this fall. The promising center out of Temple Hills, MD recently decided to rescind his letter of intent from the Hokie basketball team. Gilchrist had this to say to the Washington Post about his decision, “The campus needs time to mourn the first year. I don’t know if I’m prepared to do that next year.” The 6-9, 240 pound star center must now wait on two contributing factors for his future next winter. Coach Seth Greenburg may voluntary release Gilchrist from his letter of intent and he will be allowed to play next winter. He will also be permitted to play next winter if Virginia Tech denies him admissions for the fall semester. If Coach Greenburg denies voluntary release and he is admitted to Virginia Tech, then Gilchrist will be forced to sit out a year of basketball.

Virginia Tech athletes in every sport will continue to wear the colors burnt orange and Chicago maroon with an increased pressure and responsibility. Hopefully, future recruiting prospects will not shy away from this university and the Hokie athletic program will continue to excel.