Virginia Tech makes Justin Fuente hire official
Virginia Tech announced the hiring of Justin Fuente on Sunday.
News broke Saturday that the Hokies were planning to hire the Memphis coach to replace Frank Beamer, who is retiring at the end of the season. Tech released a statement Sunday confirming the news.
We are thrilled to welcome Justin, Jenny and their three daughters into our Virginia Tech family,” Virginia Tech athletic director Whit Babcock said in a statement. “We identified Coach Fuente as a top candidate early in our process. As our conversations progressed, we then met in person and it became obvious he is the right person to lead our football program. He possesses wisdom beyond his years, as well as a refreshing sense of humility and a calm confidence.
“Justin is a very impressive individual who also happens to be one of the brightest offensive minds in college football. He elevated Memphis to unprecedented heights. His recruiting philosophy is progressive and comprehensive. Coach Fuente has displayed tremendous talent in evaluating players and developing young men as they strive to reach their full potential. Simply put, Coach Fuente exudes all the qualities that Hokies hold near and dear. We are excited to officially welcome Justin Fuente as the leader of the Virginia Tech football program.”
Memphis is 9-3 in 2015 and was 10-3 in 2014. Virginia Tech continued its bowl streak with a win on Saturday against Virginia. It's the 23rd-straight season the Hokies are heading to a bowl game.
The school also confirmed that defensive coordinator Bud Foster would return in his same capacity. Foster has been the Hokies' longtime defensive coach.
“I’ve been privileged to work for a legendary coach who always did it the right way,” Foster said. “I enjoyed that chapter and the success we’ve had, however, I am equally excited for the next chapter and working for Justin. Justin and I share a vision for the future of our program. After spending time together, I’m convinced he’s the right person to continue building on the standard we’ve established at Virginia Tech. I’m truly looking forward to working with him and supporting him.”
Beamer is expected to coach the Hokies' bowl game for his final career game. He has a record of 237-121-1 and is the winningest active coach in FBS college football.
For more Virginia Tech news, visit HokieHaven.com.
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Nick Bromberg is the assistant editor of Dr. Saturday on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at nickbromberg@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter!
