All Hokie, All the Time. Period. Presented by First Bank & Trust Company

VTChip VTChip OP
Apr 25, 2026 at 01:27 PM ET
Dang allergies! Kylie’s Dad’s Facebook Post to her ❤️❤️❤️
He has every right to be proud. She is a special young lady. And a born leader. Kylie, From the moment you first picked up a glove and stepped onto that dusty little field, I could see the spark in your eyes. You weren’t just playing a game—you were falling in love with something that would shape you in ways none of us could have imagined. I remember those first practices, when your glove seemed almost bigger than your hand, and the ball felt heavy, but your determination was already stronger than anything else. Over the years, I’ve watched you grow—not just in skill, but in character. I’ve seen you run onto the field with that same fire in your eyes, whether it was a championship game or a scrimmage on a hot summer afternoon. I’ve seen you push through injuries, fight through slumps, and keep showing up even when it would have been easier to quit. That’s the kind of strength that can’t be taught—it comes from within. College softball has been a journey filled with unforgettable moments. I’ve cheered for you from the stands in the blazing sun and in the biting cold, our hearts pounding with every pitch, every swing, every play. I’ve seen you celebrate the big wins with your teammates, and I’ve seen you hold your head high after tough losses, knowing that the game is about more than the scoreboard. You’ve learned to lead—not just with your voice, but with your example. You’ve learned that being part of a team means lifting others up, even when you’re carrying your own weight. I’ve also seen the sacrifices you’ve made—the early mornings when the rest of the world was still asleep, the long bus rides, the weekends spent on the road instead of at home. You’ve balanced practices, games, classes, and life with a grace that amazes me. And through it all, you’ve never lost your love for the game or your joy in playing it. As you stand here on senior night, wearing your jersey for one of the last times, I hope you take a moment to soak it all in—the cheers, the hugs, the memories. This chapter may be closing, but the lessons you’ve learned and the person you’ve become will carry you into whatever comes next. The discipline, resilience, and heart you’ve shown on the field will serve you in every part of your life. Remember don’t cry because it’s coming to an end but smile because it happened. I am so proud of you—not just for the athlete you’ve become, but for the woman you are. You are strong, compassionate, determined, and kind. You’ve inspired your teammates, your coaches, and everyone who’s had the privilege of watching you play. And you’ve inspired us most of all. I want you to remember these words from Country band Rascal Flatts; My wish for you, is that life becomes all that you wan it to. Your dreams stay big, your worries stay small, you never need to carry more than you can hold and while you’re out there getting where you’re getting to. I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same thing too, Yeah, this is my wish. No matter where life takes you, know that I will always be in your corner, cheering you on. You will always be my MVP, my champion, and my little girl who once dreamed big and worked even bigger to make those dreams come true. Let’s remember we still have some unfinished business. With all my love, pride, and admiration, Dad WOW. JUST WOW! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

6 Replies

V
Virginiawinc
3mo
🥹🥹
G
gelded turkey
3mo
Wow, what a powerful post!!!
Tell me he wasn't tearing up as he wrote this!!! Mr Aldridge, thank you for sharing your daughter with us VT softball fans these past four years. She is a very special young lady and she will do well with whatever the next chapter in her life brings. Kylie is the EPITOME of why these ladies are so much fun to root for and support. Kylie (and really all of these ladies) to me represent what college athletics (athletes) should all be about - COLLEGE STUDENTS playing a sport they love simply for the passion and love of the game and the camaraderie with their teammates.
H
HokieAvalanche
3mo
You said it Chip! WOW! Gotta a feeling Kylie's not finished....just yet!!!
H
HokieNL
3mo
+1000
laphroaig laphroaig
3mo
I've learned Vernon is a man of few words, that when he speaks he has
a purpose and those words truly have great meaning. That Facebook post is proof. Long by most standards but the purpose and impact are undeniably powerful. Honored to know the man!
A
ancient alien 2018
3mo
Dang it, this Oak pollen is overworking my tear ducts!!!!!!!