Wow, what a heartfelt message from Lyla Blackwell
No, she's not entering the portal, but what an inspiring, insightful message on her Instagram account. Just another example of why we love these young ladies. She is wise beyond her years.
Lyla: "This season taught me to see the game from a completely different perspective. Instead of focusing only on performance or outcomes, I learned how much growth can happen in the moments people don’t always notice.
"I learned how to become a leader even when no one was watching. I found my voice. I built friendships that mean more than stats ever could. I learned that being a great teammate matters just as much as what happens during game time.
"College sports can become so centered around minutes played, performance, and comparison that sometimes we forget why we started playing in the first place. That’s because we genuinely love the game.
"This season taught me that my worth is not defined by playing time, recognition, or a sport. And if there’s one thing I’ll always be proud of, it’s showing up for my team, continuing to grow, and never losing the love I have for the game.
"At the end of the day, some of the best parts of sports have nothing to do with the scoreboard or accolades. It’s the people beside you every single day, the memories you create, and the love and support that comes from being part of something bigger than yourself. Those are the things you’ll cherish most."
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Lyla is a special young lady and as I replied, I'm glad she's a Hokie!
11 Replies
1mo
That's a message all players from all sports on all levels need to hear.
(In response to this post by VTChip)
1mo
Great attitude she has. Coach Pete certainly has assembled a great bunch of players with high character!
(In response to this post by VTChip)
1mo
year but... She may be in the mix, but there will be competition. It will be interesting to see how some of the other freshman or rising sophomores fit into the equation.
Gagliardi has a good bat.
Bishop has outfield experience
Pallante was used a lot as a pinchrunner
Incoming freshman Mylie McCoy was ranked 27 by Extra Innings. She may make a Gabi mizelle-type impact.
Then there are potential transfers. Given some nice names out there, the program would owe itself to pursue some.
(In response to this post by HokieAvalanche)
1mo
I believe it was in the Virginia Tech Magazine last year right after she caught the ball that led to the triple play.
“Once [Virginia Tech] reached out to me, I scheduled a visit and immediately knew it was where I wanted to be,” she said. “Driving onto campus, I felt confident in my decision. You can see mountains in the distance and pastures full of horses and cattle, which reminded me of home.”
(In response to this post by VTChip)
V
VT One
1mo
were standing beyond the left field wall when Lyla’s catch started the triple play. We were talking to two women we met a couple of innings earlier. They were Lyla’s mom and grandmother. It was a very enjoyable moment to be a part of.
(In response to this post by VTChip)
R
RJHokie
1mo
And you are certainly correct, a very special person and a Hokie too!
(In response to this post by VTChip)
1mo
of something bigger than yourself. Makes life worthwhile.
(In response to this post by VTChip)
1mo
professionally (most cant), establish yourself as a college student, grow, live, make friends, get your degree, enjoy the experience, get a job.....
(In response to this post by laphroaig)