Hokies sign Lithuanian junior national champion for 2017

Tech signs Tomas Vasiliauskas for the 2017-18 season

November 14, 2016

BLACKSBURG – The Virginia Tech track and field and cross country director Dave Cianelli announced Monday that Tomas Vasiliauskas (Marijampole, Lithuania) has signed a National Letter of Intent to join the Hokies for the 2017-18 season.

“I am pleased to welcome Tomas to Virginia Tech,” said associate head track and field coach/throws coach Greg Jack. “Tomas is considered one of the best young hammer throwers in the world, and I believe he has only just begun to realize his talent. We are excited that he chose Virginia Tech. He will make an immediate impact nationally, while continuing our great tradition in the throwing events.”

A native of Marijampole, Lithuania, Vasiliauskas comes to Blacksburg as a Lithuanian junior national champion and holds the Lithuanian junior national record of 74.40 meters (244 feet, 1 inch), a personal-best mark. He also owns the 10th-best throw in the world as of last year. Of note, Vasiliauskas has competed at several International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) World Championships and Youth Olympic Game events.

“I always dreamed of becoming a great athlete,” Vasiliauskas said. “I was very impressed with the environment at Virginia Tech, and I believe this program will help me achieve my athletic goals of representing my country at the Olympic Games, while earning a world class degree. Combining these two important pursuits is very difficult in my country. In my opinion, Virginia Tech is the best university in America!”

The Hokies will open their 2017 indoor season at home with the Virginia Tech Invitational from Jan. 13-14, held at the Rector Fieldhouse, in Blacksburg.

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