A highly anticipated Spring Game for the Virginia football team took place this past Saturday. The event was in some ways much like every Spring Game, providing the first opportunity for coaches to analyze their new team in a game-like setting, but this game had importance for reasons that go far beyond the action between the white lines.

Saturday marked the first time the Hoos laced up in Scott Stadium since November’s tragic shooting that took the lives of D’Sean Perry, Lavel Davis Jr., and Devin Chandler. It also marked the return of Mike Hollins, who was once hospitalized in critical condition and required multiple surgeries to address injuries suffered in that same shooting.

Emotions pre-game were understandably high as players took the field. There was a beautiful moment of silence for the fallen men and a lovely tribute honoring them in the north end zone. Hollins, with his little brother by his side, received a standing ovation from the crowd as he was introduced in the starting lineup.

Though April 15, 2023 will be remembered as a triumph with meaning beyond the game of football, there was still a football game played, and a rather important one at that. This game gave Wahoo fans a first glimpse at where the team sits headed into the fall. Players got to showcase the work they put in during the first part of the offseason cycle, and coaches got a chance to see how their teachings in practice transitioned into a game.

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