BLACKSBURG, VA -
When Virginia Tech defensive back, Michael Cole got hit during a game against Florida State, many fans may not have realized it would be the last time he played football.
Cole says, "It was just kind of routine play, a routine tackle is what it looks like to me."
But that hit forced him to sit out the last three games of the season.
He says "I felt like I got better as the season went on so for me to go down like that so sudden, really kind of hurt me mentally. I was improving and getting better and sitting on the sidelines last three games was tough."
Eventually that injury lead to surgery with Carilion Clinic Spine Surgeon, Doctor John Carmouche at the beginning of this year. While sitting on the sidelines was tough last season, it is a role he will embrace this fall.
Virginia Tech Head Football Coach, Frank Beamer says no matter what Cole is an asset.
He says, "We want to keep him around. We want to get him involved with recruiting around here he is such a good ambassador."
Cole says, "Hopefully, with the team doctors or Mike our trainer I will be able to kind of stick with the team. Being a part of the team running out of the tunnel has been a dream come true. I really can't be happier."
Even though he won't be on the field, that dream will continue.
Coach Beamer says, "He's a Hokie. He is not going to be playing but he is going to be around here and we are going to take care of him."
From his time at Cave Spring High School to Lane Stadium, an injury isn't taking away his Hokie home.
