Vick signs autographs ahead of induction into Virginia Tech Sports Hall of Fame

Vick was at B&C Sports in Lynchburg at River Ridge Mall

LYNCHBURG, Va. – Michael Vick was in Lynchburg Thursday night to sign autographs ahead of his induction into Virginia Tech's Hall of Fame on Friday.

The university's decision to induct the former Hokies and NFL quarterback has been met with serious backlash since it was announced in early July, but Vick says he doesn't let the controversy bother him too much.

"You can't feed too much into what people's opinions are and what they think. You know, you just have to live your life, move forward and continue to try to make change. That's what I'm trying to do," said Vick.

Two weeks ago, two online petitions were handed to the university with more than 200,000 signatures asking Virginia Tech President Tim Sands to reconsider the decision, but fans and supporters at B&C Sports say he's paid his dues.

"He was convicted in a court of law by a jury of his peers. He did his time and from that point on, it shouldn't matter. He's a true story of redemption," one Vick supporter said.

Vick's athletic accomplishments were overshadowed in 2007 when he was convicted for his role in a dogfighting ring. 

Regardless of the controversy surrounding his induction, Vick is excited and honored by his upcoming induction.

"It's always great when you are accepted and your efforts are appreciated, so you know, I'm just gonna soak in the moment and enjoy seeing the people who helped me get to this point in my life and try to enjoy every minute of it because these type of moments don't last forever,"  Vick said.

The former No. 1 one NFL draft pick, who played for Atlanta, Philadelphia, New York Jets and Pittsburgh during his 13-year pro career, is scheduled to join Tim Buheller (baseball), Zabian Dowdell (basketball), Megan Evans (softball) and Ben Taylor (football) this weekend in the hall.

A dinner is scheduled for Friday night and the class will be introduced Saturday at halftime of the Old Dominion game.


About the Author:

Eric is no stranger to the Roanoke Valley. He is a Roanoke native and proud graduate of William Fleming High School.