The Roanoke Valley Sports Club held their annual pre-season football banquets at Hidden Valley Country Club as members and guests were entertained by the states two most prominent college coaches.
Last Thursday, UVA Head Coach Al Groh was the guest speaker, giving a preview of the upcoming Cavalier season. Groh also talked about the ACC media tour, then turned the tables on the audience by being the one asking the questions and going into the crowd to solicit answers and opinions. Groh has appeared as a guest speaker of the club more than anyone else with ten engagements.
On Monday night, the Hokies got their turn with the appearance of Head Coach Frank Beamer. Beamer clearly has high expectations for the upcoming team and talked about new recruits and the daunting task of opening the season in Atlanta against Alabama. He laughingly skirted a question posed about when he might retire.
The Roanoke Valley Sports Club typically meets the third Monday of each month at the Salem Civic Center, with an assortment of speakers from various sports. Those interested in attending and becoming members can contact John Montgomery at 761-6751 or Tom Marchi at 772-7787.
Story and Photo by Bill Turner
