OFFICIAL: Virginia Tech Appoints Jeffrey Eaton as New Associate Director of Strength and Conditioning
Virginia Tech Athletics has officially announced the hiring of Jeffrey Eaton as the new Associate Director of Strength and Conditioning. The appointment marks a significant addition to the Hokies’ athletic performance staff, reinforcing the university’s commitment to building elite-level training programs for its student-athletes across all sports.
Eaton, a seasoned strength and conditioning professional with over 15 years of collegiate and professional experience, joins the Hokies after a successful stint at the University of South Carolina, where he served as the Director of Football Performance. During his tenure, South Carolina saw notable gains in player development, injury reduction, and on-field performance. Known for his science-backed training techniques and player-first philosophy, Eaton is widely respected in the industry as both a leader and mentor.
“Jeffrey Eaton brings an incredible depth of knowledge, energy, and passion for athlete development,” said Virginia Tech Director of Athletics Whit Babcock. “His impact at every stop in his career speaks volumes, and we’re excited for the positive influence he’ll bring to our strength and conditioning program.”
In his new role, Eaton will work closely with Director of Strength and Conditioning Ben Hilgart, overseeing strength programs across multiple sports while also serving as a key resource for student-athlete wellness, nutrition coordination, and performance data analysis. His focus will not only be on developing physical strength and conditioning but also on fostering mental toughness and leadership among Virginia Tech athletes.
“I’m honored and grateful to be joining the Virginia Tech family,” Eaton said in a statement released Thursday morning. “This university has a storied athletic tradition and an incredible culture. I’m eager to get to work with the talented athletes, coaches, and staff here in Blacksburg and help push Hokie Athletics to new heights.”
Eaton holds a Master’s Degree in Exercise Science and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). Beyond his credentials, Eaton is widely regarded for his ability to connect with student-athletes on a personal level and instill a culture of discipline and accountability.
Players he’s worked with in the past have gone on to succeed at both the collegiate and professional levels, often citing Eaton’s guidance as a major factor in their development. His arrival at Virginia Tech is already generating buzz among current Hokie athletes, who are eager to embrace his dynamic and personalized approach to training.
“Coach Eaton is a game-changer,” said one current Virginia Tech athlete. “He pushes you, but he also listens. He knows how to bring the best out of everyone, no matter the sport.”
As the Hokies prepare for the 2025 season across all sports, the addition of Jeffrey Eaton signals a forward-thinking step for the program’s performance and wellness department. With a fresh perspective and proven track record, Eaton’s presence promises to elevate Virginia Tech’s training environment and further strengthen its athletic foundation for years to come.
