Dominican Republic Olympian Javier Núñez Headed to Virginia Tech for 2025
In a major addition to its growing international athletic pipeline, Virginia Tech has officially landed Dominican Republic Olympian Javier Núñez for the 2025 season. Núñez, who has represented his country on the international stage with distinction, is expected to bring elite-level skill, discipline, and global experience to the Hokies’ track and field program.
Núñez has quickly become one of the most promising young sprinters in the Caribbean, with standout performances in the 100m and 200m events. He gained international recognition during the Pan American Games and further elevated his profile by qualifying for the Olympic Games, where he competed admirably against some of the world’s top sprinters. His decision to commit to Virginia Tech represents a bold move that reflects both his academic ambitions and desire to train at a top-tier NCAA program.
For Virginia Tech, Núñez’s commitment is a significant recruiting coup. Director of Track & Field and Cross Country Dave Cianelli praised the addition, calling Núñez “a dynamic talent who brings world-class experience to our locker room.” Cianelli, recently reappointed to lead the program after years of successful leadership, is assembling what looks like one of the most competitive rosters in recent school history.
“Javier is more than just a fast runner,” said Cianelli. “He’s mentally tough, internationally seasoned, and dedicated to excellence. We’re thrilled to welcome him to the Hokie family.”
Sources close to Núñez say that academics played a major role in his decision. Virginia Tech’s growing support for international students and its world-ranked engineering and sports science programs reportedly drew the attention of both the athlete and his advisers. Núñez will enroll as a student-athlete in the School of Human Performance, with aspirations of studying kinesiology and biomechanics—fields that will help him on and off the track.
Núñez’s commitment also signals a new chapter in how elite Olympic-caliber athletes from Latin America view NCAA opportunities. Traditionally, many Olympic hopefuls opt to train in their home countries or sign with professional clubs. But for Núñez, the balance between high-level collegiate competition and world-class training resources at Virginia Tech made Blacksburg the right fit.
On the international stage, Núñez has already inspired countless fans across the Dominican Republic, particularly young athletes who see him as a role model. His humility and work ethic have earned praise from both his coaches and teammates, and he’s expected to bring that same level of dedication to the collegiate ranks.
As Virginia Tech prepares for the 2025 season, the arrival of Javier Núñez will not only elevate the Hokies’ competitiveness in ACC and NCAA competition—it will also cement the school’s status as a hub for international talent. With Olympic dreams already fulfilled and more to come, Núñez’s journey in Blacksburg is just beginning.
