Loyal, Courageous and Inspiring: Sam Tackett Sets New Record, Becomes 20th Recipient of Johnny Oates Memorial Award
In a moment that brought pride to teammates, coaches, and the broader baseball community, senior outfielder Sam Tackett etched his name into history by becoming the 20th distinct recipient of the prestigious Johnny Oates Memorial Award, one of the highest honors bestowed by the program.
More than just a celebration of his on-field accomplishments, the award recognizes the traits that defined Johnny Oates himself—loyalty, courage, leadership, and the ability to inspire others through action and integrity. Tackett, a native of Ashland, Virginia, has embodied those qualities at every stage of his career.
A Season to Remember
In his final season, Tackett not only posted career-best numbers at the plate, but also played with a heart that resonated far beyond the stat sheet. He led the team in both home runs and RBIs, anchored the lineup during key conference matchups, and was a vocal leader in the locker room. But those who know him best say it’s his consistency, humility, and grit that make him truly stand out.
“Sam is the kind of player who always puts the team first,” said Head Coach Ryan Jones. “He plays the game the right way, and he treats people the right way. He’s everything the Johnny Oates Award stands for.”
What the Award Represents
The Johnny Oates Memorial Award is named after the beloved former MLB manager and Virginia Tech alumnus, who passed away in 2004 after a courageous battle with brain cancer. Oates was known not just for his baseball acumen, but for his unwavering principles, quiet strength, and steadfast loyalty to his players and family.
Each year, the coaching staff and athletic department come together to select one player who embodies Oates’ values both on and off the field. That recipient joins an exclusive group of student-athletes whose character has left a lasting legacy on the program.
By receiving the honor, Tackett joins a lineage of athletes who have become ambassadors for the university, both in professional baseball and in their communities.
A Leader in Every Way
Off the diamond, Tackett has also made a difference. He’s been a regular visitor at local schools, talking with young fans about the importance of education, discipline, and perseverance. He’s served as a mentor to younger players, offering guidance and encouragement even in the midst of the team’s most competitive moments.
“When I think of what this award means,” Tackett said during a brief ceremony following the team’s season finale, “I think of people who gave everything they had—not just for the game, but for the people around them. To be included in that kind of group… it means everything to me.”
Looking Ahead
As he prepares for the next chapter—possibly in professional baseball, or perhaps in coaching or community leadership—there’s no doubt that Sam Tackett will carry the spirit of Johnny Oates with him. In the eyes of his teammates, coaches, and the Hokie faithful, Tackett’s name will forever stand for loyalty, courage, and inspiration.
