By Missy Grimes
Norfolk State Administration introduces Michael Vick as Football Coach, Ross Gordon MC, Bishop Kim Brown of Board of Visitors, Javaune Adams-Gaston President and AD, Melody Webb.mp3
Norfolk State Director of Athletics Dr. Melody Webb formally introduced NSU head football coach Michael Vick at a press conference on Monday morning in front of a room filled with media, friends, and partners.
“BEHOLD!” Vick said to greet the audience. “I’m getting used to saying that with authority.”
The festivities began with remarks from Bishop Kim W. Brown, speaking for the Norfolk State Board of Visitors. NSU President Dr. Javaune Adams-Gaston stepped up to the microphone next, highlighting the significance of Vick’s arrival to the prestigious university.
“From my conversations with Michael, I knew he was a transformational human,” Adams-Gaston said. “I knew that he understood what it takes to change young men’s lives and make them leaders of our institution. In transforming their lives, he will transform our football team and our football success at Norfolk State.”
Webb took the stage next, welcoming Vick back to the Hampton Roads area and emphasizing the characteristics that made the Newport News native such a strong selection.
“A leader with unparallelled experience on the field, a deep understanding of the game, and a passion for mentoring the next generation of athletes, Michael Vick is a name that resonates with football fans around the world.” Webb said. “A dynamic player who redefined what it means to be a quarterback, Michael’s legacy includes not only his athletic achievements, but his ability to inspire and overcome challenges.”
Announcing Vick as the 19th head coach of Norfolk State’s football program, Dr Webb and Adams-Gaston presented the man of the hour with a custom No. 7 Norfolk State jersey.
Welcome to the Spartan family! 👏#GoldStandard🔰 pic.twitter.com/xhPSzOFXpP
— Norfolk State Football 🔰 (@NorfolkStateFB) December 23, 2024
Vick shared some of the sentiments of his first conversation with the Spartan football team, referencing the coaches throughout his playing career that left a lasting impact on his life.
“I had a chance to talk to them on Saturday as a team and it was more so about creating a winning culture,” Vick said. “Anywhere I’ve played or been around a team of people who found success, they always had a good culture. Andy Reid created a great culture. Mike Tomlin had a great culture.”
It’s about a winning culture 🥇🏆#GoldStandard🔰 pic.twitter.com/Id1kLoanHa
— Norfolk State Football 🔰 (@NorfolkStateFB) December 23, 2024
Vick thanked the Spartan fanbase, administration, and leadership for trusting him with this opportunity, vowing to make the most of it.
“You see the future in me, I see the future in myself, and I hope that the young men that we serve see the future in themselves.” Vick said. “That is the most important part of all of this. So we are going to make the most out of this. We’re going to win, we’re going to have fun and give this 110 percent.”
Amongst several famous figures in attendance, NBA and Hampton Roads legend Allen Iverson expressed to reporters afterwards the joy he felt seeing his longtime friend on stage.
“I’m just happy,” Iverson said. “I’m proud of him. We deserve this. It’s a beautiful day and I’m just happy to be a part of it.”
For complete coverage of Norfolk State Athletics, please follow the Spartans on social media at @nsuspartans (X), /NorfolkStateAthletics (Facebook), @NSUAthletics (Instagram), @nsuathletics (YouTube) or visit the official home of Norfolk State Athletics at nsuspartans.com.
COURTESY NORFOLK STATE ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS
