For 4-star recruit Leon Mackey , all four of the official visits he made were terrific. When it came down to making a college choice, Virginia Tech was the pick, receiving the 6-5, 275-pound defensive end’s letter of intent last Wednesday over Florida State, North Carolina and N.C. State.

“I prayed about it and I believe I made a good decision,” said Mackey, who informed the Tech coaches about his decision the night before Signing Day. “I chose Virginia Tech for the environment, the football atmosphere and the coaches.”

Virginia Tech’s coaches were led by primary recruiter Bryan Stinespring and defensive line coach Charley Wiles. Mackey felt comfortable with both of those coaches, who helped turn the tide in Tech’s favor.

“First of all, Coach Stinespring and I had a real good relationship,” Mackey said. “I call him Coach Stiney (laughs). I also like Coach Wiles. Under Coach Wiles, I think I will get better as a football player and as a person. I also like Bud Foster as the defensive coordinator. I’ve met him and talked to him. He didn’t promise me anything, but he said they would give me an opportunity to play my first year and that is all I ask for.”

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