For The Brooks Family, Hokies’ Final Four Trip Is Extra Special

It’s been a special season for Virginia Tech, but it’s been extra sweet for Kenny Brooks and his family. (Michael Shroyer)

DALLAS — When the opportunity arose for Kenny Brooks to leave James Madison for Virginia Tech seven years ago, his family was on board from the get-go — almost. 

His wife, Chrissy, didn’t hesitate, thinking he’d done all he could do with the Dukes, taking them to five NCAA tournaments. For his oldest daughter, Kendyl, it was a bit more complicated as a JMU commit, but she quickly came around and followed him to Blacksburg. His youngest daughter, Gabby, was too little to have an opinion one way or another. 

Then there was his middle daughter, Chloe. A sophomore in high school and the self-described stubborn one of the family, she didn’t want to go. Their entire family lived in Harrisonburg, the only city she’d ever known. Her friends were there. Her life was there. 

Reluctantly, she came around, however, with the two having a tearful tête-à-tête.

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