Devin Butler ’24 doesn’t remember a time when there wasn’t a basketball in his hands. He may not have been able to dribble it as a baby, but it was there.

Courtney Novotny ’25 starts out each week with a plan. Every Sunday she goes over what needs to be done for the coming week. It’s the only way she can stay organized and on target for all her goals, especially since she’s one of the co-captains of the water polo team, handling her classes and more.

The cadet regimen has worked out for Tyler Mousaw '24. Plus, being a D1 athlete on VMI’s wrestling team has enabled him to find ways to balance everything.

Katie Grochalski ’24 found that rifle served as her own personal time, something that she could devote only to herself. The solid black powder, the popping of rifles, it had a calming effect on her, so much so that she could even fall asleep at the range.  

If anyone knows balance, it’s Andrew Granger ’24. Not just with academics and cadet life, but within his event for track and field.  

Christopher Hicks ’24 takes a deep breath, sets up his sight, braces his weapon, and fires. For Hicks, the sport of rifle is 90% mental. It’s also long and arduous.

When Drew Menges '25 found Virginia Military Institute, it was nearly kismet. By attending VMI, he’d also be able to play soccer for the school while still having the opportunity to pursue serving his country.

Grant Swinehart knows a lot about dedication and it’s something that VMI head football coach Danny Rocco recognized. Prior to the season, Swinehart was awarded the number 0 which is a new tradition started by Rocco. Each year, number zero will be given to the captain of the special teams.

When the days are long and tiring — both exhausting mentally and physically — Audrey Davis '25 said she can’t give up. Cadet-athletes at VMI not only have their responsibilities with their selected sport but cadet duties on top of that.