Virginia Tech Hokies Football Helmets:Next Level

The love of Virginia Tech helmets runs strong and deep. I got an email this afternoon from a former Hokie athlete. Former Hokie swimmer, Lane Hinkle, read our piece on Shayne Graham and wanted to put his helmet in the mix. Hinkle was in the right place at the right time. Hinkle knew the mayor of Jacksonville, John Peyton, and took possession when the mayor left office. Hinkle recalls, “Actually the mayor’s Dad (who owns Gate Petroleum and the Ponte Vedra Inn and Country Club) is a client of mine … I got the helmet after he was out of office and clearing out … it was a few lucky strokes of being in the right place at the right time.”

Photo Courtesy of Lane Hinkle

Indeed. This particular example of Hokie memorabilia hits on all the key factors. There is provenance. There is a story. There is a unique item. I love this “mirror image”.

Photo Courtesy of Lane Hinkle

It has proper respect because it was signed by both coaches. Beamer’s is a little hard to see due to Sharpie on Chicago Maroon, but they are there. Hats off to Lane (love the name) for sharing a personal piece of his collection.

Photo Courtesy of Lane Hinkle