John Chen has quickly become a celebrated figure in Virginia Tech Hokies football. His journey, marked by consistent performance and remarkable achievements, showcases not just talent but also a deep passion for the game. This dedication has resonated with fans and teammates alike, solidifying his place as a key player and a fan favorite. From All-ACC honors to setting school records, Chen’s career trajectory is a testament to his hard work and commitment to excellence on the field.
Early Career Highlights and Accolades
Chen’s collegiate career boasts impressive recognition right from the start. He earned All-ACC Honorable Mention honors in both 2023 and 2024, underscoring his consistent contribution to the Hokies. These accolades are not just acknowledgements of his skill but also reflect the high regard coaches and analysts have for his performance under pressure.
The 2024 Season: A Year of Milestones
The 2024 season was particularly noteworthy for Chen. Playing in all 13 games, he demonstrated exceptional accuracy, converting 16 of his 18 field goal attempts, achieving an impressive 88.8% success rate. His proficiency from various distances, including a perfect 5-for-5 from 40-49 yards and 3-for-4 from beyond 50 yards, highlights his range and reliability.
One of the standout moments of the season was against Miami (Sept. 27), where Chen nailed a then career-long 57-yard field goal. This not only earned him the ACC Specialist of the Week award but also showcased his ability to perform under high stakes. He received the same honor again after a strong performance against Virginia (Nov. 30), where he successfully kicked field goals from 44, 31, and 28 yards, proving his consistency and mental fortitude.
Chen further etched his name in Virginia Tech’s record books by setting a new career-long with a spectacular 60-yard field goal against Minnesota in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl. This kick not only extended his personal best but also underscored his development and confidence as a kicker. Adding to his flawless record, he was perfect on all 42 PAT attempts throughout the 2024 season. His consistent excellence culminated in his second consecutive All-ACC Honorable Mention.
The 2023 Season: Setting the Stage for Stardom
Chen’s 2023 season was equally remarkable, setting the foundation for his growing reputation. Participating in all 13 games, he successfully converted 22 of 24 field goal attempts, boasting a 91.7% accuracy rate, which ranked him sixth nationally. His perfection on extra points continued, going 47-for-47 on PATs.
Key performances from the 2023 season include the Military Bowl against Tulane (Dec. 27), where he was flawless on both field goal and PAT attempts. Against Virginia (Nov. 25), he contributed significantly to a decisive win with two field goals and seven extra points. A game against Boston College (Nov. 11) saw him hit two field goals, including a then career-high of 46 yards. Notably, against Syracuse (Oct. 26), Chen set a career-high with five made field goals in a single game, scoring a personal best of 18 points, highlighting his capacity to dominate games.
Earlier Years: Building the Foundation
In 2022, Chen began his collegiate journey, making his debut against Duke (Nov. 12). He successfully kicked his first career PAT and later connected on a 23-yard field goal against Liberty (Nov. 19). These early experiences were crucial in his development and adaptation to the pressures of college football.
Before Virginia Tech, Chen honed his skills at Spartanburg High School in South Carolina. Rated as a five-star kicking prospect and ranked among the top high school kickers nationally, his high school career under head coach Mark Hodge laid a strong foundation for his college success. He also participated in soccer, showcasing his diverse athletic abilities.
Personal Insights
Currently majoring in biological sciences, John Chen exemplifies the student-athlete ideal. His dedication to both academics and athletics underscores his disciplined approach to life. His on-field achievements are matched by his commitment to his studies, making him a well-rounded and inspiring figure within the Virginia Tech community.
John Chen’s journey is more than just a collection of stats and awards; it’s a story of dedication, passion, and a growing legacy at Virginia Tech. His consistent performance and record-breaking kicks have not only earned him accolades but also the admiration and “love” of Hokies fans, who eagerly anticipate his continued success.
