BLACKSBURG, Va. (WDBJ) - Virginia Tech Head Coach Brent Pry announced Sam Siefkes as the Hokies' new defensive coordinator.

Siefkes has experience in the NFL as well as the three divisions in college football, including FBS, FCS, and Division III.

“It’s an honor to join the Virginia Tech family,” said Siefkes. “This program has a storied defensive tradition, and I’m excited to work with Coach Pry and our talented student-athletes to build on this legacy. I look forward to building a defense embodying the lunch pail mentality of the past. The energy, passion, and commitment here are unmatched, and I’m ready to get to work.”

“Virginia Tech and Coach Pry are getting a remarkable leader in the coaching world,” said Arizona Cardinals’ head coach Jonathan Gannon. “Sam is a fantastic communicator, teacher and has unbelievable knowledge on how to stop offenses,” Gannon continued. “He is a great coach and even better person. He will bring competitive stamina and a ton of juice to Blacksburg. Hokie Nation be ready to see an aggressive, smart, tough unit that will dominate games.”

“After a lengthy and thorough search, one name kept emerging - Sam Siefkes. People across the country couldn’t stop praising Sam’s knowledge of the game and his abilities as a coach. As I got to know him, I couldn’t agree more. I am thrilled to have Sam join our program,” said Coach Pry. “He’s worked under some of the best minds in the game, including Mike Zimmer, Kevin O’Connell, Ed Donatell, Jonathan Gannon, Nick Rallis, and Dave Aranda. His ability to design innovative defensive schemes will energize both our players and fans.”

“What stands out about Sam is his proven ability to adapt and excel at every level,” Pry added. “From building top-ranked defenses in college football to working with elite athletes in the NFL, he knows how to get the most out of his players. He’s a teacher at heart, and I’m confident his leadership will resonate with our student-athletes.”

The hiring will be effective at the conclusion of the university’s standard employment process.

Click here to learn more about Siefkes' career.