Student Joined Virginia Football, Scored Extra Point

Chris Messmore secured a spot as a walk-on kicker and contributed to a 59-3 victory over Norfolk State.

Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Football

Student Joined Virginia Football, Scored Extra Point

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Should college sports teams provide more walk-on opportunities to students who work in their athletic departments?

Fourth-year student Chris Messmore joined the University of Virginia football team as a walk-on kicker after being officially notified of his spot on July 23, 2026. He subsequently recorded an extra point during the team's 59-3 win over Norfolk State.

Why it matters

The walk-on opportunity allowed Messmore to fulfill his goal of collegiate kicking after previously serving as an athletic communications intern. His path to the roster followed consistent independent practice and a specific invitation from the team's general manager.

Messmore contributed to a dominant 59-3 final score against Norfolk State at Scott Stadium. His previous recognition includes being named Bishop Brady High School's Special Teams Player of the Year in both 2022 and 2023.

The players

Chris Messmore

He is a fourth-year student at the University of Virginia who successfully walked onto the football team.

Justin Speros

He serves as the General Manager for the Virginia football team and invited Messmore to try out.

The details

After being cut as an incoming second-year student, Messmore maintained his skills by practicing at Mad Bowl monthly. Following an invitation from General Manager Justin Speros in July 2026, he secured his place on the squad and transitioned from his role in the athletic communications office to the field.

Messmore earned high school honors in 2022 and 2023.
He received an invitation to try out in July 2026.
The team officially added him to the roster on July 23, 2026.
He scored his first extra point during the fall 2026 season.
Messmore plans to return to his internship in spring 2027.

Season Trajectory

Messmore's addition to the roster highlights the ongoing reliance of college football programs on dedicated walk-on players to bolster depth. His success impacts the internal competition for special teams roles throughout the remainder of the season.

Messmore's conversion of an extra point directly contributed to the team's final scoring margin against Norfolk State. His integration into the special teams unit provides depth for the remainder of the 2026 season schedule.

The takeaway

Persistence can lead to achieving collegiate athletic goals even after initial setbacks or being cut from a team. Students interested in collegiate sports should maintain consistent independent training to stay ready for potential walk-on opportunities.