LAVA - Life After Virginia Foundation

05/14/2026

May is Mental Health Awareness Month.

Behind every jersey, every accomplishment, and every success story is a real person navigating life, pressure, expectations, and transition.

For athletes especially, life after sports can bring challenges that many people never see.

At LAVA , we believe in new beginnings and the power of community. We are committed to creating conversations, connections, and support systems that remind current and former student-athletes that they never have to go through life alone.
At LAVA, we believe in new beginnings and the power of community. We are committed to creating conversations, connections, and support systems that remind current and former student-athletes that they never have to go through life alone.
This month, we encourage everyone to:
✔ Check in on a friend
✔ Have honest conversations
✔ Ask for help when needed
✔ Support one another without judgment

A simple message, phone call, or conversation could change someone’s life.

You matter. Your mental health matters.

01/20/2026

A testimonial from a former player, current graduate assistant coach, and lifetime HOO!

01/16/2026

#1 in the country overall alumni engagement among athlete network partner schools!

12/23/2025

With Gratitude This Holiday Season
As the year comes to a close and the holidays invite us to slow down and reflect, one word keeps rising to the top for me: gratitude.

Gratitude for this community.
Gratitude for relationships that endure long after the final whistle.
Gratitude for the shared belief that life after Virginia matters—and that no one should have to navigate it alone.

LAVA: Life After Virginia was created from a simple truth many of us know firsthand: the transition away from sport can be one of the most challenging chapters in an athlete’s life. Identity shifts. Purpose evolves. And the support systems that once felt automatic can suddenly feel distant.

Because of our alumni, supporters, mentors, and friends, those transitions are no longer faced in isolation. Together, you’ve helped build something powerful—a place where former players are seen, supported, and reminded that the brotherhood and community we experienced at Virginia doesn’t end when our playing days do.

This year, I’ve witnessed countless quiet moments that will never make a headline:
• A former player reaching out for guidance at the right time
• A mentor offering perspective born from experience
• A supporter choosing to invest in people, not just programs

These moments are the heart of LAVA—and they’re happening because of you.

During the holidays, we’re reminded that the most meaningful gifts aren’t wrapped—they’re felt. They show up as presence, generosity, and a willingness to stand beside someone when it matters most.

Thank you for standing with LAVA.
Thank you for believing in the long game.
And thank you for helping us build something that will last.

Wishing you and your families peace, health, and joy this holiday season—and continued purpose and connection in the year ahead.

With gratitude,
Brian

12/20/2025

Reflecting on what has been a whirlwind of a year. So proud of what LAVA: Life After Virginia has accomplished in just a few short months in 2025. Look out 2026! We have momentum, and WE are just getting started.

12/12/2025

12/12/2025

12/11/2025

Yesterday more than 300 people comprised of over 35 companies across all industries, 50+ Virginia Football Alums, and Administrators for the Athletics Department joined the 125 players on the 2025 Virginia Football team for LAVA: Life After Virginia Career Kickoff event.

Players had the chance to hear panels on the transition from College to the NFL, Financial Literacy, Marketing and Brand Awareness, and interview for mirco internships and full time jobs with companies present.

A special thanks to our Corporate Sponsors, Dr. Carla Williams, Coach Tony Elliott, Noel LaMontagne, Ryan Khuel, Wali Rainer, Angelo and Kim Crowell, Scott Pioli, Chris Long, and all our alums, companies, and panelists for making yesterday a visible example of what makes Virginia Football and our Brotherhood unlike anywhere else in the Country!!

12/08/2025

Not the outcome that we had hoped for, but glad we were able to support our Wahoos in Charlotte. An amazing turn out from our football alumni.

12/02/2025

So much love and admiration for our brother, Zac. Inspirational is an understatement? 🧡💙

Zac Yarbrough is fighting for his life with an infectious energy that's giving his old Wahoo teammates “a reason to have faith.”

11/25/2025

📣 EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENT: We’re officially a 501(c)(3)!

This designation marks a major step forward in our mission to support UVA football players, past, present, and future through mental wellness, mentorship, and career development. This milestone empowers us to expand our programs and build a stronger, lifelong community of Wahoos.