"Hokies" is the nickname for the athletic teams and students of Virginia Tech, a public research university located in Blacksburg, Virginia. The term originated from a 1896 contest to name the school's football team and has since become a symbol of school spirit and pride. The university's mascot is a turkey named HokieBird, which reflects the nickname's origins. The Hokies compete in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and are known for their strong programs in various sports, particularly football and basketball. The school's colors are Chicago maroon and burnt orange, which are prominently displayed at athletic events and on merchandise.