Virginia Tech’s ‘Enter Sandman’ entrance was voted the No. 7 Best College Sports Tradition in the 2025 USA Today Readers’ Choice Awards.
The ‘Enter Sandman’ entrance, featuring Metallica’s anthem, has been a tradition at Virginia Tech since 2000 and has become synonymous with the university’s athletics.
The entrance, which started with a few members of the Marching Virginians jumping in unison, has grown to involve 66,000 fans bouncing in unison, with the impact registering on seismographs.
Metallica performed at Lane Stadium on May 7, 2025, during the ‘Enter Sandman’ entrance, causing seismic readings due to the crowd’s energy.
The tradition of ‘Enter Sandman’ has energized players, ignited fans, and intimidated opponents, creating a gameday atmosphere that is unmatched.



