Virginia Tech’s spring game drew attention this week for an unusual incident when a skydiver collided with the Lane Stadium scoreboard ahead of Saturday’s Hokies game. The person was safely recovered and is reported to be stable following rescue efforts.
Skydiver Opens Up About Near-Tragedy at Virginia Tech Spring Game
The viral skydiver incident during the Virginia Tech game was later identified as retired U.S. Army Special Operations Master Sergeant Pasha Palanker. He later appeared on the “See Ball Get Ball” podcast, where he recounted his experience during the parachute mishap at the stadium.
“Well, the first thing that happened is I had the wind knocked out of me and it took me I don’t know how long,” Palanker said (10:32). “I couldn’t catch my breath and then I’m also kind of wrapped up in everything that’s going on in me. (I) got myself together. Fortunately, I’ve been in situations like this before in combat. And when you’re in a moment like that, the most important thing is not to panic.
“So, I assessed the situation. I looked and saw that I was being held by this by the jumbotron. I released the flag so it doesn’t catch the air cuz those wind gusts kept coming. And I did what I could to make sure the canopy didn’t get inflated and I didn’t get taken off, cuz it was a long way down but not enough time for the canopy to reinflate. I hung there for I think 15-20 minutes but to me that time stood still. I just tried to stay present, not panic.”
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The incident occurred shortly before kickoff at 3 p.m. when three skydivers were scheduled to land at the stadium. One landed safely on the field, while another was blown off course onto a nearby practice field due to strong winds. However, Palanker became stuck on the stadium scoreboard, with his parachute caught between the “C” and “H” of the Virginia Tech lettering.
Palanker, a veteran of over 1,100 jumps since beginning in 2011 during his military service, said he had never experienced anything like it before. He also said that the jump likely would have been canceled had the windy conditions been properly forecast.
Virginia Tech officials addressed the incident in a statement, which read:
“Our primary focus remains on their well-being. We extend our sincere appreciation to the first responders, event staff, and medical personnel for their swift, coordinated and professional response.”
Palanker sustained a shoulder injury that required him to wear a sling, but he said he fully intends to skydive again once recovered. He also expressed deep appreciation for the support he has received from Virginia Tech fans, saying the messages and invitations back to campus have meant a great deal to him.
