THE BLADE
SPRING 2026 SPRING 2026
From Roanoke to the Rink: Celebrating Championship Hockey and Community Pride
If it felt like everyone was talking hockey lately, you weren’t alone. The excitement surrounding the Winter Olympics—especially Team USA’s thrilling overtime win over Canada to capture gold —has put the sport front and center once again. That momentum is something we’re proud to see close to home. Right here in our own W.S. Connelly family, we have a direct connection to that same passion and growth in the game. Joey Mullen , based out of our Roanoke Landscape Supply location, serves as Head Coach of the Virginia Tech Ice Hockey team—and recently helped lead the Hokies to the 2026 ACC Hockey Premier Division Admiral’s Cup Championship. While not an NCAA Division I program, Virginia Tech club hockey represents the university in the Atlantic Coast Collegiate Hockey League, competing within Division II of the American Collegiate Hockey Association. What started in 1984 as a small club has grown into a competitive, respected program, highlighted by a 24-4-1 season last year and now a 2026 championship. Joey brings deep roots in the game. A Roanoke native, he has been part of the Southwest Virginia hockey community since he was just two years old. After playing junior hockey in the Northeast and at Radford, he transitioned into coaching, where he has now spent more than 15 years helping lead and grow the Hokies program. His leadership on and off the ice reflects the same values we see every day—commitment, teamwork, and the drive to build something meaningful. Under his guidance, Virginia Tech hockey has continued to elevate its level of play while expanding the reach of the sport in a nontraditional market.
As hockey continues to grow across the country, programs like Virginia Tech are helping lead the way—and we’re proud to have that kind of championship leadership within our own team.
Congratulations to Coach Mullen and the Hokies on an outstanding season and the 2026 Admiral’s Cup title.
Spring Safety: Pollen & Rising Temps
As we move into the spring season, longer days and warmer weather mean more time outdoors —but they also bring a few seasonal challenges to keep in mind. Pollen Awareness Spring pollen levels can be high, especially on dry, windy days. For those working
outside, this can lead to irritation, allergies, and fatigue. Consider wearing sunglasses or protective eyewear Wash hands and face throughout the day Stay mindful of symptoms and take breaks when needed
Hydration & Heat Temperatures can rise quickly this time of year, especially as we transition from cooler mornings to warmer afternoons. Staying ahead of hydration is key. Drink water consistently throughout the day—not just when you feel thirsty Take breaks in shaded or cool areas when possible Wear appropriate clothing for changing conditions Spring is a busy time for all of us, but taking a few extra steps to stay safe and comfortable helps ensure we can keep doing our best work every day.
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