"It's been a good transition. It has been a little different calling the plays and learning where to throw all the passes. It helps that I have played wide receiver for several seasons." - Gary Gaut Blacksburg quarterback O pportunities often come when

players least expect it.

This was the case for Blacksburg High senior Gary Gaut in spring practice.

A starting wide receiver since the ninth grade, he has been a consistent possession receiver who caught 40 passes for 554 yards and six touchdowns last season. He has seen playing time at running back and defensive back as the Wildcats coaching staff have looked for ways to use his ability to play many positions.

Gaut will be the one throwing the passes instead of catching them this year.

Blacksburg High football coaches asked him to move to quarterback after entering spring practice with no returning experience at the offense's most critical skill position.

Dustin Byars and Cameron Byars shared time at quarterback last season but both decided not to return so they could focus on baseball scholarship opportunities.

Gaut is playing quarterback for the first time since little league.

"It's been a good transition. It has been a little different calling the plays and learning where to throw all the passes," Gaut said. "It helps that I have played wide receiver for several seasons."

Born in California, Gaut moved with his family to Blacksburg when he was 6 years old.

Sports have been his favorite hobby for as long as he can remember. In addition to playing football, Gaut plays shortstop for the Blacksburg High baseball team.

"I have been playing sports with my best friends in Blacksburg all my life," he said. "It feels real good to know I'm going to be out there on the football field with my friends again this year."

Gaut spent the summer lifting weights, running and participating in 7-on-7 passing games.

"I spent a lot of time working with the receivers and just getting as many repetitions as possible," he said. "I just want to continue getting better."

Gaut has been effective running the ball in the preseason, a skill which prompted the coaches to try the senior at running back last year.

Head coach Robbie Blanton said he has been pleased with Gaut's overall progress at quarterback and expects the senior will continue to improve throughout the season.

"Gary has worked out well. It has taken him some to adjust, but he gives a running threat at quarterback. He wants the ball in his hands. He is sometimes too aggressive, but we are working on that," Blanton said. "Gary knows our offense well and is an excellent athlete. He is a senior player and leader who will give you everything he's got on the field. I think we're going to be real pleased with the change."