How Did Tennessee Volunteers Get Their Name?
The Tennessee Volunteers, representing the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Tennessee, have a name that's deeply rooted in the state's history. But what's the story behind this patriotic name? Let's march into it.
The Volunteer Connection
The name "Volunteers" comes from the state's nickname, "The Volunteer State," which dates back to the War of 1812. Tennesseans have a long history of volunteering for military service, and the name was adopted to honor this tradition.
The Mascot: Smokey
The team's mascot, Smokey, is a Bluetick Coonhound that has been a part of the Volunteers' tradition since 1953. Smokey serves as a symbol of the university's rugged and spirited nature.
