The Tennessee Volunteers represent one of the most iconic programs in NCAA history. Competing in the SEC, both Tennessee Volunteers football and Tennessee Volunteers basketball have built legacies defined by passion, championships, and unforgettable rivalries. Over the decades, the Volunteers have become a symbol of pride for the University of Tennessee and its loyal fan base.
College Sports Established
1896
Location
Knoxville, Tennessee
College Name
University of Tennessee
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division 1
1921 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
1907 - 1921 / Athletic Association of the United States
Conference History
1932 – Present / SEC Conference
1921 - 1932 / Southern Conference
1896 - 1916, 1919 - 1921 / Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association
Nickname
Volunteers - The Tennessee Volunteers have been a staple of the NCAA for many years, and their nickname has endured throughout time. But where did it come from? Let’s take a look at the origins of this beloved moniker.
Tennessee Volunteers Origin
The name “Volunteers” was first used by William Blount in 1796 when he proposed to Congress that they create an army unit entirely of Tennessee volunteers. This idea was accepted, and thus began the legacy of “Tennessee Volunteers” as we know them today.
Fast forward to 1891 when Charles Moore, then president of what is now known as The University Of Tennessee (UT), suggested using "Volunteers" as UT's athletic team name due to its close ties with military service in World Wars I & II. It wasn't until 1926. However, Athletics Director M D Traughber officially adopted "Volunteers" for all UT teams – making it official!
As part of their tradition, each year before every football game, there is a march-in ceremony featuring members dressed in full Civil War uniforms carrying flags representing each branch or division within the U S Military – further honoring those who served our country so bravely over two centuries ago and still serve today! With such deep roots tied into American history, it's no wonder why fans are so proud to call themselves “Tennessee Volunteers."
NCAA Championships
Baseball 1
2024
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 8
2008, 2007, 1998, 1997, 1996, 1991, 1989, 1987
Football 6
1998, 1967, 1951, 1950, 1940, 1938
Soccer 0
- 1908
- 1938
- 1998
- 2008
- 2019
- 2022
- 2024
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first basketball team at the University of Tennessee is formed
In 1908: The first basketball team at the University of Tennessee is formed by Zora G. Clevenger, who also coached the football and baseball teams -
Tennessee Football team wins its first national championship
In 1938: The team wins its first national championship, as recognized by Dunkel System, and goes 11-0 with no points allowed in the regular season -
NCAA Football Champs 1998
The 1998 Tennessee Volunteers football team represented the University of Tennessee in the 1998 NCAA Division I-A football season. Tennessee entered the 1998 season coming off an 11–2 record (7–1 SEC) in 1997. The Volunteers were given a preseason ranking of No. 10 in the AP Poll. The Vols won their second undisputed national title, and sixth overall, after defeating ... -
Lady Vols NCAA Basketball Champions in 2008
The 2008 NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Tournament involved 64 teams playing in a single-elimination tournament to determine the 2007–08 national champion of women’s NCAA Division I college basketball. It commenced on March 22, 2008, and concluded when the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers defeated the Stanford University Cardinal 64–48 on April 8, 2008, at the St. Pete Times Forum ... -
Basketball team reach the Sweet Sixteen for the fifth time
In 2019: The team repeats its conference championship and makes its 22nd NCAA Tournament appearance. They also achieve their highest ranking in any poll (#1) since 2008 and reach the Sweet Sixteen for the fifth time, losing to Purdue in overtime -
Team Wins 8th SEC Title, Earns NCAA Tournament Spot
In 2022: The team wins its eighth SEC championship and makes its eighth NCAA Tournament appearance. They also make their fifth College World Series appearance, finishing second after losing to Texas 2-1 in the best-of-three final series. They also set a program record with 57 wins and achieve their first No. 1 national ranking in any poll -
Showdown in Omaha: Tennessee vs. Texas A&M Clash for the 2024 NCAA Baseball World Series Crown
The 2024 NCAA Baseball World Series saw a thrilling showdown between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Texas A&M Aggies. The series culminated in a nail-biting Game 3, in which Tennessee emerged victorious with a 6-5 win, marking its first national title in program history. The Volunteers’ victory was a team effort, with standout performances from several players. Zander Sechrist pitched 5.1 ...
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* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Tennessee Volunteers History
The Tennessee Volunteers have one of the richest traditions in college athletics, proudly representing the University of Tennessee since the late 19th century. Known for their fierce rivalry with the Vanderbilt Commodores, the Tennessee Volunteers football program began in 1891 and has since grown into one of the most respected teams in NCAA Division I history. Over the years, both Tennessee Volunteers football and Tennessee Volunteers basketball have built legacies that inspire generations of fans.
The university’s athletic journey began when students from what was then East Tennessee University created a football team that would later adopt the “Volunteers” nickname, symbolizing the state’s spirit of service and courage. As the team developed, it joined the Southeastern Conference (SEC), becoming one of the founding members. In its early years, the program found remarkable success, including undefeated seasons and multiple SEC titles that cemented its reputation in southern football.
The Tennessee Volunteers football program became a powerhouse under legendary coach Robert Neyland, who guided the team to six national championships (1938, 1940, 1950, 1951, 1967, and 1998). Neyland’s influence went beyond wins — he established a disciplined, defense-first culture that still defines Tennessee football today. His legacy lives on at Neyland Stadium, one of the largest and most iconic stadiums in college football.
Beyond football, the Tennessee Volunteers basketball programs have also made a lasting impact. The men’s basketball team has won several SEC titles and produced standout players who went on to the NBA. Meanwhile, the women’s program, led by the legendary Pat Summitt, became one of the most dominant in NCAA history. Under Summitt’s leadership, the Lady Vols captured eight national championships and produced countless All-Americans, setting the gold standard for women’s basketball nationwide.
Volunteers Achievements
The Tennessee Volunteers have also excelled in other sports, including baseball, track and field, and softball. The baseball team has appeared in the College World Series multiple times and captured the SEC Championship, showcasing the program’s growing prominence. Track and field athletes have earned Olympic medals and world titles, continuing Tennessee’s tradition of athletic excellence across all sports.
Today, the Tennessee Volunteers continue to be a symbol of determination and pride in collegiate athletics. Whether it’s the roar at Neyland Stadium during football season or the energy inside Thompson-Boling Arena during basketball games, the spirit of the Tennessee Volunteers football and Tennessee Volunteers basketball programs remains unmatched. With championship heritage, passionate fans, and elite athletes, the Volunteers stand tall as one of the most respected programs in the SEC and the nation.
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