Over the weekend, I ventured from Knoxville, TN to Oxford, MS for the UT vs. Ole Miss game. I’d heard that Oxford was an amazing to tail gate, and don’t get me wrong, it was a really fun experience. However, nothing compares to Knoxville, or even the entire state of Tennessee to be honest. There is nothing in the world like being a Tennessee fan and tailgating at UT. Here are a few reasons why being a Vol is the best thing you can be.     

1. We are the nicest in the SEC.
Everyone from out of state who attends school here or comes here to tailgate agrees we are all the nicest and most welcoming people they have ever met. Southern hospitality was defined with Tennessee fans in mind.

2. We’re dedicated.
Have you ever noticed how “fans” will suddenly lose interest in their team once they see they’re not doing as well anymore? (I’m talking to you, Bama.) At the University of Tennessee, we will never leave our Vols no matter what. And aside from the whole “F--- Florida” chant, we’re generally good sports when we lose. 

3. We make things happen.
Remember that time we checkered Neyland Stadium? We can thank a graphic designing Vol fan with a vision for that one.

4. Vols help Vols.

It doesn’t matter if you’re involved in Greek life, the band, the Quidditch team, are against or for Sex Week: if you’re a Vol in need, we’re all here for you. 

5. Rocky Top!

There’s no “rammer jammer” or “flim flam” on Rocky Top. Our favorite song doesn’t need made up rhyming words. Everyone loves Rocky Top, and there’s nothing quite like hearing 102,000 of your closest pals yelling it at the top of their lungs.

6. Our mascot is alive and well.

Who doesn’t love the beautiful sound of a Bluetick coonhound’s howl? That’s way cooler than a bulldog, gator or gamecock. Smokey is always ready to cheer on the Vols in his checkered orange and white ensemble. Smokey even has a book about his history! 

7. The Pride of the Southland Band. 

Here’s a few words for you: Running through the T. Nothing gets Vols fans more hyped up than seeing their beloved team running through the T onto the field. 

8. Knoxville itself is reason enough to love the Volunteers.

Knoxville is a short distance from Atlanta, Nashville, and Asheville. We have a zoo, two local theatres, and a Nature Center all extremely close to campus. Market Square and the Sunsphere. Knoxville also has exclusive good eats like Tomato Head, Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop and Sunspot. So whether you want to enjoy campus, get an urban downtown vibe or go hiking and swimming in the quarry, it’s all at your fingertips in Knoxville, home of the Vols. 

9. Our colors run deep.

There’s something charming about that orange and white that everyone loves to hate. Personally, I think orange beats our competitors’ colors everyday of the week. It’s original, bright, and gives Vol women a reason to wear white out of season.

10. Once you’re a Vol, you’re a Vol for life.

Win or lose, we’re Vols for life. Being a Volunteer doesn’t end once you graduate. The difference between our fans and yours is that we love our team through the ups and downs. We never give up hope. We defend them until the end, and let it be known, if you are to ever insult the Vols in front of a fan, you will never live it down. Exhibit A: Lane Kiffin. 

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Vols give their all for Tennessee. Our campus may be covered in construction and people may love to hate us, but at the end of the day, our love for the Volunteers is unconditional and everlasting. And if you think you love your team more than we do, BUTch please.