University of Tennessee Athletics
One Tennessee BBQ Welcomes Athletes
August 20, 2015 | General
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- Student-athletes at the University of Tennessee capped the first day of classes on Wednesday by coming together for the annual One Tennessee barbeque at the Anderson Training Center.
The event, organized by the NCAA CHAMPS Life Skills office at UT, led by Director of Student-Athlete Development Kayla Smith brought athletes and coaches from every sport together for a night of food and fellowship as the new academic year got underway.
“It’s always exciting to have your new freshmen in and to see your returners and to get everything going,” said Karen Weekly, co-head softball coach. “It’s really neat that all the athletes can come together tonight under one roof.”
VFL Sterling “Sterl the Pearl” Hinton, set the tone by spinning the tunes from his DJ booth that has become a staple at Tennessee events. Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Dave Hart welcomed the student-athletes back individually and addressed the group as they ate.
Student-athletes received t-shirts featuring the “All In” slogan that is the theme for CHAMPS Life Skills this year. They are encouraged to wear the shirts when attending supporting their fellow athletes throughout the year.
Most of all, Wednesday night was about reconnecting with friends that had been away for the summer and fostering the family environment that has come to define student-athletes at Tennessee.
“It’s good to have everyone back and get to be with all of your friends,” football’s Brian Randolph said.
