Tennessee’s beloved mascot Smokey XI has entered retirement, the university announced on Monday. He has been in training in hopes of adapting to the energetic nature of Neyland Stadium over the past two years, but his ‘reserved temperament continues to affect his comfort in public outings.’
Smokey XI will now enjoy a ‘quiet, peaceful retirement with his pack — his brother, his dad Smokey X and the Hudson family. Smokey X made his debut during the 2013 football season, Butch Jones’ first season. He provided glimpses of happiness for fans in those reeling years before Josh Heupel got the program back on track at the end of Smokey X’s tenure.
Smokey XI was born on August 8, 2021. He is the son of Smokey X and Tennessee Sweet T. He has a knack for chewing on his right ear and was born at Davis Branch Blueticks in Shelbyville, Tennessee.
Now, the search for Smokey XII begins. This will take place in coordination with the university and the Hudson family.
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In 1953, the UT Pep Club looked to name a school mascot to go alongside the nickname of Volunteers. There were a number of animals considered, but it came down to a Tennessee Walking Horse and a dog. While a horse was nearly chosen, the obstacle of maintaining and caring for one proved to be the deciding factor.
At halftime of the football game vs. Mississippi State, a contest among hound dogs was held to see who would be the winner. The story goes as such, according to UT:
“Rev. William C. Brooks’s prizewinning bluetick hound, “Blue Smokey,” was the last contestant, and when his name was called, he barked. The students cheered, Smokey threw his head back and howled, and UT had its new mascot, although the selection was not made official until the next (Duke) game. UT lost its first opening game since 1948 but gained a mascot.”
