The Final Lap: Big Orange Caravan’s Tri-Cities Farewell on May 1, 2025

On May 1, 2025, the University of Tennessee’s annual fan appreciation tour, the Big Orange Caravan, made its final stop in the Tri-Cities, marking the end of a cherished tradition that has connected the Volunteers with their passionate supporters across the state. Hosted at the Meadowview Convention Center in Kingsport, Tennessee, this event was more than just a gathering; it was a celebration of community, pride, and the enduring spirit of Volunteer Nation.

A Tradition of Connection

The Big Orange Caravan has long been a cornerstone of Tennessee Athletics’ outreach efforts, bringing together fans from all corners of the state to engage with their favorite teams and coaches. This year’s caravan, presented by Pilot, spanned several days, with stops in Memphis, Nashville, and the Tri-Cities, culminating in the Kingsport event. Each stop featured a meet-and-greet session, a Q&A with coaches and athletic staff, and appearances by the UT Spirit Squads, creating an immersive experience for attendees.

A Star-Studded Lineup

The Kingsport event featured a distinguished lineup of Tennessee Athletics’ leadership and coaching staff. Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Danny White, head football coach Josh Heupel, men’s basketball coach Rick Barnes, women’s basketball coach Kim Caldwell, and the newly appointed “Voice of the Vols,” Mike Keith, were all in attendance. This ensemble of leaders shared insights into their respective programs, discussed the future of Tennessee Athletics, and expressed their gratitude for the unwavering support of the Tri-Cities fanbase.

Mike Keith, in particular, brought a unique energy to the event. Having spent 27 seasons with the Tennessee Titans, Keith’s return to Rocky Top as the lead play-by-play announcer for Tennessee football and men’s basketball games added a layer of excitement to the proceedings. His presence underscored the deep ties between Tennessee Athletics and the broader sports community in the state.

The Heart of Volunteer Nation

The Tri-Cities region—comprising Kingsport, Johnson City, and Bristol—is known for its rich history and strong sense of community. For decades, fans in this area have demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the Volunteers, often traveling great distances to attend games and support their teams. The May 1 event was a testament to this enduring loyalty.

Coaches Heupel and Caldwell took a moment to acknowledge the passionate fanbase in Northeast Tennessee. Reflecting on previous visits, Heupel remarked, “The passion of this fanbase up here is really strong – last year it was the biggest and best stop that we had on our tour.” Caldwell echoed these sentiments, noting, “You can just feel that energy from this group,” highlighting the palpable enthusiasm that filled the Meadowview Convention Center.

A Celebration of Community and Giving

Beyond the on-stage presentations, the event emphasized community engagement and philanthropy. Tickets for the event were priced at $30, with proceeds benefiting local UT Alumni chapter scholarship endowments and the My All Campaign, which supports student-athlete development. This initiative underscored the university’s commitment to fostering educational opportunities and supporting the next generation of Volunteers.

Attendees were treated to light food options, a cash bar, and the opportunity to interact with fellow fans and athletic staff. The event’s family-friendly atmosphere included appearances by Smokey, the beloved mascot, and various interactive activities, ensuring that attendees of all ages felt welcomed and valued.

Looking Ahead

As the Big Orange Caravan concluded its final stop in the Tri-Cities, it marked the end of an era for this beloved tradition. However, the spirit of the caravan lives on in the connections it fostered and the memories it created. The relationships built during these events continue to strengthen the bond between Tennessee Athletics and its supporters.

Looking ahead, Tennessee Athletics remains committed to engaging with fans across the state. While the format of future outreach efforts may evolve, the core mission remains unchanged: to connect with the Volunteer community, celebrate achievements, and build lasting relationships.

In the words of Coach Heupel, “It’s the passion of the fans that makes Tennessee special.” The Big Orange Caravan may have made its final stop in the Tri-Cities, but the passion of Volunteer Nation continues to drive the success and spirit of Tennessee Athletics.

Final Thoughts

The Big Orange Caravan’s farewell to the Tri-Cities was more than just a concluding event; it was a reflection of the deep-rooted connection between Tennessee Athletics and its fans. The Meadowview Convention Center in Kingsport served as a gathering place for shared memories, mutual respect, and a collective commitment to the future of the Volunteers. As the caravan rolled out of the Tri-Cities for the last time, it left behind a legacy of unity, pride, and an enduring love for the Big Orange.