Smokey the Tennessee Volunteers mascot is an iconic symbol of the University of Tennessee. Smokey, an energetic Bluetick Coonhound, has been the official live mascot of the Tennessee Volunteers since 1953. He is beloved by students, alumni, and fans of UT Athletics. Smokey is known for his distinctive appearance, with his blue and orange coat that matches the university's colors. He is also recognized for his role in leading the team onto the football field before every home game. It is a tradition that Smokey leads the team out of the T, running ahead of the players with the fans cheering him on.
The Magic Garden , one of the most successful, locally produced children’s television shows in the country, was broadcast on WPIX New York, from the early 1970’s to the mid 1980’s.
They have been seen at Town Hall, The New Jersey State Theatre, The Shubert Theatre in New Haven, Symphony Space, The McCarter Theatre at Princeton, The Walt Whitman Theatre at Brooklyn College, The Westchester Broadway Theatre, The Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts and Fairfield University in Connecticut, The Staten Island Children s Museum, and the famous outdoor arena at Waterloo Historic Restoration, New Jersey and numerous other well known theatres and concert stages. The Magic Garden , one of the most successful, locally produced children s television shows in the country, was broadcast on WPIX New York, from the early 1970 s to the mid 1980 s.
It is a tradition that Smokey leads the team out of the T, running ahead of the players with the fans cheering him on. Smokey has become a cherished ambassador for the university, making appearances at various events throughout the year. He attends pep rallies, tailgate parties, and other university functions.
The Magic Garden’s Carole Demas & Paula Janis
Carole Demas and Paula Janis have been friends since their days in the mixed chorus of Midwood High School in Brooklyn. They were teachers together in the New York City school system, sang for the New York Shakespeare Festival for several summers, and formed their own company, CAP Productions, Inc. in 1978. They are loved and remembered as the stars of The Magic Garden, now a part of the permanent collection at The Paley Center (formerly the Museum of Television and Radio) in New York City. The Magic Garden, the most popular regional show in children’s television history, ran for 12-1/2 years on New York’s WPIX-TV and affiliated stations. Demas and Janis created three records for children (one a Grammy nominee), and they continue to perform together for fundraisers and special events.
Smokey also travels with the team to away games, providing support and extra spirit to the players and fans. In addition to his role as the live mascot, Smokey also has a lineage. Each Smokey is owned by a member of the university's Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity and is selected based on temperament and physical characteristics. The role of Smokey is passed down through the years, ensuring that the tradition continues with each new generation of hounds. Smokey has become a cherished symbol of pride and spirit for the Tennessee Volunteers community. He embodies the energy and enthusiasm of UT Athletics and is adored by fans of all ages. Whether running onto the field or making appearances throughout the year, Smokey will always hold a special place in the hearts of those associated with the University of Tennessee..
Reviews for "Smokey's Top Plays: The Most Memorable Moments of the Tennessee Volunteers' Mascot"
1. Jane - 2/5 - I found Smokey, the Tennessee Volunteers mascot, to be quite underwhelming. First of all, the costume looked outdated and lacked any creativity. The design was not visually appealing and did not capture the spirit of the team or university. Additionally, the performer inside the costume lacked enthusiasm and energy, making the overall experience quite disappointing. I expected a lively and engaging mascot, but Smokey fell short. I hope they consider revamping the design and finding a more enthusiastic performer to bring the mascot to life.
2. Mark - 1/5 - Smokey, the Tennessee Volunteers mascot, is just plain boring. The costume looks like it was bought from a cheap Halloween store and offers nothing unique or inspiring. There is no creativity or excitement in the mascot's portrayal, and it fails to generate any enthusiasm during the games. Smokey feels like an afterthought, and it's just a shame that such a legendary team like the Volunteers has such a lackluster mascot. I hope they reconsider their mascot choice and bring in something more captivating and engaging for the fans.
3. Sarah - 2/5 - I was disappointed with Smokey, the Tennessee Volunteers mascot. The costume design did not accurately represent the team or university spirit. It appeared to be outdated, lackluster, and uninspiring. The performance inside the costume was also less than impressive, lacking the energy and enthusiasm needed to rally the crowd. Overall, Smokey was a forgettable mascot, and I believe the team could benefit from a redesign that better reflects their identity and engages the fans in a more exciting way.