A heartfelt farewell to Bob Kesling, the 26-year Tennessee Volunteers announcer | Letter
As the Tennessee Volunteers begin a new chapter in their storied history, we say farewell to a voice that has been with us through triumphs and heartbreak, through unforgettable plays and historic moments. For 26 years, Bob Kesling was more than just the voice of the Volunteers; he was the embodiment of Tennessee football and basketball, a trusted companion for fans who would gather each game to hear his familiar call. Today, as Bob prepares to step away from the microphone, we take a moment to reflect on his unparalleled career, his impact on our community, and what his presence meant to us all.
The Voice of Tennessee
In the world of sports, there are few things as iconic as a team’s announcer. For the Tennessee Volunteers, Bob Kesling became that voice—a figure who, over the course of 26 seasons, painted vivid pictures of every game with his words, his passion, and his unwavering dedication. To hear Bob call a game was to experience the very essence of Tennessee sports. His deep baritone voice resonated in every corner of Neyland Stadium, Thompson-Boling Arena, and the homes of thousands of Volunteers fans who tuned in to hear him bring the action to life.
From the first snap of the ball to the final whistle, Bob’s voice had a way of pulling listeners into the moment, making every touchdown, every three-pointer, every game-changing play feel significant. His descriptions weren’t just technical; they were imbued with the emotion of the moment. Whether it was the roar of the crowd after a pivotal touchdown or the hush before a critical free throw, Bob could capture the essence of the event in a way that made fans feel like they were right there with the players.
A Legacy Built on Consistency
While many things in the world of sports change—rosters shift, coaches come and go, players leave their mark on the field or court—Bob Kesling’s steady presence remained a constant. It is this consistency that became one of his greatest gifts to the University of Tennessee and its fans. Through seasons of wins and losses, highs and lows, Bob’s voice was always a comforting constant, guiding us through each game with professionalism and passion. His commitment to the Volunteers was unmatched, and that dedication gave fans a sense of security and pride in knowing that, no matter what happened on the field, Bob would be there to call it all.
There’s a certain kind of magic in consistency—the way a familiar face or a favorite song can make you feel grounded, connected to something larger than yourself. Bob was that for Tennessee. He became synonymous with Vols sports in a way that few announcers ever do. His voice was not just an accompaniment to the games; it was part of the experience, part of the joy of being a Tennessee Volunteer.
Behind the Mic: The Man Behind the Voice
While Bob’s professional achievements are undeniable, it is the man behind the microphone who truly endeared him to fans, athletes, coaches, and colleagues alike. Bob Kesling was a mentor, a friend, and a source of inspiration for so many. His deep knowledge of the game, his thoughtful analysis, and his calm, collected demeanor were hallmarks of his time in the booth. But it was his personal connection to the people of Tennessee that made him more than just an announcer—it made him a beloved figure in the Volunteer community.
Bob was always quick with a kind word, always willing to take the time to speak with fans and share in their love of Tennessee sports. He understood the impact sports had on people’s lives, and he never took for granted the privilege of being a part of that experience. In every broadcast, Bob showed a deep respect for the team, for the coaches, and most importantly, for the fans. He knew that being the voice of Tennessee wasn’t just about calling plays—it was about representing a legacy, a community, and a tradition that spanned generations.
The Memorable Calls
When you think of Bob Kesling’s career, it’s impossible not to recall some of the unforgettable moments he helped bring to life. Whether it was the thrilling finish to a football game or the drama of a buzzer-beater in basketball, Bob was always there, his voice rising with excitement as the Volunteers made history. But beyond the specific plays and moments, it was the way Bob described these events that made his calls so memorable. He had a gift for weaving narrative into every play, for making even the smallest details feel monumental.
One could close their eyes and hear Bob’s unmistakable voice in the back of their mind: “Touchdown, Tennessee!” or “The Volunteers win!” His signature calls became a part of the fabric of Tennessee sports, a soundtrack to the highs and lows of every season. And for the generations of Volunteers fans who grew up listening to him, those calls will live on in our memories long after Bob has stepped away from the booth.
More Than Just a Job
For Bob, this was never just a job—it was a calling. His passion for Tennessee athletics wasn’t something that could be faked or replicated. It came from deep within, from a genuine love for the teams, the school, and the people who made up the Volunteer Nation. Bob’s commitment to excellence was evident in every game he called. He wasn’t just there to report the facts; he was there to bring the story of each game to life, to make each moment feel as important as the last.
He worked tirelessly to prepare for every broadcast, pouring over stats, game notes, and scouting reports, always ensuring that his listeners would receive the most thorough and insightful coverage possible. But what truly set Bob apart was his ability to balance that preparation with a sense of spontaneity and excitement. He knew how to capture the pulse of the game, how to make each play feel like it was unfolding in real time, even when the moment had passed.
The Heart of Volunteer Nation
Bob Kesling was more than just a voice; he was the heart of Volunteer Nation. He represented the spirit of Tennessee sports—proud, resilient, and always striving for greatness. He spoke not just to the fans in the stadium or those listening at home, but to all of us who share in the dream of what it means to be a Volunteer. Through Bob’s voice, we were all connected, a family bound together by our love for Tennessee.
His retirement marks the end of an era, but it also reminds us of the incredible legacy he leaves behind. The impact of his work will be felt for years to come, in the memories he helped create and in the lasting impression he made on each of us. Though he may no longer call the games, Bob’s influence will continue to be a part of the Tennessee experience.
A Thank You from the Volunteer Nation
As we say goodbye to Bob Kesling, we do so with immense gratitude. Thank you, Bob, for your dedication, your passion, and your unwavering commitment to Tennessee. Thank you for the countless hours you spent in preparation, the joy you brought to each broadcast, and the way you made us feel connected to our teams. Thank you for being a steady, comforting presence through every season and for helping us celebrate the victories and cope with the defeats.
You have been more than just an announcer—you’ve been a part of the family. And as you step away from the microphone, know that you leave behind a legacy that will never fade. Your voice will always echo in the hearts of Tennessee fans, and your place in Volunteer history is forever secure.
We will miss you in the booth, but we know that your contributions to Tennessee athletics will live on. From all of us, thank you for being the voice of the Volunteers for 26 unforgettable years. You have made us proud to be Vols, and for that, we will be forever grateful.
A Forever Volunteer
As Bob Kesling leaves the microphone for the final time, it’s not just a career that ends, but a chapter in the history of Tennessee Volunteers sports. Bob’s voice has been the soundtrack to so many unforgettable moments, a constant presence in our lives that will be dearly missed. But just as Tennessee football and basketball will continue to be a source of pride for generations to come, Bob Kesling’s legacy will continue to inspire and remind us of what it means to be a Volunteer.
Bob, thank you for the memories, the calls, and the joy you’ve given us over the years. Your place in Tennessee history is forever secured, and you’ll always be a Volunteer in our hearts.