Tennessee Vols Honor 95-Year-Old Fan Who’s Attended Every Game.

In a heartwarming tribute to one of the most dedicated fans in college football history, the University of Tennessee honored George “Big George” Harrison, 95, at the spring football game this past Saturday. Harrison, a Knoxville native, has attended every home game at Neyland Stadium since 1929, making him the longest-tenured Vols fan in history. For nearly a century, George’s unwavering loyalty to Tennessee football has been a part of the fabric of Vol Nation.

George, just a 9-year-old boy when he attended his first game, remembers the days when the stadium was much smaller, and the Vols were led by legendary head coach General Robert Neyland. “I saw the T-formation in person, the crowd was roaring, and I was hooked for life,” Harrison recalls, grinning. “Through wars, economic hardship, and everything in between, football has always been there for me.” He endured the Great Depression, the highs of national championships, and the lows of rebuilding years, but he never missed a game, no matter the odds.

During the spring game, George was escorted onto the field for a special presentation. Tennessee Athletics Director Danny White presented him with a custom orange and white jacket embroidered with the phrase “Vols Forever,” along with a commemorative plaque that read: “For 95 Years of Loyalty, Passion, and True Vols Spirit.” Former players and coaches, including Peyton Manning and Al Wilson, joined the celebration, as fans in Neyland stood to cheer for George, giving him a well-deserved standing ovation.

“I’ve been through a lot over the years, but every time I step into that stadium, it feels like home,” George said with tears in his eyes. “I’ve seen a lot of wins, some tough losses, but I’ve always believed that the Vols would rise again. That’s what keeps me coming back.” George’s commitment to the Vols and his long history with the program have made him an iconic figure, and many fans who grew up hearing stories about him now make sure to shake his hand whenever they see him at games.

As part of the celebration, Tennessee announced that it will establish an annual “George Harrison Day” at Neyland Stadium to honor both George’s legacy and the enduring passion of Vol fans. “George’s commitment to this team and this community is something we all strive to live up to,” said White. “He’s seen it all, and he’s still here, supporting us every step of the way. That’s what makes Vols fans the best in the country.” As George looked around at the sea of orange, he simply said, “I’m just proud to be part of the Vol family. And I’ll keep coming as long as I can.”