My Christmas Shopping Is All Done: Here’s What I Picked Out for Tony Vitello and Others
By: Adams
The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the joy (and sometimes stress) of Christmas shopping. But this year, I decided to knock it out early and make it extra special. I didn’t just shop for friends and family; I made sure to pick out gifts for some key figures in Tennessee athletics, particularly baseball coach Tony Vitello and a few other noteworthy individuals. After all, these sports figures have given us plenty to cheer about, and it’s only fair to return the favor with a little holiday spirit.
Here’s a rundown of what I picked out for Vitello and others on my Christmas shopping list this year.
Tony Vitello has turned Tennessee baseball into a national powerhouse, but let’s face it—his current trophy case might be getting a little cramped. Under his leadership, the Volunteers have won SEC championships, hosted NCAA Regionals, and even made College World Series appearances. So, my gift to him is a brand-new, extra-large trophy case.
This case will be sleek, modern, and built to hold not just the trophies he’s already won but the many more we expect him to bring home in the future. I’ll even add a little plaque at the top that says, “Reserved for the National Championship.”
Josh Heupel has completely revitalized Tennessee football, leading the Volunteers back to national relevance with his explosive offense. For the mastermind behind one of the most exciting playbooks in college football, I’m gifting a custom leather playbook cover.
This isn’t just any cover—it’s embossed with the iconic Power T logo and the words “In Hypo We Trust.” It’s a small token of appreciation for a coach who has brought so much excitement and pride back to Neyland Stadium. Plus, it’ll look great on the sidelines as he continues to call plays that leave SEC defenses in shambles.
Rick Barnes, the head coach of Tennessee basketball, has built a consistently competitive program, but let’s give him a little extra edge. My gift to Coach Barnes is a pair of lucky orange-and-white socks.
We all know basketball games can come down to the smallest details—like free throws or the bounce of a ball—and every little bit of good fortune helps. These socks are infused with good vibes and might just be the charm Tennessee needs for a deep March Madness run.
Tennessee athletic director Danny White has done a phenomenal job overseeing one of the most dynamic athletic departments in the country. However, managing multiple programs and keeping Vol Nation happy can’t be easy. That’s why I’m giving him a stress-relief kit.
This kit includes noise-canceling headphones (to drown out the constant demands of the fanbase), a yoga mat (because even ADs need to stretch and relax), and a Tennessee-themed stress ball for when things get hectic.
No Christmas shopping list for Tennessee would be complete without a gift for Smokey, the beloved bluetick coonhound mascot. Smokey has cheered on countless touchdowns, runs, and slam dunks, so he deserves a treat.
I’ve picked out a gourmet dog treat basket filled with orange-and-white dog biscuits, bacon-flavored chews, and a custom Tennessee Volunteers dog collar. Smokey deserves to be pampered, and this gift is sure to keep his tail wagging.
Finally, my gift to the fans—Vol Nation itself—is a season to remember in every sport. While I can’t deliver this gift directly, I’m hoping for a year filled with thrilling victories, championship runs, and memories that will last a lifetime.
The passionate fans of Tennessee have stuck by their teams through thick and thin, and they deserve nothing less than the absolute best. Let’s hope 2024 is a year where all the pieces come together for football, basketball, baseball, and beyond.
Christmas shopping can be a daunting task, but when it comes to Tennessee athletics, the gifts almost pick themselves. Tony Vitello, Josh Heupel, Rick Barnes, Danny White, Smokey, and Vol Nation have all contributed so much to making sports in Knoxville something truly special.
Here’s to a holiday season filled with joy, laughter, and maybe a few early wins to set the tone for an unforgettable year. Go Vols, and Merry Christmas to all!