Will Brook: Thank You, Tennessee, for an Incredible Five Years
As my time in Tennessee comes to an end, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude and reflection. These past five years have been nothing short of incredible—a journey filled with growth, challenges, triumphs, and unforgettable memories. Tennessee has been much more than just a place to compete and learn; it has been my home, my community, and the foundation upon which I have built some of the most meaningful relationships of my life.
First and foremost, I want to thank Tennessee for welcoming me with open arms and providing me with the opportunity to represent this great university. Being a Tennessee Volunteer is a privilege and an honor that I will forever cherish. The friendships and memories I’ve made here are priceless, and they will stay with me for the rest of my life.
The friendships I’ve formed during my time at Tennessee have truly shaped my experience. Whether it was bonding with my teammates during intense practices, celebrating milestones, or sharing laughter during quieter moments, these relationships have been the cornerstone of my journey. My teammates have become my family, and together we’ve faced every challenge head-on. We’ve celebrated victories and grown stronger through defeats, always united by our shared love for the game and our commitment to each other.
Outside of athletics, the friendships I’ve made on campus have also left an indelible mark. From late-night study sessions to spontaneous adventures, these moments have reminded me of the beauty of community and connection. These relationships have not only enriched my time at Tennessee but have also taught me lessons about loyalty, trust, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who inspire and support you.
To my family, I owe everything. Your unwavering love and support have been my foundation. You believed in me even on the days when I doubted myself. Your encouragement pushed me to give my best every single day. The sacrifices you made to ensure I could chase my dreams will never be forgotten, and I carry your love with me in everything I do.
To my friends and the Tennessee community, thank you for your endless support. Whether it was cheering from the stands, offering words of encouragement, or simply being there to share in the highs and lows, your presence has meant the world to me. Tennessee is special because of the people who make it so, and I’m grateful to have been part of such an extraordinary community.
To my coaches, thank you for believing in me and for pushing me to be the best version of myself. Your guidance has extended far beyond the sport, teaching me discipline, resilience, and the value of hard work. You didn’t just shape me as an athlete; you shaped me as a person. The lessons I’ve learned under your leadership will stay with me throughout my life.
Your faith in my abilities gave me the confidence to grow, and your tough love reminded me that success requires dedication and perseverance. You held me accountable and celebrated my achievements, and for that, I will always be thankful.
Being a Tennessee Volunteer is about more than just wearing orange and white—it’s about embodying the values of this great university. It’s about resilience, teamwork, and pride in representing something bigger than yourself. Tennessee has taught me what it means to be part of a legacy, and I am honored to be part of the Vol Nation.
As I prepare to move on to the next chapter of my life, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a mind full of memories. Tennessee has prepared me for the challenges ahead, and I am confident that the lessons I’ve learned here will guide me in whatever comes next.
To the fans, the staff, my teammates, and my mentors—thank you for believing in me and for supporting me through this incredible journey. I am proud to say that I will forever be a Vol For Life.
With gratitude,
Will Brook