Why Volunteers?

UT, draws the nickname of its athletic teams(Volunteers) from the name most associated with the state. Tennessee acquired its name "The Volunteer State" in the early days of the War of 1812. At the request of President James Madison, Gen. Andrew Jackson mustered 1500 from his home state to fight the Indians and later the British at the Battle of New Orleans. The name became even more prominent in the Mexican War when Gov. Aaron V. Brown issued a call for 2800 men to battle Santa Ana and some 30,000 Tennesseans volunteered. The dragoon uniform worn by Tennessee regulars during that conflict is still seen adorning the color guard at UT athletic events. The term "Volunteer State," as noted through these two events, recognizes the long-standing tendency of Tennesseans to go above and beyond the call of duty when their country calls. The name "Volunteers" is frequently shortened to "Vols" in describing UT's athletic teams.

http://www.utsports.com/fans/traditions.html