EMOTIONAL FAREWELL: Phillip Fulmer Bids Goodbye to Tennessee — Vols Legend Thanks Fans in Powerful Parting Message: “From the Bottom of My Heart…”
KNOXVILLE, TN — An era officially came to a close as beloved Tennessee Volunteers legend Phillip Fulmer delivered a heartfelt and emotional farewell to the university that shaped his life and career. In a powerful message addressed to fans, alumni, and the wider college football world, Fulmer thanked the Tennessee faithful “from the bottom of my heart,” marking the end of his decades-long relationship with the program he helped define.
Fulmer, 73, who served as both the Volunteers’ head coach and later athletic director, leaves behind a legacy few in college football can rival. His departure marks not just the end of an administrative chapter, but a symbolic farewell from one of the true giants in the sport’s history — a man whose name is forever etched into the soul of Rocky Top.
“I’ve given everything I had to this university because it gave everything to me,” Fulmer said in his message. “It’s been the honor of my life to serve Tennessee — as a player, as a coach, and as an ambassador. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for allowing me to be part of your lives and this incredible tradition.”
A native of Winchester, Tennessee, Fulmer played offensive guard for the Vols in the late 1960s before returning to the program in the 1980s as an assistant coach. He took over as head coach in 1992 and led Tennessee to unprecedented heights. Under his leadership, the Volunteers captured the 1998 national championship — the program’s first in nearly 50 years — and won two SEC titles. His tenure produced countless NFL players and memorable Saturdays in Neyland Stadium.
With a career head coaching record of 152–52, Fulmer is one of the winningest coaches in SEC history. His contributions helped cement Tennessee’s status as a national power and elevated the program’s brand across the country.
But Fulmer’s impact wasn’t just about wins and trophies. His steady leadership, loyalty to the program, and dedication to student-athletes made him a pillar of the Tennessee community. As athletic director from 2017 to 2021, he stepped in during a tumultuous time and helped stabilize the department while guiding the search for new leadership.
Fans across Big Orange Nation responded with an outpouring of love, sharing memories and tributes on social media. From former players like Peyton Manning to longtime supporters, the message was consistent: Fulmer wasn’t just a coach — he was family.
“I owe so much to Coach Fulmer,” Manning wrote. “He believed in me, challenged me, and helped shape who I am today. His legacy will live on forever at Tennessee.”
As Fulmer steps away, he leaves behind more than a résumé. He leaves behind a legacy of resilience, passion, and unwavering commitment to Tennessee football. His emotional goodbye is a reminder that college football, at its best, is about more than games — it’s about people, connection, and lifelong impact.
“I may be stepping back, but I’ll always be a Vol,” Fulmer concluded. “Tennessee will forever be in my blood.”
And for Vol Nation, Phillip Fulmer will forever be a part of its heart.
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