It's where the Vols have scored the most memorable touchdowns at home. It's where Smokey runs after the extra point is made. It's synonymous with The University of Tennessee. 

The famous Orange and White hues were chosen by Charles Moore, a player for the first Volunteer Football squad in 1891. Taking notice of the American Daisies on The Hill on campus, he found inspiration for the perfect colors to feature on their uniforms. 

Black and white photo from 1939 team for color reference.

The checkerboard end-zones themselves didn't come until 1964 when Coach Doug Dickey released them for the game against Boston College. They were used until 1968, when the Volunteers switched to artificial turf. It wasn't until 1989 that the iconic checkerboard end-zones returned, after which so did the natural grass field that is still used today. It's freshly painted before home games, as seen below.

When Volunteer Traditions began using UT licensed items, the checkerboard was one of the first touches we started to add to our products. From plackets on polos and pullovers, to shirts all their own, the checkerboard is the classic Vols look that we love. It is featured on many of our best-selling products for Fall and it isn't going anywhere any time soon. 

Items featuring the UT Checkerboard are available for purchase. Click pictures below. 

To view the entire Vols Licensed Collection click here.