Thursday marked a historic moment for Tennessee sports enthusiasts, with the official announcement that Mike Keith will succeed Bob Kesling as the Voice of the Vols. This transition, set to take effect next fall, heralds a new era in Vol Radio Network history while preserving the cherished traditions fans have come to love.

A New Era Begins: Mike Keith Assumes Play-by-Play Duties for Tennessee Sports

The Legacy Continues: A Smooth Transition from Bob Kesling

Bob Kesling, an iconic figure in Tennessee sports broadcasting, will complete his tenure following the men’s basketball season before retiring. His contributions to UT athletics have been nothing short of legendary. As the baton passes to Mike Keith, anticipation builds for what lies ahead. Keith, who has spent over two decades as the voice of the Tennessee Titans, brings a wealth of experience and a deep connection to Tennessee sports. The appointment is not just a professional milestone but also an emotional one for Keith. “It’s almost surreal,” he remarked in an exclusive interview. “Only four people have held this position before me, and I hold them in high regard. To be part of this lineage feels extraordinary.”Keith’s role extends beyond football and basketball play-by-play duties on the Vol Radio Network. He will also contribute to additional programming, details of which are yet to be revealed. Fans eagerly await these announcements, knowing Keith’s involvement will bring fresh perspectives and engaging content.

Tennessee Baseball: A Legend Stands Firm

One question lingered among fans: Would Keith also take on baseball broadcasts? The answer, however, was clear and respectful. John Wilkerson, the long-standing voice of Tennessee baseball, remains an irreplaceable figure. Keith expressed his admiration for Wilkerson, stating, “John Wilkerson is synonymous with Vol Baseball. He’s the best at what he does, and there’s no reason to change that.” The duo worked together during the 90s, forming a bond that has endured through the years. They continue to collaborate on Sports Talk, a popular program hosted by Wilkerson on The Sports Animal. Keith joins weekly to discuss NFL and Tennessee Titans updates, showcasing their mutual respect and camaraderie.While Keith won’t be stepping into Wilkerson’s shoes for baseball broadcasts, he hinted at potential involvement in SEC Network Plus games. “I look forward to contributing to those productions,” he shared. “But I’ll stay well away from anything John handles. My respect for him runs too deep.”

Coming Home: A Natural Fit for Mike Keith

Keith’s return to Tennessee after 27 years with the Titans feels like a homecoming. For 26 of those years, he served as the sole play-by-play voice for the Titans, becoming a household name in Nashville. Yet, when the opportunity arose to reconnect with his roots, the decision was easy. “The call to come home was simple,” Keith reflected. “Tennessee has always held a special place in my heart.”Next fall, Keith will lead the charge in the radio booth at Neyland Stadium for football and at Thompson-Boling Arena for basketball. He will be joined by color commentators, adding depth and insight to each broadcast. While changes are on the horizon, some elements remain constant. The Vol Radio Network may evolve, but the essence of Tennessee sports broadcasting will endure.

Honoring Tradition: Respecting John Wilkerson’s Legacy

Keith’s respect for John Wilkerson cannot be overstated. “Fans know how much they appreciate John,” Keith noted. “When something works exceptionally well, you don’t tamper with it. And John does it incredibly well.” This sentiment underscores the importance of honoring established traditions while embracing new beginnings. As the new Voice of the Vols, Keith aims to build upon the foundation laid by his predecessors, ensuring that Tennessee sports continue to thrive under his watchful eye.