There has been no previous attempt to assemble an account of outdoor track and field at the University of Tennessee. Thus, it is the purpose of this paper to describe the origin and development of outdoor track and field athletics at Tennessee; to chart its progress from year to year; to describe the deeds of individuals who were active participants in the track and field program; and to relate through emphasis on school records the evolvement of performances.

1889-1911

The first known track and field meet for University of Tennessee students took place on April 12, 1889. The occasion was the first Field Day and was held at Elmwood Park in Knoxville.

1909-1922

The first varsity track and field team was organized in 1909. Professor John A. Switzer organized the team and selected his personnel from the winners of the 21st Annual Field Day.

1923-1932

At a meeting held in Atlanta officials of the larger schools in the SIAA decided to group into a separate conference. Tennessee joined 22 other large schools from the South in the new Southern Intercollegiate Conference which began operating on December 7, 1923.

1933-1946

In 1932 it became apparent that the Southern Conference was too large and unwieldy for good competition. A division along geographical lines was agreed on by representatives, and the Southeastern Conference (SEC) was formed consisting of Alabama, Auburn, Florida, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Kentucky, Louisiana State, Mississippi, Mississippi State, Sewanee, Tennessee, Tulane, and Vanderbilt.

1947-1962

Tennessee returned to track in 1947 with Walter Mehl as the coach. Under Coach Mehl’s leadership the Volunteers entered an era that surpassed even the 1920 teams in interest and enthusiasm.

1962-1971

Chuck Rohe and Ray Mears exceeded all expectations. Their dedication, enthusiasm, and leadership turned the tide and led directly to the success of Tennessee’s initiative to excel in all sports. It was the beginning of a new era for sports other than football at the University of Tennessee.