KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — The University of Tennessee announced Monday that Smokey XI is retiring from official mascot duties, nearly four years after announcing the young pup as the successor to his father, Smokey X.
The university released a statement that Smokey XI’s reserved temperament continued to affect his comfort in public outings despite over two years of training and acclimation efforts by his handlers, trainers, and veterinary team.
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“For his well-being and happiness, Smokey XI will immediately step away from mascot responsibilities and enjoy a quiet, peaceful retirement with his pack — his brother, his dad Smokey X and the Hudson family.
University of Tennessee statement
The university is pursuing options for Smokey XII for next season in coordination with the Hudsons, the family who has owned and trained many of the bluetick coonhounds who have served as the school’s live mascot.
Smokey XI was tabbed to take over official mascot duties in 2023, but was ultimately never able to fulfill the rigorous public demands of the live gameday mascot. Smokey X came out of retirement to run through the T at home football games during the 2023 season…