KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — From a sea of orange spanning across Gay Street to Vols players signing random babies, the National Championship celebration in downtown Knoxville were marked by some incredible moments.
By 6 p.m., the entirety of downtown and Market Square was packed with thousands upon thousands of fans sporting orange and white.
Zander Sechrist could be seen signing a fan's child as the parade moved slowly through the street.
UT Baseball coach Tony Vitello gave his share of autographs as well, as he made time in the parade to sign a woman's shirt. He also signed hats and other merchandise from fans. Before the parade started, he briefly spoke with WBIR reporters and said he was "overwhelmed" by the College World Series victory and the celebration.
The parade attracted a variety of characters and fans. The Knoxville Pipes and Drums took part in the parade, marching down Gay Street with baseball players and Vitello. Former quarterback and Tennessee Athletics DJ also joined in the fun, cheering the team's top rating.
As the parade came to a close in Market Square, Vitello along with his team came to rest on stage to honor their National Championship win. Players who previously played with Vitello surprised him with a mashup video of them congratulating the team's recent success. That video can be seen below.
He was also met with praise from community leaders like Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon and Director of Athletics Danny White. During his speech, Vitello highlighted the sense of unity between the team's members and thanked community for welcoming the team back to Knoxville with cheers.
After his speech, some members of the team took the stage and answered questions about the College World Series and their experiences playing for Tennessee.