Homecoming To Celebrate Volunteer Journey With Monica Abbott as Grand Marshal

Members of the Pride of the Southland Band walk along Volunteer Boulevard during the 2025 Homecoming parade. The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, will celebrate Homecoming Nov. 1-7, bringing together students, alumni and fans to reconnect with the university’s history, traditions and spirit. This year’s theme, All Roads Lead to Tennessee, honors the many paths that bring members of the Volunteer community to Rocky Top.

Vol for Life Monica Abbott (’08) will serve as grand marshal of this year’s Homecoming parade. One of the most decorated college softball players in history, Abbott threw 23 no-hitters and six perfect games during her Tennessee career. She led the Lady Vols to three consecutive Women’s College World Series appearances from 2005 to 2007, making it to the finals in 2007.

After earning her degree from the College of Communication and Information, Abbott went on to win two silver medals in the Olympics and a gold medal at the 2010 World Championship, and she was named Japan Softball League MVP for three years. She founded the Monica Abbott Scholarship to support multisport female athletes who demonstrate leadership on the field and in the classroom.

Summary of the outlet's own feed. From UT News (Knoxville), October 26, 2026.