Tennessee Vols Owner Invites Entire Team to “Calnival” in Celebration of Breakout Season
In a gesture that has electrified Vol Nation and cemented his reputation as a player’s owner, Tennessee Volunteers football team owner, Jonathan Callahan, has extended a personal invitation to the entire team, coaching staff, and their families to attend a massive offseason celebration dubbed the “Calnival.”
The event, named as a portmanteau of Callahan’s last name and the word “carnival,” is set to take place on Callahan’s private estate in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Sources close to the program reveal it will be nothing short of a spectacle, complete with food trucks, live music, amusement park rides, a fireworks display, and even a dunk tank where players can take their shot at dunking their head coach, Jameel Jackson.
The reason behind the celebration? A breakout 2024 season that saw the Volunteers defy expectations, finishing with a 10-2 regular-season record, an SEC East title, and a berth in the Sugar Bowl — their first in over two decades.
A Year to Remember
Coming into the 2024 season, the Vols were not on many analysts’ radars. With an unproven quarterback, a largely new defensive staff, and a schedule loaded with top-25 opponents, most predicted a rebuilding year. But under the steady leadership of Coach Jackson and behind the explosive performance of junior quarterback Malik Brewer, the team soared past expectations.
Brewer threw for over 3,800 yards and 29 touchdowns, while the defense — led by All-SEC linebacker Carter Simmons — forced a conference-high 27 turnovers. The Vols’ stunning upset of Alabama in Tuscaloosa in October became an instant classic and solidified their return to national relevance.
Callahan’s Grand Gesture
Speaking at a press conference held at Neyland Stadium on Saturday, Callahan expressed his admiration and appreciation for the team’s perseverance.
“This team did something special,” said Callahan, wearing a bright orange blazer emblazoned with the Power T. “They brought pride back to Knoxville, and they showed the country what Volunteer grit really means. The Calnival is my way of saying thank you, and making sure these young men know just how much they mean to us.”
Callahan, who purchased a controlling stake in the Vols’ athletic brand licensing group in 2022 — making him the de facto “owner” in the NIL era — has become known for his hands-on approach and unwavering support for the team.
“He’s more than just a businessman,” said senior offensive tackle Darnell Fields. “He’s at practice. He’s in the locker room after wins and losses. He gets it. And to throw a party like this, it just shows how much he believes in us.”
What to Expect at the Calnival
According to event planners, the Calnival will feature:
- A 50-foot Ferris wheel overlooking the Smoky Mountains
- A custom barbecue station hosted by celebrity chef Rodney Scott
- A mini-concert by country music star Morgan Wallen
- Laser tag fields and a VR gaming truck
- An awards ceremony celebrating team achievements
- A red carpet entrance for players and their families
All expenses — from transportation to lodging — are being covered by Callahan himself. “The only thing the players need to bring is their appetite and their best dance moves,” joked Callahan.
The Calnival is also expected to be broadcast on the SEC Network as part of a new docu-series highlighting offseason life for college athletes.
More Than Just a Party
While the event is certainly a celebration, many within the program say it’s also about reinforcing a culture of gratitude, brotherhood, and unity. Coach Jackson emphasized that while the party is a moment of joy, the deeper value lies in team bonding.
“These moments off the field are just as crucial as what we do on Saturdays,” said Jackson. “It’s about building relationships, creating memories, and showing our guys that what they accomplished mattered.”
Parents of players are also deeply appreciative. Marsha Brewer, mother of Malik Brewer, became emotional when discussing the invite.
“As a mom, you always want your child to be supported and celebrated. What Mr. Callahan is doing is beyond what any of us expected,” she said. “It’s a blessing.”
Looking Ahead
With much of the core roster expected to return in 2025 — including Brewer, Simmons, and breakout freshman wideout Tyler James — expectations are sky-high in Knoxville. Recruiting has also seen a boost, with several top prospects citing Tennessee’s “family-first” atmosphere as a major factor in their interest.
Analysts say gestures like the Calnival may not directly affect wins and losses, but they can help solidify a positive culture and build long-term loyalty.
“The Vols are setting a new standard for what a college football program can look like in the NIL era,” said ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit. “This isn’t just about money or perks. It’s about culture, relationships, and showing athletes they’re valued beyond their performance.”
Vol Nation Reacts
Social media exploded with excitement following the announcement, with #Calnival trending on X (formerly Twitter) within hours. Fans have started sharing their own costume ideas, hoping Callahan might open a limited number of public tickets to the event — though for now, it remains a private team celebration.
Callahan hasn’t ruled out expanding the concept in the future.
“Who knows?” he said with a grin. “If we bring home a national title next year, maybe we’ll take the Calnival on tour.”