March 11, 2010

IMG College/Vol Network, the University of Tennessee and 104.5 The Zone (WGFX-FM) in Nashville have announced a five-year partnership in which the station will become the radio home of University of Tennessee athletics in Middle Tennessee beginning with the 2010-11 season.

The Zone will air every University of Tennessee football game, every men's basketball game, Vol Calls, daily updates from University of Tennessee play-by-play voice Bob Kesling, and other weekly Vol Network programming beginning in August.

104.5 The Zone is currently the flagship home for the NFL's Tennessee Titans and NHL's Nashville Predators. The Vol Network had previously been on AM 1510 WLAC in Nashville for 17 years.

"We are extremely excited about our partnership with 104.5 The Zone," said Mike Hamilton, UT Director of Athletics. "Not only does this give us tremendous visibility in the Middle Tennessee market, but it's a great opportunity for Tennessee basketball to be aired on one of the top sports radio stations in the country. We look forward to a great partnership for years to come."

"The Vol Network is very proud and excited that 104.5 The Zone will be the new home of the Tennessee Volunteers in the state capital," said Steve Early, General Manager of IMG College/Vol Network. "The Zone's sports commitment and dominance in the marketplace made it 'the' choice for UT athletics and Vol Network programming. We are very excited about the daily exposure and coverage this will bring the University of Tennessee and a huge fan base in Middle Tennessee. The Vols and The Zone are going to be a terrific partnership and association."

"We are excited to partner with the most popular collegiate brand in the state of Tennessee and a program with such a rich history," said Brad Willis, Program Director of 104.5 The Zone.