Planes, Buses, and Bowl Games: Logistics of Tennessee Athletics

Episode Summary: Traveling with college athletics isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s a high-stakes operation that impacts academics, performance, and team morale. In this episode of From the Runway Up, Becky and Caitlin take listeners inside the world of University of Tennessee athletics travel. First, Dr. Catherine Greene of Lady Vols Basketball reveals what it takes to coordinate smooth charter flights, manage NCAA tournament surprises, and keep student-athletes on schedule. Then, Andrew Goodman, Director of Football Operations, explains how moving 200+ people each week demands year-long planning, precise execution, and a steady hand when the unexpected happens.

From pizzas delivered on the runway to weather detours and bowl game charters, you’ll hear stories that prove great operations are often invisible—but absolutely essential.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why charter flights are critical for student-athletes’ academic success and physical recovery.
• How UT staff handle unexpected challenges like COVID-era travel chaos, weather diversions, and NCAA postseason logistics.
• The differences between basketball and football operations, from small team rosters to 200-person travel parties.
• The art of contingency planning when your season—and your flight schedule—are on the line.
• How “success” in operations often means no one notices anything went wrong.
• A look ahead at McGhee Tyson Airport’s growing role in sports travel, including Southwest Airlines’ arrival as the official airline of the SEC.

Key Guests:

• Dr. Catherine Greene – Executive Director of Basketball Operations & Chief of Staff, Lady Vols Basketball
• Andrew Goodman – Director of Football Operations, University of Tennessee

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