The Vols’ run to the College World Series has special meaning for the TN family

OMAHA, Nebraska (WKRN) — The Tennessee Volunteers are just one win away from their first College World Series title.

For a fan, Monday’s game has special meaning in several ways.

Wes Boling, a UT graduate and former Tennessee sportscaster, saw his life turned upside down in February when his wife, Lisa, unexpectedly struggled with a serious health issue. As fate would have it, the Bolings moved to Omaha for specialized medical care just as the Volunteers came to town for the college playoffs.

“When the final out was made between Tennessee and Evansville in the Super Regional and Tennessee clinched their ticket to Omaha, it was an emotional moment for me,” Boling said. “Yes, I’m a huge baseball fan and wear orange all year long, but I also knew this would be an opportunity for my family to visit us and for my team to be here.”

Boling has jumped at the chance to have the Vols come to him. He attended numerous games during Tennessee’s incredible run to the College World Series and enjoyed the experience with his young son, Cameron.

“I’ll remind him that he was here. That his very first sporting event was a national championship opportunity for the University of Tennessee,” Boling said. “I think the College World Series made him feel special and seen.”

Boling praised his son for persevering during this difficult time. He said he has tried to keep Cameron busy with normal, fun activities, like going to the zoo, but as Lisa slowly improves, baseball has become a way for father and son to bond.

“Sports is a bonding tool,” Boling joked. “And when we join together in it, it brings us closer to our team, but more importantly, it brings us closer to each other.”

While his parents, brother and sister are all in Omaha to watch the Vols try to win their first baseball title, Boling said the outcome of Game 3 on Monday doesn’t matter. Instead, Boling will enjoy time with his family.

“Whatever happens tonight, we know we made a memory,” Boling said.

Still, a win on Monday night would stir all kinds of emotions for Boling.

“I think there will be big smiles; there will be some tears and hugs. It’s a little late for my son to go to the game on a weekday, but I’ll come back and hug him when he’s sleeping, cuddle him a little and just whisper in his ear, ‘I love you, and this experience with you has meant the world to me.'”