What a journey!

With great excitement, I want to share that I am joining the WVLT-TV Sports Team. I am the new Sports Anchor and multimedia journalist for Knoxville’s CBS affiliate, which is the flagship station of the Tennessee Volunteers.

Master of Science 2015

Master of Science 2015

As many know, I grew up in west Tennessee and it has certainly been an honor to report for the Vols these past four years. I am a two-time alum of the University of Tennessee and the beautiful hills of Knoxville will always be considered my home-away-from-home. I’m proud to have earned a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Recreation and Sport Management all while covering TN Athletics.

During my time at the University of Tennessee, I met so many of my Vol heroes and have memories and experiences that will truly last a lifetime.

I am forever grateful for my friends and teammates of VFL Films and The Vol Network.

Sara emceed the Partners in Sports Spring Reception. Guest speaker Hall of Fame Coach Phillip Fulmer

Sara emceed the Partners in Sports Spring Reception. Guest speaker Hall of Fame Coach Phillip Fulmer

Link Hudson: Thank you for believing in me. I appreciate the chance you took when you allowed me to host the very first live coverage of UT’s National Signing Day. Your guidance and wisdom is untouched.

Barry Rice: Working with excellence is a dream for most; it was reality for me. Thank you for allowing me an opportunity to see some of the finest and most exciting video excellence in the world.

Steve Early: From Vol Calls with Bob Kesling and Brent Hubbs to the Kick Off Call In Show “Vol Navy Report” on game days, you have been an incredible source of motivation and guidance. I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to intern with The Vol Network my senior year of college which launched many connections and a career.

Voice of the Vols Bob Kesling

Voice of the Vols Bob Kesling

Brandon Parks: Thank you for allowing me to gain valuable experience and memories from Saturdays in Neyland Stadium that are etched in my memory forever. Your unlimited direction and support are a blessing to me.

Sara Mitchell & Travis Dean

Sara Mitchell & Travis Dean

Travis Dean: The best Vol Report producer I could ask for! Not only did I learn fantastic tunes set to video and how to shoot football practice, I gained a lifelong friend.

Andy Jeffers: Encouragement goes a long way; constructive criticism goes even further. Thanks for always pushing me to improve and have spirit and energy no matter what.

Tom Githens: The standard to reach a successful broadcast has been set high because of you. Thanks for your leadership and laughter!

Trevor, Erik, Sam S., Daniel, Sam T.: Each of you have uniquely assisted me along the way, and I’m grateful to have shared countless events with you.

KNOXVILLE,TN - FEBRUARY 04, 2015 -  inside of National Signing Day in Knoxville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Athletics

KNOXVILLE,TN – FEBRUARY 04, 2015 – inside of National Signing Day in Knoxville, TN. Photo By Donald Page/Tennessee Athletics

I could not continue on this journalism journey without the help of many individuals. I am grateful for the friendships and talent I met along the way; thank you! Also, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention my family who has been a constant source of encouragement and motivation. I’m thankful for our “Mitchell Party of Six!”

Vol Nation, thanks for making this an enjoyable ride! I cannot wait to continue reporting and sharing the stories of East Tennessee athletics. The sports team at WVLT is exceptional, and I hope you’ll catch us on WVLT Local 8 in Knoxville or Local8Now.com. 

Signing off for this last Vol Report, I’m Sara Mitchell.

VFL Jamal Lewis (RB 1997-2000)

VFL Jamal Lewis (RB 1997-2000)

Lady Vols Basketball Coach Holly Warlick

Lady Vols Basketball Coach Holly Warlick

Peyton Manning

VFL Peyton Manning

IMG_2307

VFL Condredge Holloway

Tennessee Spring Football Game 2013.  Mack Brown, Neyland Award recipient.

Tennessee Spring Football Game 2013. Mack Brown, Neyland Award recipient.

Vol Football Head Coach Butch Jones and host Sara Mitchell

Vol Football Head Coach Butch Jones and host Sara Mitchell

Voice of the Vols John Ward

Voice of the Vols John Ward 1965 – 1998

UT Saturday with Smokey

UT Saturday with Smokey

Director of Player Personnel Bob Welton assists with the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge

Director of Player Personnel Bob Welton assists with the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge

Dr. Jerry Punch at Battle at Bristol announcement

Dr. Jerry Punch at Battle at Bristol announcement

Ben Bates, Steve Early, John Ward, Mikia Scott, Sara Mitchell, Link Hudson, Andy Jeffers

Hand Digital Studio Dedication

Travis Dean and Sara Mitchell

Vol Report team: Sara Mitchell & Travis Dean