University of Tennessee Athletics
Q&A with Coach Lance Thompson
April 13, 2009 | Football
April 13, 2009
1. Why did you choose to come to Tennessee?
It's a great place. It's got a great tradition, got a lot of passionate fans and then the opportunity to work for Lane and work under a guy like Monte, it's just a great opportunity.
2. What has the transition to UT been like?
It's been great as far as getting to know the people of Tennessee, knowing the staff and the way we work well together. We've really enjoyed each other and we know we've got a lot of work to do but we're looking forward to the challenge.
3. What does Spring Practice mean to you?
Spring practice is the reason you coach. It's a chance to work with the players, help them develop, learn a little bit about them, see what their ability levels are and see what they do well. It's the best time of coaching because you don't win and you don't lose, it's just coaching.
4. What has your impression of Knoxville been so far?
I really enjoy Knoxville, I haven't had much time to see it but I've met a bunch of wonderful people. They have a great energy level and intensity about Tennessee football. I've got three daughters and they've got great schools and great sports programs for young girls so I'm looking forward to it for them too.
5. What do you think is the #1 reason recruits choose Tennessee?
The number one reason for recruits to choose Tennessee is that it's a great opportunity and it's an opportunity where I think they can reach their goals and have their dreams come true. When I recruit to any school, it is about the opportunity for the young man and believing in the school I represent and the people I represent so from that standpoint I think kids will come to Tennessee because it is a great opportunity.
6. After working with one of Tennessee's rivals, how does if feel to join Tennessee?
As a coach, I understand the rivalry from the other side. People in Alabama, the ones who have supported me through the years, I think they understand that it was a business decision it wasn't anything at them that's for certain, but I'm excited about being in the Tennessee family, representing Tennessee, and getting Tennessee football where it needs to be. In the end, I think the people of Alabama appreciate the job that I did there and the guys that I brought to that school and the way I coached and represented their school. I'm happy to be at Tennessee representing Tennessee.
7. When you're not coaching football, what do you like to do?
I spend time with my daughters and watch them grow up.
8. Are you're daughters ready for the move?
They're really excited. They were here a couple weeks ago to visit some schools and they were excited about the places to go because we've been in a smaller town, so we're all looking forward to being in Knoxville.
