KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - Disappointing result for many Vols fans, but one was just happy to be in Neyland for the game.

Tanner Hunter lives in Alabama, but his dad grew up in Tennessee and he and his family are huge UT fans.

The UT-Alabama game was the first time had ever went to a game in Knoxville.

It was a great day for the 18 year-old, who has had a difficult year. Tanner was paralyzed while wrestling in December, and is still wheelchair-bound. He's come a long way in his recovery, and he had a big smile on his face watching his beloved Volunteers.

"It feels really good just to finally be around people that like Tennessee. You catch a lot of grief in Alabama," said Hunter.

Hunter was excited early in the game when big orange was driving for a field goal in the first quarter. Even though the Vols went on to lose the game, his family was thrilled just to be in the stadium.

"We've been so blessed over the past year with people's graciousness and help to us. We are very excited about this trip and we've had a wonderful time, thank you," said his mom, Christy Hunter.

The tickets were donated anonymously to the Hunter family.