KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — After seven years of service and hundreds of searches across the University of Tennessee’s campus, the University of Tennessee Police Department surprised explosives detection K-9 Athena with a special tennis ball sendoff on Thursday.
The department shared a video of the retirement celebration for nine-year-old Athena, who has performed explosive detection searches across campus, including at high-profile locations like Neyland Stadium and Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center.
The video shows Athena performing one final search, surrounded by members of the police department. After the K-9 alerted by a duffle-style bag, the members all tossed in tennis balls as a reward for a job, and career, well done.
(University of Tennessee Police) 
(University of Tennessee Police) 
(University of Tennessee Police) 
(University of Tennessee Police) 
(University of Tennessee Police) 
(University of Tennessee Police) 
(University of Tennessee Police) 
(University of Tennessee Police) 
(University of Tennessee Police) 
(University of Tennessee Police) 
(University of Tennessee Police)
UT Police wrote that they will miss her, but they were wishing her a a happy and joyful retirement.
“After seven years of loyal service, Athena is now retiring in 2025. Her contributions leave an outstanding legacy, and she will always be remembered as a devoted and courageous working dog,” UTPD wrote.
At just two years old, Athena was partnered with Sgt. John Platt. Originally born in Poland, Athena was brought to the U.S. by Iron Heart High Performance Working Dogs in Shawnee, Kansas.
In her years of service, Athena’s dedication and “keen instincts” have been instrumental to maintain safety and security in countless events and daily operations, UT Police wrote.
As of Thursday, her collar has been switched from her badge to a “Retired K-9” collar. Now, she will enjoy her retirement alongside Platt and his family.