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Tennessee football has a new standout in its ranks. Volunteers QB Joey Aguilar entered the season with plenty of fanfare. Some of that was related to his success at Appalachian State -- Aguilar captured Sun Belt Newcomer of the Year and second-team All-Sun Belt honors after tallying 3,757 yards and 33 touchdowns in 2023.
Aguilar arrived in unusual circumstances—not via a traditional transfer, but through a transfer trade. He initially committed to UCLA before swapping spots with Nico Iamaleava in an unprecedented quarterback transaction.
His journey to Knoxville has naturally drawn the attention of college football fans, and as his profile has risen, so too has the visibility of his family, including his mother, Lydia.
Here’s what you need to know.
MORE: Who is Joey Aguilar?
Who is Joey Aguilar's mom?
Aguilar’s mother, Lydia Aguilar, is a California native of Puerto Rican descent who has played a significant role in her son’s career. She worked as an emergency room secretary, pulling 12-hour shifts throughout Aguilar’s childhood, per Essentially Sports.
MORE: Tennessee QB Joey Aguilar's dad on portal trade
Lydia Aguilar has routinely offered support for her son throughout his collegiate career. She was a fixture at his games during his time at Appalachian State.
I will forever treasure these moments !! #hegetsthecurlsfromme #appstatefootball #4 pic.twitter.com/JboIi0crp7
— LydiaAguilar220 (@Lydia220Aguilar) November 5, 2023The past two years have been an incredible journey. We never even knew Boone existed, but the moment we discovered it, we fell in love.
Although the season has ended for Joey, his story is far from over. We are beyond grateful for the unwavering love and support from the… pic.twitter.com/qcQBqmJpDy
Aguilar's transfer to Tennessee has done little to quell Lydia's passion for her son's on-field exploits. She grew emotional watching Joey stride out onto the field at ahead of the Volunteers' clash with No. 6 Georgia on Sept. 13.
MORE: Tennessee QB Joey Aguilar's path from Diablo Valley to Tennessee
Beautiful moment of Joey Aguilar's mom watching her son run through the T for the first time as a #Vol. @Lydia220Aguilar pic.twitter.com/ccUQQKmULz
— Emilie Rae Cochrane (@EmCochranetv) September 6, 2025Suffice to say, as long as Aguilar's performances continue to pop, college football audiences will be made aware of Lydia, too.
MORE: Iamaleava money decision called an 'all-time disaster' as Vols' Joey Aguilar wins trade
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