Illinois Announces Athletics Hall of Fame
The Division of Intercollegiate Athletics announced the formation of the University of Illinois Athletics Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame will recognize and honor the greatest student-athletes, coaches and administrators in the illustrious history of Fighting Illini Athletics, which stretches more than 120 years.
“The University of Illinois has an incredible and storied history in athletics,” says Josh Whitman, director of UI Athletics. “Legendary names in sports history are found throughout the Illini record books, and we are excited to honor them in our new Hall of Fame. Since the athletic program’s inception in 1890, some of the world’s greatest athletes have competed in the Orange and Blue. Ultimately, as we begin to populate the Hall of Fame, our collection of recognized greats will compare favorably with that of any institution in the nation.”
All-time Fighting Illini icon Dick Butkus, ’65 AHS, who many consider the greatest linebacker and defensive player in the history of football, will be a member of the Hall of Fame’s inaugural class.
