Oct. 22, 2008

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. - The Illinois soccer team returns to the Illinois Soccer and Track Stadium to host a pair of crucial Big Ten matchups this weekend and is inviting Illini fans to create a unique atmosphere as the Orange and Blue look to continue their 13-game home winning streak. Illinois is encouraging an "Orange Out" as fans overload the stadium dressed in orange on Friday at 7 p.m. against Penn State, with the first 500 fans receiving thundersticks and first 100 fans in orange to receive a free t-shirt.

"We knew at the start of the season that this home stand would be an important part of the season for us and I am confident that the loyal Illini community and the Illinois Soccer community are ready to help us make the most of being here in Champaign," head coach Janet Rayfield said. "Come and cheer on a great Illinois soccer team who feeds off the energy and excitement that their home fans bring to the game. We have a chance to lead the Big Ten in home attendance! I am counting on the students and the Champaign community to make that happen."

On Sunday, Illini fans are encouraged to pull out their pink and join as the soccer team will wear pink warmup shirts to support National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Fans who wear pink are invited to make a donation to Coaches vs. Cancer to receive free admission to the game at 1 p.m. against Ohio State, and the first 200 fans in pink will receive a Kicks Against Breast Cancer pin. Sunday is also Dog Day for the Illini, as fans with a dog also will receive free admission. All dogs must be kept on a leash.