CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Seventy-four former University of Illinois football student-athletes combined to donate more than $7.5 million in support of the Henry Dale and Betty Smith Football Center. The 107,650 square foot, $79.2 million facility opened Aug. 18, featuring expanded strength and conditioning and sports medicine space, coaches' offices, position meeting rooms, player development areas, locker rooms, and other areas for recruiting and prospect hosting.
"Opening the Smith Center has been the culmination of so many people coming together to support our plan for the future success of Illinois Football," Director of Athletics Josh Whitman said. "The building represents many different things to many different people. As a former player, it was important to me that the building honor our rich Fighting Illini heritage and celebrate all the men who have worn the orange helmet. It has been humbling and gratifying to see so many former players step forward to support our program — our Illini brothers now and in the future. It is a testament to the impact Illinois has had on our lives. Few universities have seen such active engagement from former players with an interest in paving the way for future generations, and it makes me even prouder to be part of this Illini Family."
Former team captain and offensive MVP Stu Levenick and his wife, Nancy, committed a $5 million leadership gift in February to kickstart momentum toward the philanthropic goal for the facility. Kai and Diane Anderson, Bob and Diane Noelke, Bill and Shari Castonzo, Corey Liuget, and Josh and Hope Whitman were among the former Fighting Illini that gave special gifts to the many amenities in the building.
"Our former players built the foundation for this program during their time on campus and it has been humbling to see them step-up and support the current and future generations of Illini Football student-athletes," said Varsity "I" Director Lee Zerrusen. "As shown by their contributions to the Smith Football Center project, this group has an immense passion for their program. We are extremely proud that their names will be forever tied this game-changing facility."
All former football student-athletes that donated to the project will be recognized inside the Smith Football Center on an alumni giving wall.
Levenick Auditorium
Liguet Players' Lounge
Castonzo Nutrition Center
