Illinois Athletics Introduces New Gameday Assistance Texting Line and AI-Powered “Champ” Digital Assistant
September 29, 2026 | General
News
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Illinois Athletics has partnered with Relayed in enhancing the Fighting Illini gameday experience with the introduction of two new digital fan-assistance tools designed to make it easier for fans to get answers, report concerns and receive support throughout their time at Illinois Athletics events.
Fighting Illini fans can now access a new gameday assistance texting line, providing a direct connection to Illinois Athletics staff while attending events. Those in attendance can text questions or report gameday needs - including maintenance concerns, spills, facility issues, safety concerns and other requests - and messages will be routed to the appropriate Illinois Athletics personnel for assistance.
In addition, Illinois Athletics has introduced an AI-powered digital assistant, "Champ", available through both the Illinois Athletics website and the Fighting Illini app, giving fans immediate access to answers for common gameday questions.
The AI assistant can help fans find information related to tickets, parking, venue policies, accessibility, concessions, directions, schedules and more. Champ is designed to provide quick, convenient assistance before and during Illinois Athletics events, helping fans spend less time searching for information and more time enjoying the experience.
During events, the digital assistant can also help fans identify how to report issues and when a question or concern requires human assistance, Champ routes the request to the appropriate Illinois Athletics staff member.
The new tools are part of Illinois Athletics' continued effort to modernize the fan experience and provide supporters with convenient, customer-focused resources throughout their gameday journey.
The gameday assistance texting line will be promoted throughout Illinois Athletics venues and gameday communications. Fans can text (217) 703-4465 for assistance during events.
The AI-powered chatbot is available on fightingillini.com or through the "Ask Champ" menu icon and within the Fighting Illini app. Fans can access Champ to ask questions and receive information directly from their mobile device or computer.
The new fan-assistance tools complement Illinois Athletics' existing customer service resources and represent another step in creating a more connected, responsive and fan-focused experience at Fighting Illini events.
