Illinois Athletics Hall of Fame FAQ
Nomination Form
Why the timing?
The University of Illinois has sponsored a collegiate athletics program since 1890, with the baseball team starting even earlier than that. Some of the most prominent names in the history of sport have competed on our fields and courts. It is time to recognize these legendary figures.
Who will be on the selection committee?
To ensure a fair process completed with utmost integrity, the committee’s membership will not be announced. The committee will represent many different stakeholders who have broad appreciation for the rich and diverse tradition of Illinois Athletics. The group will have a tough task: choosing the best of the best from our remarkable history. It will be a very difficult job considering the number of high caliber student-athletes who have competed for Illinois over the past 125 years.
Where will the HOF be housed?
At present, this is not a Hall of Fame meant to house memorabilia, but to recognize the greatest names in Fighting Illini athletics history. As we move forward with our master facility plans, we will identify the best location and manner in which to celebrate our Hall of Fame.
Can fans nominate candidates?
The criteria we used to identify a list of automatically qualified candidates is extremely comprehensive. However, public nominations will be accepted with supporting information through an online form at FightingIllini.com.
Are there details on the events you plan to hold?
We will be announcing details on the formal event in Chicago and induction ceremony in Champaign at a later date.
Will every sport be represented?
Over time, yes, but not necessarily at the beginning. The best of the best, regardless of sport, will be chosen for early classes inducted into the Hall of Fame. Over time, we expect our classes to be inclusive of all sports that have been sponsored by the UI. Some sports have been competing for more than 100 years, while some have been competing for far less time, meaning some sports will have significantly more candidates. Female student-athletes who were recognized for their competition in club sports prior to the passage of Title IX and inclusion in varsity sports will also be considered.
How big will the inaugural class be?
We have not predetermined the number of people who will be selected for the inaugural Hall of Fame class.
Why hasn’t Illinois had a HOF in the past?
The concept of an Athletics Hall of Fame has been discussed for decades but never acted upon. We feel that the current time works very well as this will be in conjunction with the University’s sesquicentennial celebration.
Why announce Dick Butkus now? Why only him?
Dick Butkus is among the best football players of all time. Many consider him the greatest linebacker and defensive player in the game’s history. He is a member of both the Pro Football and College Football Halls of Fame. He was named to the NFL’s All-Time Team in 2000 and is one of only two players in Illinois football history with his number retired. He is an obvious choice for inclusion in the inaugural class of the Fighting Illini Athletics Hall of Fame. Dick Butkus is arguably the most well-known living Illini athlete and, as one of our true living legends, his presence allows us to help celebrate, in a more personal way, today’s announcement. The committee has the responsibility and time to work through the comprehensive and difficult process of naming the remainder of the inaugural class in the coming months.
How often will a class be inducted?
We expect to name a Hall of Fame class on an annual basis.
