Sept. 6, 2007
NORMAL, Ill. -
When the Illinois State football team rolls into opposing communities in 2007 there won't be any question that it's the Redbirds, thanks to a new partnership between ISU Athletics and Brandt Truck Line, Inc., of Bloomington, Ill.
The Illinois State football program will utilize a 48-foot semi-trailer truck for all road games this season. The truck and trailer, donated by Brandt Truck Line, will transport gear and equipment for players and coaches, as well as equipment for the athletic training staff.
"This is more visual evidence of the support for Redbird football from our private citizens and corporate entities," head coach Denver Johnson said. "To have a rolling billboard like this traveling the highways and byways of the Midwest and all over the country, can only help us `spread the red.' I'm very appreciative of this effort."
In previous seasons, the Redbird football equipment staff used a 26-foot truck for each road game. Now, the program will have the same truck on a week-to-week basis. The semi-trailer features "Illinois State Redbird football" on each side centered around a Nike swoosh. The back of the trailer displays a Redbird football helmet with GoRedbirds.com across the bottom. Brandt will also provide a driver for the truck on each trip at no cost to the university or football program.
"By nearly doubling the space, it is going to allow us to pack things a little easier," said Director of Equipment Operations Jay Bailey. "Much like the Nike deal, this is something that solidifies the image of our program. We are looking forward to working with Brandt Truck Line and appreciate their support for Redbird football."
Brandt Truck Line specializes in the LTL (less-than truckload) market. Service areas for this family-owned and operated business include the entire states of Illinois and Indiana; and parts of Wisconsin, Missouri, Iowa and Kentucky. The company is built on a tradition of hard work, honesty, integrity, caring and flexibility.
"We are home-based in Bloomington-Normal and have been in business for 84 years," said Steve Kubsch, president and CEO of Brandt Truck Line, Inc. "We have never done anything like this, but Illinois State Athletics is gaining momentum and we just wanted to be part of it."
The Redbird trailer will make its first trip next weekend, when Illinois State travels to Eastern Illinois Sept. 15. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m.
