Sept. 10, 2008
NORMAL, Ill. -
Large crowds and an entertaining tailgating experience have become staples around the Illinois State Athletics Department during football season the past three years. On Sept. 20, prior to ISU's home opener against in-state rival Eastern Illinois, that trend will continue, with the fourth annual CommUniversity tailgating event, as well as a performance by "Hairbangers Ball" and a halftime fireworks show.
CommUniversity will be presented in conjunction with the McLean County Chamber of Commerce, with approximately 60 tents reserved in the Redbird Tent Zone, north of the Kaufman Football Building and in the Ropp parking lot. Local businesses occupying tents have personally invited guests to tailgate, and enjoy the game-day atmosphere prior to the Redbirds' home football opener against the Panthers.
In the first year of CommUniversity (2005), just eight tents were a part of the festivities. The event increased to nearly 60 tents last season, when the Redbirds saw a crowd of 12,167 pour through the turnstiles for the season opener.
"Hairbangers Ball," a modern-day 80s rock band, will perform just outside of Hancock Stadium, in the southeast end of the east lot, beginning at approximately 4 p.m. The firework display will be visible in the north end of the stadium at halftime.
"We are all very excited about the start of the home football season, and the atmosphere that it brings to campus," said ISU Assistant Athletics Director for Marketing and Promotions Brad Ledford. "The success of CommUniversity has grown in each of the past three years, and expect next Saturday (Sept. 20) to take another step in that direction. It's a great way to get our fans involved in what should be another exciting year for Redbird Athletics."
The Sept. 20 kickoff against EIU is set for 6:30 p.m., and is sponsored by the Bank of Illinois. The Redbirds travel to Murray, Ky., this Saturday (Sept. 13) to take on host Murray State.
