The newly constructed north end seating area will become the primary
"student-only" seating area, including the Block I. Plans include an
exclusive entrance for students, brand new restrooms and concession
stands. The Marching Illini Band seating area will also move to the
lower level of the new north end construction. The video and
scoreboard will be moved from the north end to the south end of the
stadium.
"This new, exclusive, student seating area will greatly enhance
student spirit and our game day atmosphere at Memorial Stadium," said
UI Director of Ticket Services Jason Heggemeyer. "By seating our
students in the north end zone, the entire stadium will be able to
feed off the enthusiasm that our students bring to each and every
game."
Illini football coach Ron Zook understands the importance of student
support at the games.
"I am excited about the new plans for Memorial Stadium," Zook said.
"This special section gives our students a chance to strongly impact
the atmosphere at Memorial Stadium. Our students give our players
such a boost of energy on Saturdays and their support and enthusiasm
will play a large part in the building of this program and making
Memorial Stadium a difficult place for our opponents to play."
DIA officials met with leaders of several student groups, including
the student representative on the Board of Trustees, the Athletic
Board of Control, Illini Pride, Panhellenic Council and the
Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, regarding the move and received
some very favorable feedback.
"What most excites me about the new student section is that it will
give Illinois students the opportunity to have their spirit for
football become something that is recognized and known throughout
college football," said Panhellenic President Kimberly Verest.
"As a student, I can't help but be excited about the proposed changes
at Memorial Stadium," said BOT student representative Nick Klitzing.
"The creation of a new student section on the north end of the
stadium will create an environment that Illinois athletes and fans
will love but one which opposing teams will fear. The changes in
Memorial Stadium typify the bright future of Illinois football. I am
excited to begin a new era."
"The thing that most excites me about the new student section at
Memorial Stadium is the sense of unity that it will potentially
provide for U of I students," said Erin McKeague, vice president of
Illini Pride. "This new setup presents a great opportunity to really
bring students together, and I feel that the atmosphere will also
foster a huge amount of school spirit and bring a lot of excitement
to the experience of an Illini football game."
The UI Athletics Ticket Office will personally contact season ticket
holders whose seat locations will be changed because of construction
with additional information in the coming weeks.