30 Facts About Illinois State Football

Illinois State Football: A Rich History

Illinois State Football has a storied past filled with memorable moments, legendary players, and significant achievements. Here are some fascinating facts about this remarkable program.

1. Founded in 1887
   Illinois State Football began in 1887, making it one of the oldest college football programs in the United States.

2. First Game Victory
   The team won its first-ever game against Illinois Wesleyan with a score of 12-6.

3. Nickname: Redbirds
   The team is known as the Redbirds, a name inspired by the state bird of Illinois, the Northern Cardinal.

4. Home Stadium: Hancock Stadium
   Hancock Stadium, the home of the Redbirds, opened in 1963 and has a seating capacity of 13,391.

5. First Conference Championship
   The Redbirds won their first conference championship in 1932.

Legendary Coaches and Players

Illinois State Football has been shaped by numerous influential coaches and players who have left an indelible mark on the program.

6. Coach Howard Hancock
   Howard Hancock, for whom the stadium is named, coached the team from 1931 to 1944 and is considered a pivotal figure in the program's history.

7. Gordie Gillespie
   Gordie Gillespie, another legendary coach, led the team from 1964 to 1975 and is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame.

8. Laurent Robinson
   Laurent Robinson, a standout wide receiver, went on to play in the NFL for teams like the Atlanta Falcons and Dallas Cowboys.

9. Boomer Grigsby
   Boomer Grigsby, a linebacker, set multiple records at Illinois State and was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2005.

10. James Robinson
    James Robinson, a recent star running back, currently plays for the Jacksonville Jaguars in the NFL.

Memorable Seasons and Games

Certain seasons and games stand out in the annals of Illinois State Football, showcasing the team's resilience and talent.

11. 1999 Season
    The 1999 season was historic as the Redbirds reached the semifinals of the FCS playoffs for the first time.

12. 2014 FCS Championship Game
    In 2014, the Redbirds made it to the FCS Championship Game but narrowly lost to North Dakota State.

13. Record-Breaking 2015 Season
    The 2015 season saw the Redbirds tie their record for most wins in a season with 10 victories.

14. First Playoff Appearance
    The team made its first playoff appearance in 1983.

15. Historic Rivalry with Eastern Illinois
    The rivalry with Eastern Illinois, known as the Mid-America Classic, is one of the oldest in college football, dating back to 1901.

Academic and Athletic Excellence

Illinois State Football prides itself on not only athletic success but also academic achievements.

16. High Graduation Rate
    The team boasts one of the highest graduation rates among FCS programs.

17. Academic All-Americans
    Several players have been named Academic All-Americans, highlighting their dedication to both sports and studies.

18. Community Service
    The team is actively involved in community service, participating in various local initiatives and charity events.

19. Scholarship Opportunities
    Illinois State offers numerous scholarships to its football players, ensuring they have the resources needed to succeed academically.

20. Strong Support System
    The university provides a robust support system for student-athletes, including tutoring and academic advising.

Modern Era and Future Prospects

The modern era of Illinois State Football continues to build on its rich legacy, with exciting prospects for the future.

21. Coach Brock Spack
    Brock Spack, the current head coach, has led the team since 2009 and has brought renewed success to the program.

22. State-of-the-Art Facilities
    Recent upgrades to training facilities and locker rooms ensure that players have access to top-notch resources.

23. Recruitment Success
    The team has seen significant success in recruiting top talent from across the country.

24. Strong Fan Base
    The Redbirds enjoy a passionate and loyal fan base that supports the team through thick and thin.

25. Social Media Presence
    The team has a strong social media presence, engaging with fans and keeping them updated on the latest news and events.

Fun and Quirky Facts

Beyond the stats and records, Illinois State Football has some fun and quirky aspects that add to its charm.

26. Redbird Mascot: Reggie
    Reggie Redbird, the team’s mascot, is a beloved figure at games and events.

27. Unique Traditions
    One unique tradition involves players touching a statue of a redbird for good luck before each home game.

28. Marching Band
    The Big Red Marching Machine, the university's marching band, adds to the electric atmosphere at games.

29. Tailgating Culture
    Tailgating before games is a cherished tradition, with fans gathering to celebrate and show their support.

30. Alumni Network
    The team boasts a strong alumni network, with former players often returning to support and mentor current athletes.

The Final Whistle

Illinois State Football has a rich history full of memorable moments and remarkable achievements. From their early beginnings to their modern-day triumphs, the Redbirds have consistently shown grit and determination on the field. With dedicated players, passionate fans, and a strong coaching staff, the team continues to build on its legacy.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or just learning about the team, these facts highlight why Illinois State Football holds a special place in the hearts of many. The Redbirds' journey is a testament to hard work, team spirit, and unwavering support from their community.

Keep an eye on Illinois State Football as they strive for new heights and create more unforgettable moments. The future looks bright for this storied program, and there's no doubt they'll continue to make their mark in the world of college football.