Dear Fighting Illini Students,

On behalf of the entire Division of Intercollegiate Athletics at the University of Illinois, I would like to welcome you to campus for the beginning of another great school year! I hope you are getting settled on campus and are excited for the upcoming school year.

You are a member of the Illinois Family and this is such a terrific campus in so many ways. Illinois is a national leader in academics, research, community engagement, and athletics. The key element in each of these areas is our bright and talented student body. From my perspective, I have the pleasure of witnessing the incredible student support our athletic teams receive from their classmates. No matter the sport or event, I see that Illinois students are truly diehard Fighting Illini Fans! Our student-athletes, coaches, and staff are certainly grateful for enthusiastic and devoted fans. You provide a great home team advantage and we sincerely appreciate the energetic and passionate support!

As this new academic year begins, I hope to see you at our games and events. A vibrant and engaged student body is critical to a university’s success, both in the classroom and on the fields of competition. The thrill of a Big Ten athletic environment is something you should promise yourself to experience during your time on campus. I wish you a happy, successful, and productive 2015-2016.

Go Illini!

Mike Thomas

Director of Athletics