With the goal of taking game-day ideas from fans and turning them into reality, the first Fighting Illini Fan Council meeting took place in Champaign on Feb. 18. Out of the 24 selected council members, 22 were in attendance and all voiced their opinions and joined in on the discussion about the future of Fighting Illini Athletics.

The meeting opened up with introductions from the council members along with telling their favorite Illinois memories. Many related with one another and could also remember back to that particular moment whether it was the last Braggin' Rights game or to Nick Anderson's buzzer-beater against Indiana in 1989.

For the first meeting, the Fan Council heard a brief overview of the recent attendance patterns at football, volleyball, and men's and women's basketball; the future pricing models at Memorial Stadium and State Farm Center; and what FIGHTINGILLINI.com will look like come July. After the quick overview, discussions ensued about football tailgating, music played at games, the effect of the new ticket prices, and what changes will be made at State Farm Center during renovations. These discussions lasted more than an hour and were filled with questions from the council and feedback from staff members.

"Engaging with our fans, the people who bleed Orange and Blue, is an incredible experience, and our first Fan Council meeting was a big success," said Senior Associate Director of Athletics Mike Waddell. "Going around the room and learning why people are Fighting Illini fans and hearing their opinions on how various aspects of our game day operations should run was very impactful for our staff. We also had a chance to share information face-to-face with the group, and were able to provide facts and background to questions that they had for our DIA leadership. As we move forward with these meetings with the Fan Councils in Central Illinois and in Chicago we will only grow stronger as #ILLINI."

Before the Fan Council was dismissed for the evening, they were issued assignments to complete before the next meeting, including a review of digital media and to spread the word about how fans can get involved. Additionally, past members of Orange Krush who are on the council will be included in discussions about the future improvements of the student spirit group.

Next on the agenda for the Fighting Illini Fan Council is to hold a meeting with the Chicago-based members in early March. The agenda for this meeting will be similar to the Champaign meeting and include additional topics specific to the Chicagoland market.

For any questions about the Fighting Illini Fan Council please contact Sabrina Thiel, Assistant Director of Marketing, via email - sthiel@illinois.edu.