For more than 95 years, the Illinois student cheering section known as the Block "I" has remained an innovative place of fun and excitement for young Illini Football fans. Beginning in 1910, Block "I" was formed as a pep club for Illinois students at home games, providing entertainment and student interaction during Illinois athletic events

In 1924, Block "I" took residence in the east stands of Memorial Stadium and two years later in 1926, became a visual staple among Memorial Stadium tradition with the performance of card stunts during the games by its members. In 2007, the Block "I", along with the rest of the students, set the tone for the energy in Memorial Stadium from the brand-new North End Zone structure. When the historic stadium began renovations, the section was designed with the Block "I" in mind, to create the best exposure for the loyal fans. The Block "I" is the first group the team sees when it emerges from the locker room. From the 1950s to the '70s, a second Block "I" performed in the west balcony of the stadium, mirroring the card stunts performed in the east stands.

Beginning in 2004, Block "I" merged with Illini Pride, the official student support group of all Illinois' 19 Varsity sports. Known simply as Illini Pride, this spirit group boasts the largest student organization membership at Illinois with numbers topping 2,700 in 2006. The fusion of Block "I" into Illini Pride works to enhance the student cheering section atmosphere while introducing the tradition and pride of Fighting Illini athletics to a new class of University of Illinois students.

Block "I" is comprised of students who value old Illini traditions while embracing new ones. They can still be found trampling to the beat of the Marching Illini's "William Tell Overture," while christening new traditions like the Thursday evening "Practice Rouser," cheering on the Illini after practice in enthusiastic anticipation of bringing home a win on Saturday.

Today, the visual presence of Block "I" is evident not only through the use of over 8,000 cards during the various stunts performed at halftime, but also from its 1,800 student members brightly clad in Illini Orange. With the 2008 season marking its 98th year in existence, Block "I" still remains the premier seating choice among students and a true example of loyalty, tradition and pride here at Illinois.

(updated 9/08)