West Central Reporter

The Western Illinois University Alumni Association, in partnership with WIU Athletics, will host pregame tailgate events for the Fighting Leathernecks' first two football games of the 2025 season. The team is scheduled to face the University of Illinois on Friday, August 29, and Northwestern University on Friday, September 5.

Carrie Van Vleet, Associate Alumni Director, stated, "We are excited to host two great tailgates with our partners in WIU Athletics as we kickoff our 2025 football season. We look forward to seeing hundreds of alumni and friends come out to support Fighting Leathernecks!''

The first tailgate event will take place in Champaign from 4-6 p.m. on August 29 at a tent east of the State Farm Center and south of Memorial Stadium. Kickoff for the game is set for 6:30 p.m. Ticket options include a package with tailgate access, food, cash bar, and a game ticket for $55; tailgate access with food and cash bar only (no game ticket) for $30; or just a game ticket for $25. Seating is available in section 109.

The second event will be held in Evanston at Double Clutch Brewing Co. from 3-6 p.m. on September 5. The game against Northwestern will also begin at 6:30 p.m. Packages are priced at $109 for tailgate access including food, cash bar, and a game ticket; $30 for just the tailgate with food and cash bar; or $79 for a game ticket only. Seats are located in the north end zone.

WIU Athletic Director Paul Bubb commented on the upcoming events: "I am excited for the football season to get here and so appreciative of the Alumni Association for arranging these tailgate and pregame gatherings for the Illinois and Northwestern game. I am anxious to join in the festivities and meet so many of our loyal Leatherneck alumni and friends."

Registration details can be found at wiu.com/alumni or by contacting the WIU Alumni Association by email or phone.