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illie Returns to University of Illinois Campus for 95th Homecoming...

In the wake of perhaps the darkest hours of recent Illini football history, an image of hope may have emerged. Not since the days of the 'galloping ghost' has a legendary figure so captured the curiosity and imagination of the Illini nation.



On Saturday night, the Illini football squad was easily disposed of by the 12th ranked Penn-State Nittany Lions before a homecoming crowd at Memorial Stadium in Champaign on a perfect fall evening for football. Yet, in the midst of this dismal performance by the over-matched Illini team, a figure emerged that may bring hope to the fans of the Illini nation. While it is unknown whether this legendary figure will help to resurrect the Illini Football Program, it appears that 'illie' is here to stay.



Like most legendary figures, this stranger has unknown origins. 'illie' was first spotted during Illini basketball season over the last few years making cameo appearances at memorable games along the way to a nearly undefeated regular season and trip to the final-four in 2005.



Most recently, 'illie' has been spotted on occasion at Illini football games and around the campus of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. One report had him in one of the local coffee houses, while another student claims to have seen him in the Illini Union building. Still another University student mentioned that she saw 'illie' on the quad late one evening, although she could not provide details concerning exactly where this sighting was or when it occurred. Two more female University students reported seeing him in their sorority house, although both were reluctant to provide the details surrounding the incident.



With basketball season quickly approaching, there is little doubt that 'illie' will be spotted on campus once again. Based on the descriptions provided by eyewitnesses, there is also little doubt that he 'bleeds orange and blue,' and it is very likely that he will somehow find a way to make appearances in the 'orange-crush' student section of sold-out Assembly Hall this season.



Some Illini fans seem to believe that 'illie' was the glue that held the team together during Bruce Weber's first year as head coach, while others claim that he may have been the catalyst that propelled the Illini basketball team to the national finals last season. While it is debatable whether either of these claims is true, it appears to be further evidence of his growing legend around campus.



So, the questions still remain. Where did 'illie' come from Who is he How did he get here What exactly does he look like For more information about 'illie', further details and a composite image can be found at the following address: www.illie-gear.com.    

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