CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Illinois head football coach Bret Bielema and his family have launched a new initiative to give back to those who serve and protect. In recognition of Military Appreciation Day on November 15 vs. Maryland, Coach Bielema has pledged to personally match tickets purchased by Fighting Illini fans to bring veterans, active-duty military, and their families to Memorial Stadium.
The initiative is aimed at filling the stands with heroes from across the state and beyond for the Fighting Illini’s annual Military Appreciation Game. The matched tickets will be donated directly to service members and organizations that support them.
“Our family believes deeply in honoring those who sacrifice so much for our freedom and safety,” said Bielema. “We are grateful for the opportunity to say thank you and give them the chance to enjoy a day of celebration, recognition, and Illini Football.”
Fans are invited to participate by purchasing specially designated $20 tickets through the campaign. For each ticket purchased, Coach Bielema will match it — doubling the impact and the number of honored guests who will get to experience game day at Memorial Stadium.
Additional details, including how fans can contribute and how organizations can request donated tickets, are available here.
Tickets for the Military Appreciation initiative will be distributed by Vet Tix. Those interested in obtaining tickets through the program can register by visiting www.vettix.org and creating an account.
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