The Sentinel: Illinois Athletics

Illinois Falls to Rutgers, Foley delivers 10th goal of the season

PISCATAWAY, N.J. - Despite a resilient second-half defensive effort, Illinois soccer fell 2-1 to No. 20 Rutgers on Sunday afternoon at Yurcak Field. The Illini, now 7-8-2 overall and 3-6-1 in Big Ten play, were unable to overcome a first-half deficit despite controlling much of the offensive action after the break.

Rutgers (10-3-3, 6-2-2 Big Ten) opened the scoring in the 23rd minute when Riley Tiernan capitalized on an Illinois turnover in their defensive third, netting her fourth goal of the season. Just two minutes later, the Illini responded with a goal from Sarah Foley, leveling the game at 1-1. Foley’s strike marked her 10th goal of the season, solidifying her status as the team’s top scorer.

However, the Scarlet Knights reclaimed the lead at the 32-minute mark when Shaela Bradley scored off an assist from Tiernan. That would prove to be the game-winning goal, as neither team could find the back of the net in the second half.

Illinois applied pressure throughout the contest, outshooting Rutgers 15-10 and earning six corner kicks, five of which came in the second half. The Illini defense tightened after the break, holding the Scarlet Knights to just three shots, only one of which was on target. However, Rutgers’ defense, led by goalkeeper Olivia Bodmer’s five saves, held firm to protect their lead.

Illini goalkeeper Izzy Lee recorded four saves in the first half, helping to keep her team within striking distance. The Illinois attack kept pushing for an equalizer, but a lack of finishing touch in the final third left the Illini without a second goal.

Foley, a junior forward from Belleville, Ill., continues to be a standout for the Illini. In addition to her 10th goal of the season, she has been a key offensive contributor throughout the year. A 5-foot-5 Academic All-Big Ten selection, Foley started 15 consecutive matches last season and has been a vital part of Illinois’ attack this year.

The Illini return to action on October 27 for their 2024 season finale, hosting Northwestern at Demirjian Park. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. CT.

Keywords: Illinois soccer vs Rutgers, Sarah Foley goal, Illinois Big Ten soccer, Illinois soccer

No. 22 Illinois tops No. 24 Michigan, 21-7

CHAMPAIGN – In a game that celebrated the 100th anniversary of Memorial Stadium, No. 22 Illinois delivered a memorable 21-7 victory over No. 24 Michigan on Saturday afternoon. In front of a sell-out crowd, the 77th in program history, the Fighting Illini marked their third win over a ranked opponent this season, solidifying their place among the top teams in the Big Ten thanks to a dominant defensive effort, highlighted by multiple forced turnovers and key plays frustrating the visiting Wolverines.

Illinois head coach Brett Bielema said to beat a team like Michigan takes preparation. Not just a few days before the game but every opportunity during the year.

"You learn to beat Michigan 365 days a year," he said. "You do the things you do every day to take advantage of moments like this and it was really really rewarding."

The matchup, played one day after the 100th anniversary of Red Grange's legendary six-touchdown performance against Michigan in the stadium's Dedication Game, saw Illinois (6-1, 3-1 Big Ten) showcase its defensive strength.

The Illini forced three turnovers, with linebacker Gabe Jacas leading the way, recording a game-high 13 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and a forced fumble. Dylan Rosiek added a career-best 12 tackles, while Matthew Bailey contributed 11 tackles, an interception, and a forced fumble.

"Our first key to victory was toplay fast and physcial for four quarters," Bielema explained. "I thought we did that. I love the way our guys compete and find a way to win."

Early Offensive Strikes and Defensive Stops

Illinois wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, with Aidan Laughery's 29-yard rush highlighting an opening drive that culminated in a 47-yard field goal by David Olano. It was the sixth consecutive game in which the Illini scored on their opening possession, setting the stage for a strong start.

"I thought our defense played outstanding," he Bielema said. "I think last week to have that moment and to learn from it really big moment for Aaron and his staff. Defensively it was really pretty cool."

"I think it was the lowest number of points Michigan has put up in 10 years," he added.

The Illini defense came up big on Michigan's first two possessions, forcing punts both times. The momentum shifted fully in Illinois’ favor early in the second quarter when Jacas forced his third fumble of the season. Malachi Hood recovered the loose ball, marking the first recovery of his career and setting up another Olano field goal, this time from 32 yards, to extend the lead to 6-0.

On Michigan’s next possession, Illinois' defense struck again, with Bailey forcing a fumble that was scooped up by Miles Scott. The Illini capitalized quickly, marching 51 yards down the field before Luke Altmyer connected with tight end Tanner Arkin for a 2-yard touchdown pass, pushing the Illinois lead to 13-0.

Michigan Response and Illinois Resilience

Michigan (5-2, 2-2 Big Ten) managed to answer before halftime, cutting the deficit to 13-7 on a late second-quarter touchdown. But Illinois’ defense had already made its mark, forcing two critical turnovers in the first half and preventing the Wolverines from finding any offensive rhythm.

The Illini’s defense continued its dominance in the second half. After forcing a three-and-out on Michigan's opening possession of the third quarter, Illinois executed a perfectly timed fake punt, with Arkin breaking free for a 36-yard gain that set the Illini up deep in Wolverine territory. Four plays later, Altmyer found the end zone on a 1-yard quarterback sneak. A two-point conversion pass from backup quarterback Donovan Leary to Zakhari Franklin extended Illinois' lead to 21-7 midway through the third quarter.

Illini Defense Seals the Victory

Illinois' defense refused to let Michigan back into the game. When the Wolverines threatened to score late in the third quarter, the Illini's special teams stepped up, with Ezekiel Holmes blocking a field goal attempt—Illinois' first blocked kick of the season.

Matthew Bailey then intercepted a Michigan pass in the red zone, stifling another Wolverine scoring opportunity. Jacas capped off his dominant performance with all 2.5 of his sacks coming in the fourth quarter, as the Illini closed out the victory, remaining undefeated at Memorial Stadium this season.

Up Next For Illinois

With the win, Illinois improved to 6-1 overall and 3-1 in the Big Ten, maintaining their strong position in the conference standings. The victory over Michigan follows earlier wins over ranked opponents, adding to the Illini’s impressive season résumé. The team now turns its attention to a tough road test against No. 2 Oregon next Saturday at Autzen Stadium.

"What we've done is set the stage for for a really good ranked match up against Oregon," Bielema said looking ahead. "I know they're a very good football team. We'll celebrate tonight but put our preparation into Oregon tomorrow and move forward and see where we can go."

The Illini will kick off against Oregon on October 26 at 2:30 p.m. CT, with the game being broadcast nationally on CBS.

Keywords: Illinois vs Michigan football, Memorial Stadium Rededication Game, Illinois defense forces turnovers, Gabe Jacas sacks, Matthew Bailey interception, Illinois football wins, Big Ten football standings, Illini vs Oregon game preview

Illini tennis player wins title at Battle of the Bay

SNS – Despite dropping his opening singles match, Illinois junior Kenta Miyoshi bounced back with four consecutive victories over ranked opponents to win the singles consolation bracket at Battle In The Bay in San Francisco a week ago today. The No. 42-ranked player in the ITA singles rankings, Miyoshi recorded straight-set decisions in each of those four wins to finish the weekend with a 4-1 record.

Photo: PhotoNews/Clark Brooks

Illinois tennis player Kenta Miyoshi lines up a backhand shot at the 2023 Illini Open. He is ranked 42 in the ITA heading into his junior season.

Miyoshi teamed up with Illini senior Karlis Ozolins in doubles play, while Ozolins also took part in singles action during the four-day event. Unfortunately, the Illini duo fell in straight sets in their opening singles matches. Miyoshi suffered a two-set defeat to Arizona's Zoran Ludoski, 6-4, 6-3.

Meanwhile, Ozolins battled but came up short 6-4, 6-2, in his match to UC Santa Barbara's Dominique Rolland.

Competing in the consolation singles bracket, Miyoshi picked up his first singles win of the season with a 6-2, 6-3 decision over No. 103 Maxi Homberg of Pepperdine.

A day later, he earned his second-ranked win of the weekend with a 7-5, 6-4 victory over Spaniard Pedro Vives. Vives ranked No. 37 and a senior at Texas Christian University, completed high school at Rafa Nadal Academy.

One victory away from the consolation finals, Miyoshi took care of business against Arizona's Casper Christensen in straight sets, 6-3, 7-5.

After taking the first set 7-5 against Savriyan Danilov, the Illinois junior dominated the second set to win the title with a 6-2 finish over the San Diego State graduate student from Moscow.

Sims-Fletcher joins the Illini gymnastics program

CHAMPAIGN - Illinois women's gymnastics program appointed Aja Sims-Fletcher as an assistant coach. The announcement of the staff addition came Thursday from Fighting Illini head coach Nadalie Walsh.

"From the very first conversation in the hiring process, it was immediately apparent to me that she is a woman of positivity, gratitude, resilience, and excellence," Walsh said yesterday in a statement. "I believe she will connect incredibly well with the student-athletes and will help us continue to cultivate a champion-minded team."

Aja Sims-Fletcher joins the Illinois women's gymnastics program this fall.

Photo provided

Sims-Fletcher joins the Illinois program after serving one year as the first head coach of Talladega College’s women’s gymnastics team. She is the second individual in the history of HBCU athletics to coach gymnastics. In February, the Tornadoes became the first HBCU program to win an NCAA-sanctioned meet, defeating the University of Alaska Anchorage and host Centenary.

Despite Talladega's success, last month Interim president Dr. Walter M. Kimbrough announced the private school's gymnastics program would close two weeks later citing the lack of financial resources to continue.

A standout gymnast at Alabama, Sims-Fletcher holds a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and exercise science, as well as an MBA from the University of Alabama.

She is excited to join the Illini program and looks forward to helping continue the team's success on the national stage.

"I'm honored to join the University of Illinois gymnastics program," said Sims-Fletcher. The Orlando, Fla., native has coached at various levels, including high school, club, and college. She was a volunteer assistant coach at her alma mater. "The passion and dedication of the athletes, coaches, and the entire Illini community are truly inspiring. I am excited to work with the team and contribute to our collective goal of achieving excellence, in and out of the gym. This program has a proud tradition of success, and I look forward to starting this new chapter with this amazing team!"

Illinois volleyball broadcast schedule announced

CHAMPAIGN - Three Fighting Illini matches are slated to air on Big Ten Network while a pair of contests are scheduled for FS1.

The Orange and Blue's Big Ten opener against Oregon on Sept. 27 from Eugene, OR, and the first conference match at home against Nebraska on Oct. 3 will be available on FS1. Illinois' first Big Ten Network appearance will be coverage from the Michigan State contest on Oct. 12. The matches against Indiana (Oct. 16) and at Purdue (Nov. 17) will also air on the conference network.

All Big Ten Conference matches that have not been designated for television will air on B1G+.

The first home match of the season is on Sept. 3, when the Illini host Illinois State at Huff Hall. Illinois topped the Redbirds, 3-1, last year. Brooke Mosher logged 37 assists and 16 digs, pacing the squad in both categories in the four-set victory.

2024 ILLINOIS VOLLEYBALL TELEVISION SCHEDULE
Date	Time (CT)	Opponent	Network
Sept. 27	9:30 p.m.	at Oregon	FS1
Oct. 3	6 p.m.	Nebraska	FS1
Oct. 12	TBA	at Michigan State	BTN
Oct. 16	6 p.m.	Indiana	BTN
Nov. 17	4 p.m.	at Purdue	BTN

Illinois linebacker named to Allstate Wuerffel Trophy watch list

SNS - In the fast-paced world of college football, it's easy to get lost in the shuffle of stats, scores, and standout plays. Last week, University of Illinois linebacker Kenenna Odeluga was named to the 2024 watch list for the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy by the Wuerffel Foundation and the National College Football Awards Association (NCFAA) on Thursday. A rising star, he has made a name for himself as a force both in the game and in the community, embodying the true spirit of a student-athlete.

Photo provided

In 2024, he was nominated for the prestigious Allstate AFCA Good Works Team, a testament to their dedication beyond the gridiron. This honor recognizes players who have made a significant impact in their communities, and Odeluga has certainly earned it. A two-time Academic All-Big Ten selection (2022 and 2023), he has consistently excelled in the classroom, balancing the demands of academics and athletics.

Last summer, Odeluga embarked on a mission trip to Africa, an experience that left an indelible mark. There, he not only contributed to various service projects but also connected with local communities, gaining a deeper understanding of global issues and the power of compassion.

Back home, Odeluga has been a familiar face at the Carle Foundation Hospital, where he visited children battling illnesses, spreading joy and offering support to families in need. His community service extends to helping build a garden at the Salvation Army, a project aimed at providing fresh produce to those in need. He also worked with DREAAM, engaging with kids during the organization's community service events and helping to create a positive and uplifting environment.

In January 2024, Odeluga attended the Black Student Athlete Summit in Los Angeles, where he connected with professionals and athletic faculty members from across the nation. This gathering, which brought together 1,500 student-athletes, offered a unique opportunity for networking and personal growth.

As a member of the Illinois Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), Odeluga serves as a representative for the football program. In this role, they've been actively involved in various athletics community initiatives, advocating for their peers and helping to shape the future of Illinois athletics.

Odeluga has proven time and time again that he is more than just a standout player on the field. As a leader and a compassionate individual, he is using his education and knowledge to make a difference.

Illini cross country squad takes second at Bradley meet

PEORIA – Earlier today, the Illinois men's cross country squad finished second at the Bradley Pink Classic.

Jack Roberts led the Illini contingent, collecting his third individual win on the season with a time of 24:08.4 in today's 8k race. Roberts, a senior, hasn't finished below second place in the final standings all year. The Downers Grove native also placed first at the Illini Open and the Gans Creek Classic at Columbia last month.

Alex Partlow extended his streak of top-10 finishes to four, crossing the finish line in fifth-place finish at 24:22.3. Teammate Brady Masters rounded out the top 10 for the Illini when he crossed 10th and clocked a 24:37.0. Later, Anthony Maida, a junior, made it across the line to give Illinois four finishers in the top 20. Turning in a time of 24:39.5, he finished 17th in the field of 199 runners.

The Illinois men's team finished with 120 points behind meet champions IUPUI (118) and enjoyed a 15-point advantage over Wichita State, who finished third. Host Bradley University finished in fourth place with 160 points, and Cincinnati rounded out the top five squads in the Red Division, earning 165 points.

Illinois volleyball season opens season against EIU in a free exhibition match

CHAMPAIGN – The Fighting Illini volleyball team will start their 2023-24 season on August 16 at Huff Hall in an exhibition contest against Eastern Illinois University. The match, which is free general public, will start at 6 p.m.

Illinois' regular season play starts on August 26 at Northern Illinois University. After the road opener on Saturday, the Illini hosts their first home contest three days later against Valparaiso at 6 p.m. on August. 29.

The Illini will enjoy the services of nine veteran players and six newcomers this season. American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) all-region selection Raina Terry and Big Ten All-Freshman Team honoree Brooke Mosher return to the squad led by head coach Chris Tamas, who starts his seventh season at the helm.

2023 season tickets are on sale now and can be reserved online by following this link here.

New foes for the Illini; Oregon and Washington join the Big Ten Conference

CHAMPAIGN - Yesterday, the Big Ten formally welcomed Oregon and Washington universities into the conference, expanding it to an 18-team super conference, the largest in the history of college football. As the league’s 17th and 18th members, the two schools will begin competing in all sports starting August 2 next year.

The Ducks and Husky programs become the third and fourth Pac-12 members to leave the conference for the Big Ten in the last 13 months. USC and UCLA announced their departures last summer and joined the league fold. The addition of four west coast schools makes the super conference a coast-to-coast revenue generator.

In a statement released this morning, Athletic Director Josh Whitman welcomed Illinois' two new rivals to the Big Ten next year.

"Like Illinois, Oregon and Washington are the flagship universities of their respective states," Whitman said. "They are renowned academic institutions that have long and celebrated histories of excellence at the intersection of higher education and intercollegiate athletics. We are thrilled to have them as peers, colleagues, and competitors."

He added that new athletic rivals will create "unique opportunities for our student-athletes to experience new parts of our country, to compete against the best and brightest from all across the nation, and to develop personal networks in new sectors and locations."

The conference expansion may not be over. Circulating scuttlebutt indicates the Big Ten is also considering adding other programs like Notre Dame, Stanford, California State, or perhaps a school or two from the ACC, according to Brett McMurphy of Action Network.

"College athletics remains in a period of intense disruption. At a time when the Big Ten's voice and influence must be at its strongest, maintaining a robust philosophical alignment among the conference's growing membership has never been more needed," Whitman said. "Oregon and Washington embody the Big Ten's long-held values, and all of us at Illinois look forward to partnering with them on issues large and small in the years ahead."

The Big Ten is big spender in a buyer's market. The conference's media rights revenue is huge. Speculation from ESPN and other sources says the pot of gold for the television rights is around $30 million in 2024 with annual $1 million escalators until the completion of new deals with broadcasters. According to CBS, Oregon and Washington will receive something north of 50% shares of Big Ten media rights revenue until their contracts are renewed. Meanwhile, the other Big Ten members will rake in $60 million or more a year.

Illini knock off Cornhuskers, Ozolins leads Illinois with two wins

Photo: PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks

URBANA - Karlis Ozolins crushes a forehand during his match against Nebraska's Roni Hietaranta on Sunday. The Illinois sophomore from Latvia, who is ranked No. 46, rolled to 6-1, 6-1, victory in his singles match against Hietaranta. The Fighting Illini tennis team won their last home match of the season over the visiting Cornhuskers, 4-2. Ozolins also picked up an earlier win with doubles partner Hunter Heck. The pair defeated Nebraska's William Gleason and Leo Linquet, 6-2.

Box Score

Doubles Results

1. No. 50 Hunter Heck Karlis Ozolins (ILL) def. William Gleason/Leo Linquet (NEB), 6-2
2. No. 52 Mathis Debru Oliver Okonkwo (ILL) vs. Calvin Mueller/Lars Johann (NEB), 3-3 UF
3. Gabrielius Guzauskas William Mroz (ILL) def. Roni Hietaranta/Shunya Maruyama (NEB), 6-1

Singles Results

1. No. 46 Karlis Ozolins (ILL) def. Roni Hietaranta (NEB), 6-1, 6-1
2. Leo Linquet (NEB) def. Hunter Heck (ILL), 6-2, 2-6, 6-3
3. No. 88 Alex Petrov (ILL) def. Shunya Maruyama (NEB), 6-4, 6-3
4. Lars Johann (NEB) def. William Mroz (ILL), 6-4, 6-3
5. Oliver Okonkwo (ILL) def. William Gleason (NEB), 3-6, 6-1, 6-2
6. Nic Meister (ILL) vs. Nic Wiedenhorn (NEB), 6-3, 6-7, 4-1 unfinished