Gameday Spirit Fanstore, University of Illinois Athletics, and Illini Women's Basketball have announced a new initiative titled "Women Win In Orange." This campaign aims to celebrate women and girls in sports, aligning with the Women's Sports Foundation's National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD). The initiative will reach its peak on February 6, 2025, when the Fighting Illini Women's Basketball team plays against Northwestern at State Farm Center. The game is set to start at 7 PM CT.
In the lead-up to this event, several activities are planned to honor women's achievements in sports and foster community involvement. A notable feature is the launch of Gameday Spirit's exclusive "Women Win In Orange" product line. These items will be available online, in stores, and at State Farm Center. Fans attending the game are encouraged to wear this gear or orange attire to show their support for the team and the initiative. Social media engagement is also encouraged through posts featuring the exclusive shirts or Illini Women's Basketball jerseys using the hashtag #WomenWinInOrange. A prize pack will be awarded to one fan as part of this social media activity.
The halftime show will include a youth girls basketball scrimmage, highlighting young female athletes. Additionally, a networking event is scheduled to connect University of Illinois students with established women in sports, offering mentorship opportunities. Before the game starts, Gameday Spirit will present the Game Changer Award to a female leader who has significantly contributed to advancing opportunities for women and girls in sports.
The schedule for "Women Win In Orange" includes various events starting from January 17 with the campaign launch and social media giveaway. Nominations for the Game Changer Award will be accepted from January 8-20. Other key dates include home games against Michigan State on January 19 and Purdue on January 27, where finalists for the award will be announced.
Tickets for the February 6 game can be purchased at fightingillini.com. Merchandise from the "Women Win In Orange" collection is available at Gameday Spirit stores and during games at State Farm Center.
For more information about these activities, visit fightingillini.com/NGWSD2025.
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