Chambana Sun

The University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics has announced the induction of 11 new members into the UI Athletics Hall of Fame. This marks the ninth class for the Hall of Fame, which includes athletes and a coach from various sports such as basketball, football, baseball, track and field, swimming and diving, and softball.

"The Illinois Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2025 is another reminder of the many great athletes and coaches who have represented the Fighting Illini," stated Josh Whitman, Illinois Director of Athletics. "Every year I love calling the new class members and hearing the excitement in their voices. We look forward to hosting each of these great Illini and their families this fall during the induction weekend."

Among those honored is Theresa Grentz, former women's basketball head coach. She led her team to significant achievements including a Big Ten title in 1997. Grentz's career record stands at 681-360 over 35 years as a head coach.

Football inductees include quarterback Kurt Kittner, known for leading his team to a Big Ten Championship in 2001, and Joe Rutgens, who was recognized as an All-American in 1960.

In swimming and diving, Jane Fauntz Manske made history by competing in two Olympic Games. Her accomplishments include setting world records in breaststroke events.

Scott Spiezio represents baseball with his record for home runs during his time at UI. He went on to win two World Series titles in Major League Baseball.

Track and field are represented by Benita Kelley Babridge and Aspen Burkett Miles. Both achieved multiple All-America honors during their careers at Illinois.

Mike Durkin also joins from track and field; he was a nine-time Big Ten champion known for his middle-distance running skills.

Meredith Hackett Kindt earned her place through notable performances in softball that led to First-Team All-America honors during her college career.

Gene Vance made his mark both as a basketball player on teams that won consecutive Big Ten titles in the early '40s and later served as Athletics Director from 1967-72.

Kiwane Garris is recognized for his contributions to basketball with significant scoring records throughout his college career.

The Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place on October 10 at State Farm Center. The inductees will be honored at a home football game against Ohio State on October 11.

Since its inception in 2017, the Illinois Athletics Hall of Fame now includes 154 members representing each varsity sport offered by the university since its first baseball team began competing in 1879.