LIVE REPORT:
Illini Fans Celebrate Citrus Bowl Victory and New Year’s Eve in Style
At Joe’s on Weed Street in Chicago, Fighting Illini fans erupted in cheers as they witnessed their team secure a 21-17 victory over the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl. The win, Illinois’ first bowl triumph since 2011, set the stage for an early New Year’s Eve celebration for hundreds of orange-and-blue-clad supporters.
A Party to Remember:
The bar, located at 940 W. Weed Street in Goose Island, was packed with Illinois alumni and fans eagerly watching the back-and-forth contest. Decked out in Illini colors and festive New Year’s decorations, the crowd groaned when quarterback Luke Altmyer threw an interception in the third quarter but erupted in celebration when running back Josh McCray capitalized on a Gamecocks fumble to score the game-winning touchdown.
“It’s nice to see them being competitive,” said Eric Mennel, a 1986 graduate who attended the event with former classmates. Mennel, a lifelong fan, admitted that supporting Illinois has often come with its share of pessimism, but this victory was a high point. “When I was there, I made the best friends of my life. We stay connected through sports, and this win makes it all the more special.”
Generations of Pride:
For some fans, Illinois pride runs deep. Jessie Webster, a 2017 graduate, shared how her connection to the university is a family legacy. “My grandmother graduated from Illinois, and I loved the atmosphere of sporting events as a student,” Webster said. “Seeing so many people here rooting for the Illini reminds me why I’ll always support them academically, sportswise, everything.”
Similarly, Luis Villagomez, a 2020 graduate, reflected on the rarity of this moment. “When I was in school, they were never in a bowl game,” he said. “To finally see them win one is really cool. The sense of community and pride in being part of Illinois doesn’t go away after graduation.”
A Long-Awaited Victory:
The Illini’s win in the Citrus Bowl ended a 13-year drought in postseason play and marked a significant milestone for the program under head coach Bret Bielema. Fans at Joe’s on Weed Street watched intently as Illinois hoisted the George L. Stuart Trophy, capping off a memorable season and paving the way for future success.
As champagne bottles popped and cheers echoed through the bar, it was clear that this wasn’t just a football victory—it was a celebration of community, tradition, and hope for what’s to come.
“This is the perfect way to end the year,” Mennel said. “It’s more than a win—it’s a sign that Illinois football is back.”
