(WAND) - Illinois Athletics is expanding its longstanding partnership with Busey Bank.
The University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics announced Busey Bank will become the Official Financial Services Partner of the Fighting Illini. Starting this fall, it will be featured as the inaugural jersey patch partner for Illinois Athletics.
The University of Illinois and Busey Bank were founded months apart in 1867 and 1868 respectively.
Busey Bank is a charter member of DIA's new Pillar Partnership Program. It will be the exclusive jersey patch sponsor for Illinois football, men's and women's basketball, volleyball, baseball, soccer, softball, and men's and women's golf.
The Busey Bank mark will also be on sideline apparel worn by Illinois coaches.
"With the introduction of increased corporate visibility on uniforms and coaching apparel, it was important for us to identify the right partner for such a high-profile, first-of-its-kind opportunity to be so closely aligned with our student-athletes, staff and the Fighting Illini brand," said Director of Athletics Josh Whitman. "For nearly 160 years, the University of Illinois and Busey Bank have shared a history that has helped shape this great community. Both of our organizations are experiencing remarkable growth in prominence, reputation and success, and we are excited to help each other further accelerate our respective missions through this exciting partnership."
"This is more than a sponsorship. It's an investment in the future of Illinois Athletics and in the students and alumni who carry the University's impact beyond campus," said Van Dukeman, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of First Busey Corporation. "Rooted in Champaign-Urbana, Busey and the University of Illinois were founded just three months apart, and we're proud to continue that shared legacy through a partnership grounded in excellence and community. Together, we're creating opportunities that will benefit student-athletes, students, alumni, fans and the communities we serve for generations to come."
The partnership will be activated across athletic venues, digital platforms, media broadcasts and fan experiences.
Busey Bank will also maintain its title sponsorship of the Illinois Athletics Fighting Illini radio network and continue with community events like Busey Bank FamILLy Movie Night at Gies Memorial Stadium, Field Trip Day at Illini Women's Basketball, Illinois Baseball Day with Busey Bank and the Busey Bank Kid Captain of the Game.
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