Illinois State

The Illinois State Redbirds embody a century-long legacy of athletic achievement and Olympic excellence at Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois. Competing within NCAA Division I as Missouri Valley Conference members, the Redbirds have amassed an impressive 160 MVC league titles across 19 varsity sports, showcasing competitive dominance throughout their history. The football team’s highlight includes a 2015 FCS National Championship game appearance, while their softball squad boasts eight Women’s College World Series berths and won the 1969 NCAA Division II baseball championship. Basketball legends such as NBA coach Doug Collins and 1984 Olympic gold medalist Cathy Boswell reflect the program’s rich talent pool. Facilities including Hancock Stadium and CEFCU Arena provide outstanding competitive environments supporting championship traditions. The track and field programs have cultivated Olympic champions such as Charlotte Lewis, who earned a silver medal in 1976, and Aisha Praught, who represented Jamaica at the 2016 Olympics. Numerous athletes have reached Olympic trials and World Championships, underscoring Illinois State’s commitment to elite competition. Honoring the memory of the "Redbird 7" and their enduring spirit, Illinois State proudly competes in red and white, fostering champions who excel nationally and internationally across multiple sports.