Chief Illiniwek

THE UNIVERSITY The University of Illinois was established in the year 1867. Soon after, it began fielding athletic teams named the “Fighting Illini.” The University was as proud then, as it is now, to be associated with the native peoples for whom the state was named. The Illini attributes of strength, courage, and honor were deeply admired and well-respected.ILLINIWEK To early Illinois Indian tribes, the word “Illiniwek” meant “we are men,” or “the complete man.” Football Coach Bob Zuppke is believed to have been the first person to use the expression “Illiniwek” in describing the strength of the character of his teams: “The complete man, the strong, physical man, the intellectual man, and the spiritual man.” The name “Illiniwek” would later prove the perfect complement to the symbol chosen to represent the tradition of Illinois’ athletics.THE CHIEF In 1926, two Eagle Scouts, Lester Leutwiler and Ralph Hubbard, combined their extensive knowledge of Indian lore in the creation of “the Chief” - a symbol to represent both honor and tradition at the University of Illinois. Over the years, the Chief has served as a symbol of belonging for hundreds of thousands of men and women, all proud to call themselves “Illini,” and prouder still to honor the tradition for which the Chief stands.