Discover Champaigns Rich Sporting History Through These MustVisit Sites

If youre a sports enthusiast looking to explore the vibrant, cultured, diverse, historic and friendly aspects of people who live in Champaign, IL., then look no further than these mustvisit sites that showcase the citys rich sporting history.

First on the list is Memorial Stadium (1402 South 1st Street), located on the University of Illinois campus. Built in 1923 and expanded multiple times since then, this stadium has been home to notable Fighting Illini football games for nearly a century. From Red Granges legendary performance against Michigan in 1924 to Dick Butkus domination as a linebacker in the 60s, visitors can relive some of college footballs greatest moments by taking a tour or attending a game.

Another iconic destination is State Farm Center (1800 S First St.), formerly known as Assembly Hall before undergoing renovations in 2014. This indoor arena played host to countless memorable basketball games featuring NBA stars like Nick Anderson and Deron Williams as well as womens teams led by NCAA greats like Allison Feaster.

For baseball enthusiasts seeking out local tradition and culture, there is Illinois Field (1605 S Wright St.). The Fighting Illini have called it home since its opening during the World War II era. In fact one of their most celebrated pitchers Lou Boudreau played here before he became an MLB star with Cleveland Indians.

Finally,the Virginia Theatre (203 W Park Ave) showcases cinematic documentaries focusing on various sports throughout history ranging from boxing matches between Muhammad Ali & Sonny Liston to Olympic triumphs from Jesse Owensfamed gold medal win at Berlin Games to Phelps record swim medals over his career .

To experience Champaigns diverse sporting heritage upcloseandpersonal through visiting these locations steeped with historical significance capturing decades old memories that remain embedded deep among locals even today.

Websites:

Memorial Stadium: https://www.memorialstadium.com/

State Farm Center: https://statefarmcenter.com/

Illinois Field: http://fightingillini.com/sports/2008/7/24/Facilities_Illinois_Field_html.aspx

Virginia Theater:http://thevirginia.org/aboutthevirginia/historyofthevirginia/,

Twitter handles @TheViginina_champaign, @UIathletics