We asked a few Illini sports greats what they remember most about the day they said “I do” to C-U. Here’s Kurt Kittner, who won a Big Ten title and still ranks No. 1 all-time at Illinois for touchdowns thrown (70) and No. 2 for passing yards (8,722).
“I signed my letter of intent at Schaumburg High in the athletic director’s office. My mom and head coach were present and I was wearing Illini orange and blue.
“There were no nerves involved. I had committed to Illinois before my senior year — the team went 0-11 in 1997 — and I was ready to make it official. I never wavered on my commitment to Illinois.
“Some friends questioned my decision to stay with Illinois after their terrible season, but I knew that I would have a chance to compete early in a system that fit me.
“Looking back now at 38 years old, it was the best decision I could have made.”
