Illinois hosts SIU-E on Thursday, Nov. 2, with proceeds to benefit the Illinois Kids Wrestling Federation (IKWF)

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Fighting Illini wrestling tickets are on sale for the home-opening dual against SIU-Edwardsville on Thursday, Nov. 2 at 6 p.m. CT in the State Farm Center. All proceeds from the Illinois vs. SIU-E dual benefit the Illinois Kids Wrestling Federation (IKWF).

The IKWF is the USA Wrestling affiliate in Illinois, and is excited about this opportunity, encouraging fans to attend an exciting Div. I dual meet while helping raise funds for youth wrestling in Illinois.

“Illinois head coach Mike Poeta wants to give back to where he came from,” said Jim Considine, President of the IKWF and a USA Wrestling Board member. “I have known Mike since he was about eight years old. This is important. It is not just that the IKWF wants kids and parents in the state to see there is a future in the sport. We also want the University of Illinois community to see how important wrestling is in this state.”

The inaugural “Illini for the Kids” dual meet will also have a special free clinic for those in attendance. Purchase of a ticket will also grant access to the wrestling clinic hosted by former Illini two-time NCAA champion and Big Ten Champion Jesse Delgado. The clinic will take place in the State Farm Center from 4:00 p.m.-5:15 p.m. Doors open at 3:30 p.m.

Ticket prices are $10 for adults and $5 for students and can be purchased on FightingIllini.com. All UI students get free admission to the dual with their ICard. Parking is free for all fans.

The IKWF Board will meet later and decide how the funds raised from the Illinois vs. SIU-E dual meet will be used to help youth wrestling in the state.

Anyone attending the dual or clinic should enter through the main doors on the west side of State Farm Center. Wrestlers are allowed to bring in non-clear equipment bags or backpacks into the venue.

The dual and clinic will take place in State Farm Center's theater-style configuration. The mat will be laid out on a stage and there will be spotlights on the wrestlers and other lighting features.