CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – University of Illinois Athletics is honoring some of its most impressive former student-athletes and coaches.

On Friday, the Illini inducted 11 new members into their hall of fame.

The group includes Illini who competed more than 60 years ago, like former Illinois defensive tackle Joe Rutgens, and others who suited up in Champaign more recently – like former Illini quarterback Kurt Kittner.

“It means everything to me,” Rutgens, a first round NFL draft pick in 1962, said. “I really enjoyed being here, and I’m excited to be inducted into the hall of fame. It’s something I didn’t expect and I’m just lost for words.”

Longtime MLB player Scott Spiezio is also in the 2025 class. Spieizo was a 1993 All-American for Coach Itch Jones. He won a world series with both the Angels and Cardinals as a pro.

“I’m just tickled to death,” Spieizio told WCIA about his hall of fame honor. “I couldn’t believe it when [athletic director] Josh [Whitman] called me up.”

Spieizo, Kittner and Rutgens all predicted an Illini win on the football field against No. 1 Ohio State on Saturday.

Click here for more info on the 2025 Illini Athletics hall of fame.