May 27, 2008

CARBONDALE, Ill. - Mark the following special events on your calendar for the 2008 Southern Illinois University football season. The Salukis, who celebrate the 25th Anniversary of their 1983 National Championship team, host six games at McAndrew Stadium this year.

The beginning of the Dale Lennon era marks a celebration of SIU football history, as the Salukis vie for their sixth consecutive postseason berth.

Saturday, Sept. 6 -- Southern Illinois vs. Hampton, 6 p.m.
SIU's season-opener will feature a special pre-game launch of the hot air balloon, "Touchdown," from the stadium (weather permitting), and pre-game fun for all ages on Saluki Row.

Saturday, Sept. 27 -- Southern Illinois vs. Northern Iowa, 6 p.m.
The Salukis square off against arch-rival Northern Iowa in their Gateway Conference opener as part of Family Weekend. SIU welcomes back members of its 1983 National Championship team to participate in a weekend-long reunion, honoring the 25th Anniversary of that historic season. The game is sponsored by Banterra Bank.

Saturday, Oct. 11 -- Southern Illinois vs. Indiana State, 1:30 p.m.
Homecoming. The game is sponsored by Quality Connection.

Saturday, Nov. 1 -- Southern Illinois vs. North Dakota, 2 p.m.
SIU will honor our American Heroes as part of Military Appreciation Day and take part in the national Wounded Warrior Project. Local military personnel and veterans will be recognized throughout the game and participate in other various activities, including the coin toss. All active military and veterans will receive special discounted tickets to the game.

Saturday, Nov. 8 -- Southern Illinois vs. Western Illinois, 2 p.m.
Saluki Band Director Andrew Tucker and the Marching Salukis host their second annual Marching Band Day.

Saturday, Nov. 15 -- Southern Illinois vs. South Dakota State, 2 p.m.
SIU will honor its seniors prior to kickoff against South Dakota State, one of two new members in the Gateway Conference this season.

Season tickets are on sale now -- $90 for adults, $85 for SIU Faculty/Staff and $45 for youth (high school and under). Family packs (2 adult and 3 youth) are also available for $240.

Tickets can be purchased at the SIU Arena Ticket Office, on-line at www.siusalukis.com and by calling (618) 453-2000 or 1-877-SALUKIS. Click Here to view your 2008 Saluki Football ticket options.

For information on hosting an event on Saluki Row for your company, church or other group, call Saluki Group Sales at (618) 453-5153.

Additional special events and giveaways will be released at a later date.