CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – Football is officially back in Champaign, Illinois.

The Fighting Illini began their 2025 fall training camp on Friday with meetings, lifting, media availability and practice.

“Returning here feels incredible, you know, getting to see the team again after a short week off,” Illinois junior running back Aidan Laughery expressed before practice. “Spending four, eight weeks together every day, it’s like, yes, football is back. We’re in it. Everyone’s pumped up [and] set to go.”

The Illini aim to build on their 10-win season in 2024. They are striving to achieve consecutive bowl game appearances for the first time since 2010 and 2011.

“For us, starting strong is really important,” Illinois senior offensive lineman Josh Kreutz said. “Last year, we didn’t have a strong start. We finished strong, but we want to start stronger and even better this year. So starting the season off on the right foot is our goal.”