Illini dealing with life after Chief

Illinois halftime shows otherwise the same

Monday, July 23, 2007

By JOHN R. PULLIAM

The Register-Mail

GALESBURG - A Galesburg man who was the last Chief Illiniwek thinks a decision by the University of Illinois to make no drastic changes in its halftime show may cause some problems. However, Dan Maloney said the "Three-in-One" music was a band tradition before the arrival of the chief.

Maloney, reached this morning in Champaign, said he is glad the Marching Illini can continue its traditions.

"At the same time, it's kind of a bittersweet feeling. I'm really happy when they play, people will think of the Chief," Maloney said, although he's not sure everyone will agree at first. "I think it is going to be strange. More importantly, I think the first time will cause controversy. (Spectators) will hear that music and think the Chief will appear. It's going to rehash a lot of the feelings about the way the university, and especially the Board of Trustees handled it."

Removing the chief freed the university of NCAA sanctions after the organization deemed Illiniwek - portrayed by buckskin-clad students who dance at home football and basketball games and other athletic events - an offensive use of American Indian imagery and barred the school from hosting postseason athletic events.

Illini Marching Band Director Peter Griffin said the halftime show will look a lot like it did before, despite the Chief's absence.

Band members will play the "Three-in-One" music and form the letters I-L-L-I-N-I on the field.

"It will look as it always has, except there will be no gap between I-L-L and I-N-I," Griffin said.

University Chancellor Richard Herman said he made the decision to stick with the familiar halftime shows after consulting with former Chiefs and faculty and staff on campus.

"I'm not going to say the decision was unanimous, but I do think it's a good thing," he said.

Herman said the university has no plans for a new mascot or symbol.

The school shelved the mascot earlier this year after decades of debate over whether it was a racist symbol or an honored tradition.

The chief debuted in a homemade American Indian costume during an Illini football game in 1926 and has been a subject of turmoil for decades.

Supporters view the dancing mascot and his elaborate costume as an honored symbol of both American Indian tradition and Illini sports. Meanwhile, critics say the chief and his dance are racist and insulting.

Maloney said some people, including students, have talked about walking out of Memorial Stadium at halftime of the first show without the Chief.

"I hope the band doesn't take it personally," said Maloney, a former member of the Marching Illini whose girlfriend is still in the band. "The band is playing the 'Three-in-One' because that's part of their tradition."

The Associated Press contributed to this story.