The Commercial-News, Danville, IL

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March 12, 2009

Williams prepares for Austrian trip

Westville standout playing at Illinois Wesleyan

BY DAVE HARRIS

WESTVILLE — For the last two years, Eli Justin Williams has been playing football for Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington where he attends college.

Williams is the former running back for the Westville football team where he was the Commercial-News Player of the Year.

“Things are going pretty good here.” Williams said. “Football is going well and my grades are good. I just made the Dean’s list.”

This past season, Williams accounted for 744 all-purpose yards as the Titans went 6-4 overall and 3-4 in the CCIW.

Every four years, the football players at Illinois Wesleyan are offered the opportunity to be a part of an athletic and cultural exchange trip.

This year they have the chance to travel to Vienna, Austria and the Czech Republic from June 1-10, and play against the Austrian Football Club team — the Vienna Vikings.

Football is a very popular sport in Austria, second only to alpine skiing.

The Illinois Wesleyan Titans will also take the time to do some sight-seeing and visit historical sites.

“I’m looking forward to the memories that will be made from this trip.” Williams said. “Being in a foreign country and playing football in front of thousands of people.”

“He’s worked hard and this is a great opportunity,’’ said Sue Williams, Eli’s mother.

To take part in the trip, every player needs to raise $3500. This cost includes everything from airfare, to meals, hotels expenses and visits to different historical landmarks.

The Williams family plans to put together a couple fundraisers to help send Eli to Europe for this once in a lifetime experience. They are also currently looking for sponsors.

For information on how you can sponsor Eli, please call Illinois Wesleyan football coach, Norm Eash, at (309) 556-3344 or Sue Williams at 267-7549.

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