The University of South Florida announced on Sept. 12 that they would offer complimentary admission to their upcoming NCAA football matchup against Illinois to first responders and their families, as well as Florida high school football teams, many of whom had their games canceled due to the storm.

  • Game at 7 p.m. at Raymond James Stadium
  • USF Bulls vs. Fighting Illini to be televised on ESPN
  • Game had been previously designated "#Baymade Youth Football Night"

"It's all about us giving back," said USF head coach Charlie Strong. "We want to make sure that everyone is working to give back and get their life (together). It's going to take a while, we know that. When things happen, we just want to make sure people understand that we do understand. We're not going through what they're going through, but we can help them get through what they're going through."

USF is offering first responders and their families admission for up to four people to the game. To claim their tickets, first responders will be asked to show their official issued ID at the will call ticket window at the stadium on Friday night.

Florida high school football teams wishing to attend are asked to contact the USF Football program for instructions on obtaining admission. Contact either Mike Giglio (giglio@usf.edu) or Lacey King (laceyk@usf.edu) to learn more.

Requests must be received by noon on Friday.

Currently, the USF Bulls are ranked #22 in the country and are expected to win the American Athletic Conference. Friday night's game against Illinois' Fighting Illini will be televised nationally on ESPN.