Western Illinois University Athletics will host its largest fundraiser of the year in less than two weeks. In response to the rise in COVID-19 cases and University face covering policy, the 32nd Annual Purple & Gold Auction will move all online. 

"We were really looking forward to seeing everyone at Western Hall for an in-person event, but a variety of factors led us to move the event entirely online," said Director of Athletics Danielle Surprenant. "We had a very successful online event last year and now encourage everyone to register, participate, bid, and help raise money for our deserving student-athletes."

To participate, visit wiu.maestroweb.com to register a free account and view a wide range of items, including several one-of-a-kind Leatherneck-themed items. The online auction will begin 8 a.m. on Friday, August 13. A live program hosted by Surprenant and members of the athletic staff will begin at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 14. The live program will be streamed on the Athletic Department Twitter and Facebook pages at @WIUAthletics. The program will feature videos from head coaches and two outstanding student-athlete speakers Aubrey Putman (volleyball) and Will Carius (men's basketball). All online bidding will close at 8 p.m. on Saturday, August 14.

Several marquee items are on the auction block this year, including:

• A 2016 Yamaha gas golf cart (includes lights and a custom paint job)

• A one-week stay in Steamboat Springs, CO

• A VIP trip with WIU Women's Basketball to Butler

• A framed and autographed Justin Fields Chicago Bears' jersey

• Painted concrete Rocky bulldogs courtesy of Ardith Ford '65 and the late Dave Ford '65

• An LED flex "W" sign

• Exclusive WIU Athletics Adidas gear

• A VIP trip with WIU Men's Basketball to Nebraska

• A pheasant hunt for four at Halter's Hunt Club in Pleasant Prairie, WI

• Four (4) tickets to the Cubs vs. Cardinals game in St. Louis on Saturday, October 2

• A VIP trip with WIU Football to Ball State

• A framed and autographed Christian Okoye Kansas City Chiefs' jersey

• Two (2) tickets to the Reds vs. Cubs game in Chicago on Wednesday, September 8

• A framed and autographed Gale Sayers Chicago Bears' jersey

• Golf packages, jewelry, memorabilia, and so much more!
  
  

To view the complete list of auction items, visit wiu.maestroweb.com.

Those who registered for the in-person event will receive a full refund.