The Huskie Athletic Fund is launching its vision for the upcoming project, the 1899 Club, an approximately $4 million multi-use facility that is the next step in fulfilling Northern Illinois University Athletics' commitment to provide enhanced nutritional services for NIU student-athletes in the form of a training table. The name references the initial year that NIU competed in intercollegiate athletics.
Designed to build off of and expand on the Northwestern Medicine Sports Performance Center and the Phi Sigma Kappa Alumni Association of NIU Nutrition Center which opened in June 2019 and services all NIU student-athletes, the 1899 Club will initially provide training table meals for the NIU football, volleyball and basketball teams and will expand to additional programs.
When not in use for team meals, the 1899 Club will allow NIU's Student-Athlete Academic Support Services (SAASS) unit to increase its footprint. The proximity of the space to current SAASS offices and study areas in the Yordon Center can be used for additional tutoring and small group meetings.
Contributions to the 1899 Club are tax deductible as allowed by federal tax laws. Donors should consult with their tax advisor concerning all deductions resulting from charitable benefits.