As part of the University of Illinois’ commitment to building one of the nation’s premier football programs, the Henry Dale & Betty Smith Football Performance Center was developed to completely transform the student-athlete experience. The new 107,650-square-foot, $79.2 million facility serves as the daily home for Fighting Illini Football, bringing together training, recovery, player development, recruiting, and team operations under one roof. 

Working alongside HOK, Granger Construction, and the University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics, Shaw PPC Design partnered throughout the project to help translate the architectural vision into an immersive branded environment. Our team provided design collaboration, engineering, custom manufacturing, and precision installation of architectural graphics, dimensional branding elements, specialty finishes, and custom fabricated features throughout the facility.

Every element was carefully engineered to complement HOK’s award-winning design while celebrating the history, pride, and future of Illinois Football. From the dramatic entry sequences and recruiting spaces to the expansive team locker room and player development areas, Shaw PPC Design delivered custom branding solutions that seamlessly integrate with the building’s architecture, creating an environment that inspires student-athletes from the moment they walk through the doors.

Designed to support every aspect of player performance, the Smith Center features a 10,000-square-foot team locker room, 15,000-square-foot strength and conditioning complex, 11,000-square-foot sports medicine suite, nutrition center, position meeting rooms, coaches’ offices, recruiting lounge, player lounge, rooftop terrace, and premium spaces dedicated to athlete wellness and development. The result is a facility that strengthens recruiting while providing the resources necessary to compete at the highest level of collegiate football. 

Today, the Henry Dale & Betty Smith Football Performance Center stands among the premier football facilities in the country, reflecting the University’s investment in excellence while showcasing how thoughtful design, precision engineering, and expert craftsmanship can transform a building into an unforgettable student-athlete experience.