Southern Illinoise University Athletics
SIU, Banterra Offer Free Football Tickets to Du Quoin Fire Responders
09/08/2026 | 1:35:00 | Football, General
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Athletics and Banterra Bank are proud to announce a joint community initiative to honor the firefighters and first responders who battled last week's devastating multi-structure fire in downtown Du Quoin.
In recognition of their service, every firefighter and first responder who worked the incident will receive up to four complimentary tickets to the Saluki Football home opener against SEMO on Saturday, Sept. 12, courtesy of Banterra Bank and Saluki Athletics.
The Saluki Ticket Office is in the process of contacting all the agencies involved. If your agency or department was involved in the response to the Du Quoin fire and has not been contacted by Wednesday morning, please call 618-453-2000 or email tickets@siu.edu.
The fire, which began early Wednesday near the Home Lumber Co. property, grew into a massive blaze that destroyed multiple businesses and required assistance from more than 30 departments across Southern Illinois. Crews worked through the night to contain the fire, drawing on millions of gallons of water and coordinated support from regional agencies. The Illinois State Fire Marshal and federal investigators continue to review the cause. Three businesses were lost in the blaze.
SIU head coach Nick Hill, a Du Quoin native, said the partnership is a meaningful way to support the community he grew up in.
"Du Quoin is home for me, and seeing the images of that fire was heartbreaking," Hill said. "But the way our firefighters and first responders stepped up — the way they protected people, worked together, and showed what Southern Illinois is all about — that's something we want to honor. We're proud to welcome them to Saluki Stadium."
The firefighters and first responders in attendance will be invited onto the field during the game to be recognized.
Banterra Bank is also the sponsor of the game, and a regular partner with Saluki Athletics. The bank has 25 locations across Southern Illinois.
"Banterra Bank is proud to stand with Saluki Athletics in honoring the firefighters and first responders whose courage and teamwork protected the Du Quoin community," said Jeff May of Banterra Bank. "Offering these tickets is a small way to express our gratitude and recognize the extraordinary service they provide to communities across Southern Illinois every day."
The Du Quoin Tourism Commission has established a fundraiser to benefit the business owner directly impacted by the fire. Donations can be made at saluk.is/duquoin.
The Sept. 12 matchup marks the annual War for the Wheel rivalry game between SIU and SEMO, held during Family Weekend at Saluki Stadium. The game kicks off at 6 p.m. at Saluki Stadium. The game is being treated as a Maroon Out, so fans are encouraged to wear maroon Saluki gear.
Tickets to the game can be purchased at saluk.is/warforthewheel.
