“I really enjoyed my time at Illinois," Douglas said during a recent trip to Rock Island to watch Quincy play the Rocks. "Back then Illinois was a special place and still is close to my heart. I’m not able to get back to very many games, but when I can I do or will watch them on TV.

"I was able to attend the Maryland game this year, it was exciting. I could see growth in the program; the kids could have rolled over, but they fought back like winners do. I’ve not had a chance to sit down and talk to Coach (Brad) Underwood just yet. I ‘ll make time for it; from what I’ve seen on TV and the Maryland game he has my full support.

“Things are exciting and new for everyone right now with the new coaching staff; I think they’re going to be OK. The energy and defense is being installed, the tempo is fast which should be attractive to players today.”

Underwood has talked about the former players and how important they are to him and the university: “Every program is strong because of its history, the more you can stay connected to the history and the present and future not only for the players but the fans as well.”

The game is played a lot differently today than how it was in the early ‘80s and probably the ‘90s Douglas can see the change in the game and the way coaches are dealing with players today.