September 30, 2026

COUNTRY Financial® to Sponsor “War on 74” Rivalry Between Illinois State University and Bradley University 

COUNTRY Financial announced today it will sponsor “War on 74,” a rivalry series between Illinois State University (ISU) and Bradley University Athletics, which will include competition in athletics, academics and community service. 

Key facts

• “War on 74” is a long-held, Central Illinois tradition between ISU and Bradley athletics. 
• For the first time, ISU and Bradley athletics have created a War on 74 series, sponsored by COUNTRY Financial. The initiative will place the two rivals in a months-long competition for the best in athletics, academics and community service. The winning school will receive a traveling Rivalry Series trophy.
• The winner of the “War on 74” rivalry is determined by a detailed points system:
  • Athletic competitions – 1 point
  • Student-athlete fall semester GPA – 1 point
  • Community blood drive (date TBA), winner determined by most pints collected – 1 point
  • Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year in sports both universities compete in – 1 point
  • Missouri Valley Conference Coach of the Year in sports both universities compete in – 1 point    
• The competition kicks off with the first head-to-head matchup athletic event, women’s volleyball on October 6 at CEFCU Arena in Normal. 
• COUNTRY Financial is the proud presenting sponsor of the “War on 74” rivalry series, supporting student-athletes from the two schools, both in competition and in the classroom.
• Local COUNTRY representatives will participate by cheering on their favorite team at athletic events and participating alongside in community service events.   

COUNTRY has a long history of supporting athletic events at the local level. “COUNTRY Financial is a community-focused, relationship-driven organization, and sports encourage communities to gather together for a common cause. We’re excited to work with Illinois State University and Bradley University to reach the fans who are cheering on their team next to us in the stands,” said Chris Mizell, District Leader at COUNTRY Financial, who works with COUNTRY representatives in the Bloomington-Normal area. 

“As a former student athlete, I know what this rivalry represents for Central Illinois,” said Bryce Kiser, District Leader for the Peoria agency at COUNTRY. “It’s the pride of supporting your local team and claiming victory. The longstanding rivalry between ISU and Bradley is a great way to rally our representatives and the community in a fun and meaningful way.” 

“We are excited to welcome Country Financial as a partner in a rivalry that means so much to Bradley, Illinois State and communities throughout Central Illinois. Their support strengthens this longstanding tradition and helps bring our student-athletes, fans and communities together,” said Dr. Chris Reynolds, Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics at Bradley University. 

“The longstanding rivalry between Illinois State and Bradley is one of the many things that make competing in athletics at ISU so special," ISU Director of Athletics Dr. Jeri Beggs said. "College sports are fueled by great rivalries, and we have had many memorable moments against Bradley across all sports in our department's history. The announcement of the “War on 74,” rivalry series will only further that excitement and history and will turn the focus from not only the competition in athletics, but also to academics and community service. We would like to thank COUNTRY Financial for their support and sponsorship of this series, and for all of their support of Illinois State Athletics over the years. We look forward to competition beginning very soon and getting this series officially started."

Learn more

Check back for more information on a dedicated web page that will provide updates on the rivalry standings throughout the school year. In the meantime, visit goredbirds.com for Illinois State University athletics news and bradleybraves.com for Bradley University athletics updates. 

About COUNTRY Financial®

Founded by farmers in 1925, COUNTRY Financial® helps individuals, families, businesses, and farms protect what matters most through insurance and financial services solutions. Today, COUNTRY serves nearly 1.5 million people across 19 states through a network of more than 3,000 employees and 1,800 financial representatives. Learn more at COUNTRYFinancial.com.

Media contact

news@countryfinancial.com