CHAMPAIGN — Heard from Mike Thomas early Monday afternoon.
I asked him for an interview, but he declined. Politely. Always politely.
“Hi Bob,” Thomas texted. “I appreciate the opportunity to visit, but will let you visit with my friends.
“Thanks for your great coverage of UI and best of luck in the future.”
In more than four years as Illinois athletic director, Thomas had his share of supporters. Including longtime Champaign developer Peter Fox.
“I had a high regard for Mike and the way he treated me directly,” Fox said. “I’m sorry to see he and his family leaving the community.