The University of Illinois men’s golf team finished in second place at the Big Ten Championship on May 3, following a strong final-round effort at Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club’s Witch Hollow Course. The Illini, ranked twelfth nationally, narrowed a fifteen-shot deficit to four strokes behind No. 33 UCLA, who won the team title for the second consecutive year.
This result is significant as it highlights Illinois’ ability to compete against top programs and maintain its position among leading collegiate teams. The team’s performance reflects their competitive spirit and determination throughout the tournament.
Illinois entered the last day in third place but quickly closed the gap thanks to Max Herendeen’s eagle and birdie before halftime. A series of under-par scores from Herendeen and teammates saw Illinois briefly tie for first on the leaderboard during Sunday’s round. Head coach Mike Small said, “I told them after the round, I was very proud of them for what they did today. That was awesome. That’s what we’ve been looking for all year.” He added, “But we also talked about the round yesterday. That is the reason why we were in this position. The way we competed today, the way we had that look on our face – and the determination today – you have to bring that every day.” Small also praised Trey Marrion’s performance: “Trey was a horse today… For him to come back with that determination was awesome; to go out and do that was special. He led the charge, and to not have a guy shoot over par was what we needed.” Senior Ryan Voois finished tied for third alongside Herendeen; both earned All-Big Ten Championship Team honors.
University of Illinois Fighting Illini Men’s Golf engages in fall and spring tournaments including conference and national events according to its official website. The program enhances athletic heritage at Illinois while promoting values like team spirit and individual excellence according to its official website. Competing under NCAA Division I guidelines within the Big Ten Conference according to its official website, it offers student-athletes opportunities for competition, growth, and academic achievement according to its official website.
The program is led by head coach Mike Small according to its official website as an intercollegiate athletic program within the Big Ten Conference according to its official website.
Looking ahead, Illinois will participate in an NCAA regional tournament beginning May 18 as part of their eighteenth consecutive postseason appearance under Small’s leadership.
