The University of Illinois Fighting Illini men’s golf team finished the opening day of the Augusta Haskins Award Invitational in tenth place at 14-under par on April 4. The team posted consecutive rounds of 281, with two players, sophomore Jake Birdwell and junior Dane Huddleston, tied for 22nd individually at five under par.
This tournament is one of several fall and spring events that provide competitive experience for the student-athletes, according to the official website. Participation in such tournaments allows athletes to develop their skills and represent their university on a national stage.
Birdwell and Huddleston each recorded scores of 70 in the first round and improved with a score of 69 in the second round. Senior Ryan Voois is one stroke behind them, tied for 31st after shooting a combined four under par through two rounds. Junior Max Herendeen is even-par after two rounds, while sophomore Freddie Turnell sits three over par.
The program enhances athletic heritage at the University of Illinois while promoting values like team spirit and individual excellence, according to the official website. Competing under National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I guidelines within the Big Ten Conference provides student-athletes with avenues for competition, growth, and academic achievement as reported by the official website.
Head coach Mike Small leads Illinois men’s golf as it operates as an intercollegiate athletic program within its conference structure according to information from its official site. Round three will begin Sunday morning with tee times starting at 8 a.m. Eastern Time.
Looking ahead, live scoring updates will be available on Clippd Scoreboard as teams compete in Sunday’s final round.
