Mike Small Head Coach | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Mike Small Head Coach | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
The Fighting Illini men's golf team has emerged victorious at the NCAA Stanford Regional, securing a spot in the upcoming 2024 NCAA Championship. The team's success was driven by standout performances from its members, including freshman Max Herendeen, who claimed his first collegiate victory.
"This was a total team effort, from top to bottom," stated head coach Mike Small. "Illinois golf has always prided itself on each man doing his job, and this was a perfect example of that. Three players in the top 10, with Max winning. It was solid all the way around."
This win marks Illinois' sixth regional title under Small's leadership since 2013. Herendeen's individual triumph makes him the fifth Illini to earn an NCAA Regional Medalist honor for the program.
"This is just another step and progression towards our yearly goals," added Small. "We'll enjoy this as a team, and then get ready for the next piece of the puzzle in a week and half."
Illinois finished with a team score of 804 (-36), defeating top-seeded Florida State by eight strokes. This achievement ensures their participation in their 15th NCAA Championship out of the last 16 tournaments since 2008.
Herendeen maintained his lead throughout the event despite competition from several players, including teammate Tyler Goecke. He concluded with a three-round score of 197 (-13), tying for second-lowest in program history.
"Max keeps improving and growing," Small commented. "He handled himself like a champion all day today, and he deserved to hold the title at the end."
In addition to Herendeen's performance, Goecke finished tied for fifth place with a score of 200 (-10). Sophomore Ryan Voois also delivered an impressive final round to secure a top-10 finish.
Senior Piercen Hunt and junior Jackson Buchanan ended their runs tied for 28th and 34th respectively after consistent performances throughout the tournament.
Behind Illinois and Florida State, Texas A&M, SMU, Stanford, and Ben Warian of Minnesota also advanced to compete at the NCAA Championship scheduled for May 24-29 at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad, California.
For ongoing updates on Fighting Illini men's golf news, fans are encouraged to visit FightingIllini.com or follow @IlliniMGolf on social media platforms including Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
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