Illinois men’s golf is set for a crucial weekend as they compete in the Fallen Oak Collegiate Invitational. This tournament runs from Oct. 19-21 at the prestigious Fallen Oak Golf Course at Beau Rivage Resort in Saucier, Mississippi.
After finishing sixth at the Windon Memorial Classic, the Illini aim to improve their performance in Mississippi. Their last outing featured a strong showing from senior Jackson Buchanan, who finished tied for 10th. He recorded a final score of 212, with a stellar final round of 67.
This year’s Fallen Oak Collegiate Invitational features 13 teams, including five from the SEC ranked within the top 30. Among the competition are No. 2 Ole Miss, No. 5 LSU and No. 22 Mississippi State.
The tournament takes place on the 7,487-yard, par-72 Fallen Oak Course. Designed by renowned architect Tom Fazio, this course is located within the De Soto National Forest. Its reputation as Mississippi’s top course presents a challenging yet beautiful setting for collegiate golf.
The tournament includes 18 holes over three days. Rounds one and two will start at 9:30 a.m. CT on Saturday and Sunday. The final round will tee off at 8 a.m. CT on Monday.
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This event is new to the Illini’s schedule, making it an exciting opportunity for the players. No member of the current roster has previously played in this tournament. This adds an extra layer of anticipation for the team as they seek to make their mark on the Fallen Oak course.
The Illini lineup for the tournament includes Buchanan, sophomores Max Herendeen and Ethan Wilson, freshman Trey Marrion and junior Ryan Voois. Freshman Jake Birdwell will also compete as an individual. Herendeen stood out at the Windon Memorial, finishing tied for 15th with a score of 214. His round of 66 was a season-low for the team and crucial to their overall performance.
Following this tournament, Illinois will head to the Steelwood Collegiate Invitational on Oct. 26-27. Hosted by South Alabama at Steelwood Country Club in Loxley, Alabama, this event will wrap up the fall schedule for the Illini.
The Illini are poised for a strong performance this weekend. With a combination of talent, determination and the desire for improvement, they aim to leave their mark on this new venue. As they tee off this weekend, all eyes will be on the Illini as they seek to make a statement on the national stage.
@Jordan_Goodhart
