June 8, 1999

Two Illini golfers, Nell Macke (Marshall, Ill.) from the women's team and Mark Henderson (Barrie, Ontario) from the men's squad, have been honored for their academic performance during the past year. Both players earned a spot on the National Golf Coaches Association All-Scholar Team.

Henderson carries a 3.32 in finance and was recognized as a men's golf scholar athlete at the banquet prior to the NCAA Championships in Minnesota last week. A four time letterwinner, Henderson finished his career with a 16th place finish at the NCAA Championships and he was only one stroke out of 15th which would have earned the senior All-America recognition.

"It is very rewarding for a coach to see student-athletes rewarded for their academic performance," Head Coach Ed Beard said. "Mark has worked hard in the classroom and it is great to see him receive this honor."

Macke, a junior majoring in finance, recorded a perfect 4.0 in the spring semester and has an overall grade point average of 3.92. She has never received a "B" but one "A-" has kept her G.P.A. from being perfect.

"Nell has shown a great deal of dedication both on the golf course and in the classroom," Head Coach Paula Smith said. "With all our travel during the spring semester it is very impressive for a student-athlete to receive a 4.0."

Both Macke and Henderson are two-time members of the NGCA All-Scholar Team. Each was also named to the Big Ten Spring Academic All-Conference team. Women's golf team member Christine Scott (Lockport, Ill.) was also an academic all-Big Ten selection.