Redshirt senior Alex Burge has had quite the history with Fighting Illini men's golf so far in his career. Burge has helped the Illini to three NCAA Championship appearances and was recently named the inaugural Tom Cousins Award recipient at the East Lake Cup. Get to know a little bit about Burge, while he and the Illini prepare for a challenging spring slate. 

Burge receiving the Tom Cousins Award at the 2015 East Lake Cup. 

What are you studying and why did you choose that major?

"I'm currently pursuing my masters in sports management, and I received my undergraduate degree in entrepreneurship. I like the combination of knowing how to run a company and combining sports with that." 

Besides golf and academics, how do you spend your?

"I have a road bicycle that I ride through Champaign and the surrounding areas, and spending time with friends during downtime." 

How did you learn to play golf?

"I learned by tagging along at the golf course with my father when he would play."

What is your favorite thing about the sport of golf?

"The combination of physical and mental requirements is unlike any other sport, everyday presents new challenges"

What is your favorite course to play?

"Whichever course I can make a lot of birdies on."

Who is your favorite professional golfer and why?

"Thomas Pieters and Luke Guthrie, they are both close friends of mine and two people I admire for their hard work. Oh yeah, and they are ILLINI!"

What does the Illinois Golf Tradition mean to you?

"The Illini Golf Tradition is something special and it is an honor to be a part of and contribute to its continued growth. It means everything to me because it truly is such a family and large network of Illini who care."

What's in the bag?

Driver: Taylormade SLDR 9*

Woods: Titleist 915F 13.5*

Irons: Wilson FG Tour V4

Putter: Bettinardi BB0

Ball: Titleist ProV1-X

A young Alex Burge