CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Former Illini Mary Ellen Murphy Martin was a four-time letterwinner (1980-83) that excelled on and off the course. She was top average stroke leader among the Orange and Blue from 1980-83, ending her senior year with a 77.83. The Itasca, Ill. native won two tournaments during her career – Illinois Invitational (April 25-26, 1980) and Iowa Invitational (April 21-23, 1983). The three-time AIAW All-State honoree finished 97th as an individual at the 1983 NCAA Championships and earned 1981-82 AIAW All-Region honors. Across all sports, Murphy Martin also won the 1982-83 Dike Eddleman Female Athlete of the Year and was a three-time George Huff winner (1980-1983).
After graduation, Murphy Martin earned the 1982-83 NCAA Postgraduate scholarship and went to Northwestern Physical Therapy School for her graduate degree. She resides in Winfield, Ill. and is a physical therapist at Athletico Physical Therapy. She has been married to her college sweetheart, Duane, for 35 years. They have a daughter and son – Becca (Class of 2008 at UI) and Kyle. Both are also proud grandparents to Sawyer (3), Henley (2), and Barrett (1 month).
Why you chose Illinois?
I was recruited by Paula Smith. I liked it the minute I stepped on campus. It presented the opportunity to play golf at a Big Ten school and receive a terrific education.
What is your favorite team memory?
There are so many...the first one to come to mind was getting snowed in at a Duke tournament in North Carolina. We had driven there in an RV and had to wait until roads were clear enough to head home. Having to play golf while it was snowing and then building a snowman the next day made for a great memory.
What was your favorite campus spot?
IMPE, the intramural building.
How did the University of Illinois prepare you for your career?
It provided a platform to become a critical thinker and learn how to collaborate to accomplish goals. After I graduated from Illinois, I received a NCAA postgraduate scholarship, thanks in part to Dr. Kahrs, then Illinois Women's Athletic Director. I was able to attend Northwestern Physical Therapy School where I received my Physical Therapy degree.
What has been the most valuable lesson you learned from your time at Illinois?
Discipline, hard work, and commitment to a goal will reap rewards.
How did the U of I help you grow during your college journey (golf, academics, personal)?
My golf game improved each year of college. I grew intellectually and was greatly challenged in my academics. I was grateful for the availability of tutors who helped me as a student athlete do well in the classroom. Personally, I grew spiritually as I got involved in a Christian Campus Ministry.
How has the alumni network impacted your experience during your time on campus and following graduation?
They have kept me updated on current events at the university. They've provided opportunities to come back to campus, relive the wonderful memories and root for our current teams.
How did being a member of the Illinois women's golf team impact you?
Allowed me to have that sense of belonging we all desire. It molded me as leader and allowed me to discover gifts, abilities and passions. It also was a blessing to play golf at wonderful places and gave me an appreciation for travel.
How would you describe your relationship with your teammates and coaches?
I loved my team and the overall experience of being part of a team. Even though golf is considered an individual sport, the bonding as a team is what made my time so special. Coach Paula always had our backs, helping us navigate the challenge of keeping up with studies while being "all there" for golf as well. Two of my teammates remain some of my closest friends.
What skills did you gain/develop by being an Illini student-athlete?
Time management, Personal responsibility, self-confidence, leadership
What do you miss most from your time on campus?
I miss campus life, the constant buzz of activities as well as the focus on learning. I enjoyed being a student-athlete.
What advice would you like to share with our current team members?
These are pivotal years of self-discovery. There is no other time like it in life. I'm sure you're enjoying it now. You will come to appreciate it more and more as the years fly by. Savor the experience.
What items are on your bucket list?
Play golf in Scotland
When was the last time you were on campus?
Last year for a football game
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