Lia Biehl Lukkarinen was a two-time All-Big Ten performer for the Illini in the 1989-90 and '90-91 seasons, as well as a three-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree and a WGCA All-American Scholar. After her collegiate career, she played on the Futures Tour (now the Symetra Tour), earning a victory at Railside Golf Club in Gibson City, Illinois, in 1994. She played a full season in the LPGA, competing in the 1994 Women's U.S. Open.
Lukkarinen is now the Director of Golf at Western Illinois University, coaching both the men's and women's teams and running golf operations at the university's course while teaching a sports management class one night a week. In her 15th season as the head coach of the Leatherneck women's golf team, she is one of three females in the country who serve as a Director of Golf at a university.
A native of Oakwood, Illinois, Lukkarinen majored in finance at Illinois. She and her husband, Dr. Mike Lukkarinen, have two children - Connor, 16, and Kathryn, 12.
I chose Illinois because: It was the only place I wanted to go to school – I grew up going to games!
Favorite team memory: There are many – a standout is my first round of golf with Scottish teammates Brenda and Allison!
Favorite campus spot: The Alma Mater – best graduation picture site.
How did the University of Illinois prepare you for your career? The academic rigor prepared me very well for the business side of being a PGA professional.
What has been the most valuable lesson you learned from your time at Illinois? Determination in all situations.
How did the U of I help you grow during your college journey (golf, academics, personal)? Illinois was a big adjustment for me in terms of exposure to many different cultures, it helped open my eyes to the world and appreciate others.
How has the alumni network impacted your experience during your time on campus and following graduation? I have made many connections and run into alumni on nearly all my travels.
How did being a member of the Illinois Women's Golf Team impact you? It gave me the confidence to pursue golf as a career.
How would you describe your relationship with your teammates and coaches? Fantastic comradery and friendships. I have come to appreciate Coach Paula Smith even more now that I am coaching.
What skills did you gain/develop by being an Illini student-athlete? As an SA you learn to handle adversity on and off the course, it makes you stronger in all areas of your life.
What do you miss most from your time on campus? Being around so many Illini!
What advice would you like to share with our current team members? Control the controllables and enjoy every moment!
Top item on my bucket list: Playing St. Andrews
Last time you were on campus? Summer 2019
