Alex Eickhoff Finishes Second at Illinois State Amateur

Strong Consistency Yields Runner‑Up Spot

Alex Eickhoff posted a 4‑under 68 on Thursday and closed with an even‑par 71, finishing the three‑day, four‑round Illinois State Amateur at Crestwicke Country Club 1‑over 285. He tied with Bloomington’s Logan Stauffer and sits just behind Chicago’s Charlie Kulwin, who held the only sub‑par total at 2‑under 282. The performance caps a balanced effort for Eickhoff, who carded 74 (+3) on Tuesday and 73 (+2) on Wednesday before the final round.

Local Roots and Tournament History

Eickhoff, a 2020 Hillsboro High School graduate, earned The State Journal‑Register’s Small School Boys Golfer of the year honors twice during his high school career. He played two seasons for the University of Minnesota before transferring to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he continues to develop his game. His best round of 68 was highlighted by a stretch of nine consecutive birdies early in the third round.

Other Area Performers

Springfield’s Charles Hoogland made the cut and finished 7‑over 291, sharing 20th place, while Jacksonville’s Brady Kaufmann was 8‑over 292 for 25th. Both golfers demonstrated the depth of competitive talent emerging from the coverage area. The last local champion from the newspaper’s region was Jay Davis, a Jacksonville Routt graduate who captured the title in 1991 and 1992.

Youth Golf Spotlight: Drysdale Tournament

On the same day, the 89th annual Drysdale Junior Golf Tournament at Bunn Golf Course showcased 16 promising players, ranging in age from 14 to 17. Notables such as Kendyl Mudd of Jacksonville, Max Fisher of Sherman, and Josalyn Murphy of Chatham appeared in the photo gallery that follows. The event provides a crucial pipeline for the region’s future professionals, and the variety of participants underscores its community impact.

Future Outlook for Regional Golf

Eickhoff’s runner‑up finish signals a return to form for a golfer who has been consistent in state competition. If the trend continues, he could be a contender for the title next year, especially given the strong field depth displayed at the Illinois State Amateur. Meanwhile, the enthusiasm shown at the Drysdale tournament suggests that the next generation is ready to fill the void left by past champions like Jay Davis.