Dec. 9, 2004
By Maggie Hughes
Staff Writer

When Joe Demory began his golf career at St. Ambrose almost four years ago, he never would have guessed he would eventually become one of the most celebrated athletes in St. Ambrose University history. 

Being one of the top six golfers as a freshman on the SAU men’s golf team was an achievement in itself, but that was just the beginning of his successful career.  Through hard work, determination and drive Demory has become a phenomenal golfer while proving to be a great leader and teammate as well.

In 2002 at the NAIA Men’s National Tournament Demory was named All-Tournament player as a sophomore.  The following year at nationals he was again named an All-Tournament player as well as an NAIA All-American.  He was named Midwest Classic Conference Player of the Year as a freshman, and this year was named MCC and NAIA Region VII Player of the Year.  As if this isn’t enough, the 2005 NAIA National Tournament will be held this May in Kansas City, giving Demory yet another chance to shine.

With little space left on his trophy shelf, Demory says his game is still improving.

“I was never a prodigy kid,” Demory said.  “I have always worked really hard at my game and I have gotten better every year.”

According to the men’s golf coach, Jeff Griebel, Demory’s golf spikes will be hard to fill. 

“Joe will be sorely missed.  He is one of the best I’ve ever coached,” the 16-time Region VII Coach of the Year said.  “As a well respected, team oriented player, Joe was beneficial to me as well as his fellow players.  His work ethic and positive approach to the game have made my job much easier.” 

Demory’s success and leadership will leave a shadow for his younger teammates to follow. 

“Everything about Joe makes him a perfect role model for the younger guys,” said Griebel.

Along with hard work, Demory credits his coach and teammates to his success.

“I’ve been lucky for the teammates I’ve had,” said Demory.  “I have learned something different from the different characters and personalities on my team, and developed some great friendships.”

Demory holds Coach Griebel responsible for his success as well.  He says that Griebel’s unique understanding of golf and the way he relates to his players is what makes him a fantastic coach.

“Coach Griebel teaches his players on a personal level, based on individual strengths and weaknesses,” Demory said.  “He gets to know each player, and that is something that has always helped me.”

An all-round SAU athlete, Demory also spends time as a volunteer.  Demory is a general accounting major and a volunteers for V.I.T.A, Volunteer Income Tax Assistants, a program where the volunteers do taxes for people in the community.  He is also a volunteer through SAU’s campus ministry.

As one of SAU’s most highly recognized athletes, Demory represents SAU on a national athletic level.  He is respected all over the country.  Just recently he was ranked the #18 golfer in the country at any collegiate level, including the NCAA.

As Demory’s college career slowly completes itself, there are still many challenges ahead of him.  As for his future, Demory says he will continue to play a lot of golf.

“I hope to someday make a professional tournament,” Demory said.  “Making money in the game of golf is easier said than done, but I’m going to give it a try.”

This upcoming summer Demory says he will play in mini professional tournaments in his hometown, Sterling, IL, and when the winter comes, travel to Phoenix or Florida to continue competing.

“I don’t believe I have peaked yet.  I will reflect and be proud of my SAU career, but it doesn’t end here,” said Demory.

With his optimistic outlook and drive for success, things look good for Demory in his future.

There is no doubt Joe Demory will be in the SAU record books for his success as a golfer, but it is the mark he has left on his coaches, teammates and fans that will truly be remembered.  For he is a true representation of an SAU student-athlete and will be missed after his graduation this coming May.

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