Stemper steps up at state golf

By Mike Ramczyk

Sports Editor

All his life, Catholic Central junior Jeff Stemper dreamed of playing at the state golf tournament.

When he got his chance Monday and Tuesday at University Ridge Golf Course in Verona, the junior got better with each stroke.

Stemper followed up an 85 on Monday with a 79 Tuesday to finish the two-day event tied for 16^th place in the state in Division 3.

Not too bad for your first time.

“Overall, Jeff was on top of his game,” said Catholic Central golf coach Matt DeLorme. “His score by far does not represent how well he was striking the ball. This being Jeff’s first time at state and the significance of the moment got to him. The whole event was a mental struggle for Jeff, although the experience and knowledge that he gained from both days was something that will lead him well into the future.​”

On day two, Stemper managed a 7-over par despite shooting a 9 on the par-5, 535-yard ninth hole.

Stemper landed two birdies and five bogeys Tuesday, and he finished with a solid 38 on the back-nine.

On Monday, Stemper struggled with two double bogeys.

“​On the second day Jeff play true to his game besides a small slip up on 18,” DeLorme said. “Going into this tournament, I told Jeff that my expectations for him was to simply gain respect from the field and put your best foot forward. As a coach I did not expect him to come home a state champion, however, he without a doubt has the skills, knowledge and work ethic of a state champion.”

Stemper is the first Topper golfer to reach state in at least 10 years, according to DeLorme. DeLorme said Stemper was disappointed with his results, but Stemper’s preparation and poise on the state’s biggest stage were admirable.

“After following him for Sunday’s practice round, I would have predicted that he would have shot in the low 70s on both days, and he would probably tell you the same. Jeff was definitely disappointed in the way he played, but he also understands that the experience he gained from the past few days will do wonders for him in the future.”

DeLorme said Stemper’s leadership, work ethic, maturity and outgoing personality have done wonders for the golf program.

Stemper leads by example, and DeLorme said the team wouldn’t be where it is today without him.

The Toppers made sectionals as a team this season. DeLorme said the group found ways to improve every aspect of its game through each individual.

The Toppers should make even more noise next season.

“​The outlook for golf at Catholic Central is very bright,” DeLorme said. “Jeff returns next year to help lead a very young team made up of mostly sophomores and juniors and some promising incoming freshman.”