June 28, 2008
NORMAL, Ill. -
Illinois State junior golfer Joe Emerich has been named the recipient of the 2008 D.A. Weibring Endowed Scholarship. Emerich earned the scholarship for his ability to balance the demands he faces, both academically and athletically.
The junior enjoyed success on the course last season with five top-20 finishes, including a top-10 tally at the D.A. Weibring Intercollegiate. Emerich set a course record during the opening round of the Weibring Intercollegiate with a 7-under-par 63, which was tied by teammate Tommy Bliefneck in the final round. Emerich led the team in scoring with a 73.9 average.
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ILLINOIS STATE ATHLETICS ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS |
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"It was really nice to win the award," said Emerich. "I saw previous winners and the impact they had on their team, and I'm honored to have won the award and hope to leave a similar impression."
The Weibring Endowed Scholarship was created in 1994 with proceeds from the D.A. Weibring Redbird Classic. The scholarship is named for the former Redbird golfer who later starred on the PGA Tour and is currently a member of the Champions Tour.
The endowment rewards a Redbird golf student-athlete who excels both in academics and athletics. In 1995, it became the first athletics endowment to become fully funded at Illinois State. In the summer 2007, the Illinois State Board of Trustees approved the renaming of the Illinois State Golf Course to Weibring Golf Club at Illinois State University after Weibring. Emerich is the 13th different Redbird to receive the award.
Head Coach Ray Kralis is excited about next season and feels the best is still to come for Emerich.
"Joe has developed a great deal both physically and mentally since he arrived on campus, and I believe the best is yet to come (for him)." said Kralis. "He has put in the work, and is starting the see the rewards of his efforts, while gaining invaluable experience. As he gains more confidence, his potential is unlimited."
The D.A. Weibring Endowed Scholarship is one of 19 endowed scholarships available to Illinois State student-athletes that are funded by private donors. It is also one of the eight fully-endowed scholarships in athletics.
For more information about supporting Illinois State University endowments for student-athletes, call The Redbird Club office at (309) 438-3803.
