March 17, 2009

Today marks the next in a series of profiles on the University of South Carolina men’s and women’s golf teams. Our featured golfer for this week is sophomore Chris Piumelli.

Chris is a graduate of Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School in Vero Beach, Fla., and attended the David Leadbetter Golf Academy after earning all-state honors for his high school team. He turned in numerous top finishes on the junior circuit, including a fourth-place showing at the 2007 AJGA Birks and Mayors Junior Championship and a runner-up finish at the International Junior Golf Tour Mizuon East Coach Mid-Season Championship in 2007. He won the 2006 IJGT event at The Rookery with a final-round 68, and he also competed for Team USA in the Junior EuroCup in St. Andrews, Scotland.

What has been your proudest moment as a Gamecock?

My proudest moment as a Gamecock was when three of my teammates and I traveled and competed in the Southeastern Amateur representing the University with four individual top-10 finishes. It was a great team experience.

What convinced you to come to school at USC in the first place?

The opportunity provided through the coaches and the facilities to elevate my game to the next level. Attending a University in the Southeastern conference provides me with a great education as well as being part of a great collegiate conference.

What are you most looking forward to in your USC career?

I am looking forward to taking the University of South Carolina’s golf program to the next level. As a team, we have the ability to win a National Championship and we all work extremely hard to make ourselves and our team better. I am looking forward to graduating with a Business degree in Finance.

What are you most excited about regarding the upcoming spring season?

Elevating my game individually and taking our team to new heights.

Describe your “perfect” day (whether it involves golf or not).

My perfect day would most definitely include golf, exercise, and entertainment. I value spending time with friends and family.

Favorite course you’ve ever played? (Why?)

I played a junior golf tournament at Pebble Beach. The golf course was beautiful yet dangerously difficult. It was one of the most enjoyable weekends that I was lucky enough to spend with my family.

Most memorable round of golf (USC or otherwise)?

My most memorable round of golf was my second round in the Eastern Amateur this recent summer. I played very well following up a first round 69 with a nearly flawless second round 65. I remember the many memorable shots I played throughout that round.

To which pro golfer would you compare your game?

I would compare my game to Padraig Harrington. He plays toward his strengths and is creative yet manages his game well. He is one of the best short iron and wedge players on tour.

Who is your favorite golfer to watch compete?

I enjoy watching Tiger Woods compete because he stays in golf tournaments with his mental game and competitive knowledge. He hits the shots he needs to when necessary, and he is the #1 golfer in the world.

What is your best shot/skill?

My best skill is my short iron play and my wedge distance control. I try to give myself as many of these shots as possible to maximize my birdie opportunities.

How do Coach McDonald and Coach Blackmon inspire you?

Coach McDonald and Coach Blackmon are very inspirational. Coach McDonald played collegiately and professionally, providing us with the knowledge and understanding from a player’s perspective. Coach Blackmon has coached countless tour professionals. He has the knowledge to make players prepare to play great.