STC CUP
History of STC Cup
History of STC Cup
2015 STC Cup Recap - The first STC Cup of the new regime was one for the history books. The Venue at Sea Pines provided drama, great manicured courses, unbelievable staff, challenging elements, memorable wild life, world class boat drinks and food. Through two days of competition the standings were tight. Following the Saturday morning round Team Luxury built a considerable 3 point lead that all involved felt would be insurmountably, that is all but Team Heart. Team Luxury front and back loaded their lineup with the big guns in an effort to decide the Cup early in the Single matches. As the sun began to set in the west and after four plus hours of heated Cup competition the outcome was still in doubt. Team Heart made a serious charge winning multiple outgoing matches and anchor matches to draw the event to all square. With two groups left on the tract it became evident that yet again the Cup would be decided on the 18th green. With the Cuppers lining the tee boxes anxiously awaiting the outcome of these final two heavy weight bouts the remaining competitors placed their pegs in the ground knowing the next 20 minutes would determine the fate of the 2016 STC Cup. Match one of the final two matches was between Cup veterans Charles Dunstan and Brian Taylor, match two was between grinders Drew Daniel and Jonathan Adams. Drew Daniel and Jonathan Adams tee'd off on the 18th with Mr. Daniel 1 up. After some well placed shots each competitor found themselves just off the 18th green. This is where we had a first in STC Cup competition, mother nature felt that it was her time to get involved in the action. Mr. Adams approached his Nike Ball just off the back of the 18th green. Out of nowhere, like a college kid at a high school party, a 10' gator slowly approached Mr. Adams and his ball. Four days of competition, night life, cheap perfume and over consumption fortunately did not impair Mr. Adams judgement, he kept his composure and slowly retreated from his ball...the Gator did not. With the calmness of a vertically restricted male gymnast the Gator stoically placed Mr. Adams ball in it's mouth and began retreating to the lagoon. The ordeal was over and all were alright...that was until one Team Heart member decided to go straight Man vs Wild, following a couple regrips and two back aways Mr. Sheffield did a full on aerial assault towards the tail of the gator in an effort to retrieve the golf ball. While courageous the ball retrieval was unsuccessful. Mr. Adams proceeded with a free drop and the hole was pushed giving Mr. Daniel the much needed victory for Team Luxury. The table was set, it now came down to the final twosome on the course, Mr. Taylor and Mr. Dunstan...Mr. Dunstan tee'd off on the final hole 1 up. After a few well placed shots Mr. Taylor found himself 40 yards from the green. Following one of the best stroked Texas wedges in singles match history Mr. Taylor was staring down a 30 footer for bogey which he confidently nestled next to the Cup to secure a Net Five. The scene was set in all it's glory with Mr. Dunstan standing in the shadow of the famed Sea Pines Clubhouse with the ocean breeze lightly cooling down the sunset stained green. With calm short steps Mr. Dunstan addressed the 20' putt he had to seal the victory and the fate for Team Heart and these two greenhorn captains. Like he has done on many occasions before he wiped his brow, took a short and swift practice stroke and rolled it dead in the center for the win securing the 2015 STC Cup for Team Heart. Hail to the CUP and hail to the CUPPERS that sacrifice time away from their family and jobs each year to partake in this esteemed event.
2014 STC Cup Recap - Possibly the greatest STC Cup to date, the playoff!!! Team Heart comes out victorious, after battling the rain and cart paths for three days the Cup found itself tied at 15-15. The Captains selected two representatives from each team to compete on hole #1 of the playoff. The drama was epic and the roars were heard around Lake Lure when Mr. Patrick drained a snake of a putt for a 5/4 to win the Cup. Thanks to the great Rumbling Bald Resort hospitality and accommodations there is no doubt that the true winner of the 2014 event was the STC Cup.
2013 STC Cup Recap - Team Heart Repeats!!!! The 2013 STC Cup hosted by the Legends Resort at Myrtle Beach did not disappoint, viewers would say that this was one of the most dramatic Cups in recent history. When the smoke settled and the final dollar bills hit the stage Team Heart had prevailed victorious. In the Cup's infant voyage to Myrtle Beach there was little known how this group of warriors would manage themselves, their body's and their golf games. Sleep deprived, cash broke, anxiety gauge at 10/10, dehydrated, portable speakers fully charged and boat drinks in hand every last damn one of them brought their absolute A game. Scroll down to read the full Cup Recap and match breakdowns.
2012 STC Cup Recap - Team Heart rolls away from the 2012 STC Cup victorious, Team Heart deserved this championship and will continue to be a great ambassador of the STC Cup as the 2012 STC Cup Champion. Stay tuned for the final news and write-ups on the 2012 STC Cup.
TEAM HEART '12
2012 STC Cup Pre-Cup News - The Draft is complete and the 2012 STC Cup teams are finalized. Team Heart, led by Captain Leverett, will field a formidable lineup. The 2012 Team Heart team will be Matt Griffin, Josh Pinson, Brock Patrick, Jonathan Adams, Bubba Helton, Warren Morris, and Trey Hargrove. The 2012 Team Luxury squad, led by Captain Rivers, includes Matt Martin, Travis Wright, Drew Daniel, Charles Dunstan, Matt Mills, Brad Shingler, and Brian Taylor. The draft went down Thursday, May 31, 2012, all participants are salivating at the opportunity to secure the first point for their respective squad in the upcoming STC Cup. Tape up the ankles, slide the brass knuckles in the golf bag, load up your flask, sharpen your blades, and make sure your portable speakers are fully operational because this is going to be a flat out street fight.
The boys look to once again tame Cold Mountain as the Cup is heading to Canton, NC...venue, Sprindgale CC. The participants will enjoy a practice round on Thursday, July 19 at Brights Creek Golf course in Hendersonville, NC. Some serious Cup action will take place Thursday night as the STC Cup participants handle the anxiety the pending competition ahead. The 2012 STC Cup will follow the same format as previous Cups, Four Ball on Friday morning followed by a newly added favorite, the Shootout, Saturday will constist of another round of Four Ball in the AM followed by Alternate Shot in the PM. The lights will be shining brightest on Sunday as the boys dig in for the Singles matches. The 2012 STC Cup will come to fruition on Sunday afternoon, July 22, 2012.
2012 is here, with all the failed New Years resolutions and broken traditions there is one thing we can all rely on, the STC CUP. More news on this unmatched tradition to follow...stay tuned Cuppers, stay tuned.
August 2011 - The 2011 Cup returned to Fripp Island for what many labeled, Collision at the Coast, this was the first Cup under new captainship. Both Captain Leverett and Captain Rivers led
their squads admirably setting personal interest and rivalries aside embracing their distinguished rolls as team captains. Gamesmanship was at an all time high in the months, days, and hours leading up to the 2011 STC Cup. After three days of debauchery, boat drinks, frothies, ass showing, beach storming and good ole fashion STC Cup heated competition Team Luxury, made up of Captain Rivers, Warren Morris, Matt Griffin, Travis Wright, Jim Cely, Bubba Helton, Jonathan Adams, and Josh Pinson returned to the Garden City with the Cup in tow. This was Team Luxury's third STC Cup. Today the overall STC Cup record stands at three championship having been won by Team Luxury and two championships having been won by Team Heart.TEAM LUXURY '11 TEAM HEART '11
In 2009 the STC Cup made its way down I-26 to the South Carolina Low Country where the soft spikes fell on Fripp Island. Under the leadership of Captain Brock Patrick Team Heart walked away from the beaches of South Carolina victorious, this was the first Cup won by Team Heart. In 2010 the STC Cup nobly ascended the great Blue Ridge Mountains to the site of the inaugural STC Cup, Springdale Country Club. After three days of gang tackling, bloody noses, scotch whiskey and a few birdies Team Heart, lead by Captain Patrick, resurrected from the depths of defeat and pulled off the largest comeback in STC Cup history. Following the 2010 STC Cup Captains Brock Patrick and Bubba Helton stepped down from the positions they so admirably held since the inception of the STC Cup. Beginning with the 2011 STC Cup the four year captainship positions were passed on with honor to Michael Leverett and David Rivers. Michael Leverett to captain Team Heart and David Rivers to captain Team Luxury for STC Cup's 2011 through 2014. Will this change result in the slow death of The Cup, will the book be closed and laid to the side only to gather dust or will the men of this great tradition rise to the occasion, unify, and charge ahead overtaking lush tracts of land across this great country and abroad as if these will be the last tees we place in the ground, the last drive we stripe down the sprinkler line, the last beer to be shotgunned, and the last HEAD BUTT - HIGH FIVE - HELL YEA - DAMN RIGHT - WE'VE DONE IT!
STC Members
MICHAEL LEVERETT
* Team Heart Captain 2011 - 2014
STC Cup Record: 20-14-4
STC Cups Won: 5
Cups Participated In: 9
Captained STC Cup Championships: 3
College: Augusta State University
Index: 4.4
Irons: Cleveland CG1's
Liquid of Choice: Well Bourbon
Bio: Mr. Leverett resides in Augusta, GA and is married to Julia Blake. Mr. Leverett plays out of Augusta Country Club. In 2012 Mr. Leverett had the unfortunate fate of putting his fierce SOB Palmer to rest in May and dedicated the 2012 Team Heart campaign to his beloved friend. The Maltese angel came through as Mr. Leverett led Team Heart to an STC Cup Championship in 2012. Mr. Leverett chose to donate $10 per birdie for every STC Cup participant for the research of why men’s golf trips make for a stronger marriage. Mr. Leverett proudly states that the STC Cup is a privilege and to always remember, "When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive - to breathe, to think to enjoy, to love, and be a part of the STC Cup." Mr. Leverett looks forward to leading Team Heart the two next years.
DAVID RIVERS
* Team Luxury Captain 2011 - 2014
STC Cup Record: 15-16-7
STC Cups Won: 3
Cups Participated In: 9
Captained STC Cup Championships: 1
College: University of Virginia
Index: 4.4
Irons: TaylorMade RocketBladz Tour
Liquid of Choice: no preference other than "I'll take Two"
Bio: Mr. Rivers currently lives in Augusta, GA. He is married to Casey Rivers and they have three young children...all of which embrace and support their father's passion for the STC Cup. Mr. Rivers plays out of Augusta Country Club. Mr. Rivers is second to only Mr. Wright as it relates to his uncanny ability to stay hydrated on the Golf Course. Mr. Rivers says he refuses to choose any one STC Cup moment over the other...like a good Chuck Norris film, they should all be cherished and held on a pedestal though one of his more favorite Cups was having the opportunity to Captain Team Luxury to the STC Cup victory in 2011.
MATT GRIFFIN
STC Cup Record: 14-18-6
STC Cups Won: 3
Cups Participated In: 9
College: Georgia Southern University
Index: 6.9
Irons: Titleist 735cm
Liquid of Choice: Scotch Whiskey
Bio: Mr. Griffin is married to Mandy Griffin, he has two children, Brantley and Lauren-Kate. The STC Cup is his favorite sporting event of the year. As to what the STC Cup means to him, he'd put it up with the birth of his children as to what it means. He thoroughly enjoys the fierce competition between two foes that love to play some good golf and pound some chilly bricks together. To Mr. Griffin there are four pillars as to which he lives by, Family, God, Scotch Whiskey, and THE CUP...other than that, everything else is secondary.
MATT MARTIN
STC Cup Record: 20-11-7
STC Cups Won: 4
Cups Participated In: 9
College: Clemson University
Index: 7.5
Irons: Cleveland CG7's
Liquid of Choice: Vodka and Miller Light (obviously served ICE COLD)
Bio: Mr. Martin is married to Amanda Martin and they have three children, James Martin Jr., Briggs Martin, and Darby Martin. Mr. Martin plays out of Augusta Country Club. He firmly believes that the STC Cup is hands down the best golf trip in the universe, a perfect blend of competition and comradery. Mr. Martin's favorite STC Cup moment has to be the finish at the 2008 Cup at Mount Mitchell, where the legend of Ice Man began. (for more background on the '08 Cup reference 2008 STC Cup under "Previous STC Cups")
BUBBA HELTON
* Team Luxury Captain 2007 - 2010
STC Cup Record: 14-13-7
STC Cups Won: 6
Cups Participated In: 8
Captained STC Cup Championships: 2
College: University of South Carolina
Index: 15
Irons: Titleist AP2's
Liquid of Choice: Miller Light (Vortex only)
Bio: Mr. Helton grew up in Spartanburg, SC. He married the beautiful Margaret Helton and moved across the Savannah River.
Mr. Helton has two children - Jack and Hamp Helton. He feels that the Cup is a storied tradition that breeds fierce competition and love for the game of golf...the friendships and the bonds made through this event stand the test of time. Mr. Helton's favorite STC Cup moments are remembering the words of Brock Patrick "We have won the Cup!" as Matt Martin's beautiful shot sails over a giant tree and lands near the hole with an echoing roar heard throughout Burnsville, NC. He also enjoyed Schell Butler backing down the driveway at Mount Mitchell, Johnny Adams violently shaking a golf cart in disgust, a sheriff coming after BT on the back nine at Springdale, and the bar scene at Fripp Island. Mr. Helton's worst moment had to be when he caught the shanks at Secession and Fripp Island. To get a glimpse into Mr. Helton's STC Cup mind set please follow this link...www.Bubba'sMind.com
BROCK PATRICK* Team Heart Captain 2007 - 2010
STC Cup Record: 23-10-5
STC Cups Won: 5
Cups Participated In: 9
Captained STC Cup Championships: 2
College: Georgia Southern University
Index: 12.7
Irons: Titleist AP2
Liquid of Choice: Boones Farm
Bio: Mr. Patrick's has three true loves, the STC Cup and his two boys. Mr. Patrick plays wherever there is a match to be had. He has many favorite cup moments and feels guilty picking ones for this write-up, kind of like picking your favorite Golden Girl. His number one moment has to be winning his first ever STC Cup in 2009 at Fripp Island Resort, number two would be the infamous alternate shot miscalculation at the 2010 Cup during the match between Rivers/ Patrick and Daniel/ Pinson, number three would be Team Heart pulling off the improbable victory at the 2010 Cup with the tournament being sealed by Mr. Patrick draining an eight foot downhill slider against Mr. Shingler to win both the Match and the Cup.
WARREN MORRISSTC Cup Record: 14-10-2
STC Cups Won: 4
Cups Participated In: 6
College: University of Tennessee
Index: 12.9
Irons: Whatever
Liquid of Choice: RC Cola and Wings (not a drink but he loves them nevertheless)
Bio: Mr. Morris is married with two children. He plays out of the country club of clean living. All he does is bring it, bottom line!!! Greatest Cup moment, competing in the 2012 STC Cup three weeks removed from achilles surgery...need I say more!
MATT MILLSSTC Cup Record: 13-15-3
STC Cups Won: 3
Cups Participated In: 7
College: University of Georgia
Index: 12.8
Irons: Titleist AP1
Liquid of Choice: Whiskey
Bio: Mr. Mills, otherwise known as Frank the Tank is a huge fan of the STC Cup. Frank the Tank is married to Mary Ashton and he has two children. Mr. Mills favorite STC Cup moment has to be the final putt he drilled on his Sunday singles opponent in 2010 to change the momentum of the Cup for Team Heart.
TRAVIS WRIGHT* Team Heart Captain 2015 - Present
STC Cup Record: 12-17-6
STC Cups Won: 5
Cups Participated In: 8
Captained STC Cup Championships: 0
College: University of Georgia
Index: 7.2
Irons: Titleist 735cm X-100 Shafts (great for dropping opponents and Natty Lights)
Liquid of Choice: Natural Light
Bio: Mr. Wright has been married to the former Lauren Logan Broadie since 4/27/02. He has two beautiful sons, Travis Earl Wright and Benjamin Logan Wright. As far as the Cup is concerned Mr. Wright confesses that his worst Cup experience is not being able to attend the inaugural event in 2007 due to conflict of a family vacation. He was fortunate enough to be invited back the following year and will never make the mistake again of letting a family vacation interfere with, by far, the most heralded amateur golf event the country has to offer. What Mr. Wright enjoys the most about the STC Cup moments has to be the unbelievable camaraderie that comes along with going to battle with some of the greatest guys that have graced the face of this earth along with leaving all that he has to give on the course at the end of each Cup day.
TREY HARGROVESTC Cup Record: 10-18-10
STC Cups Won: 4
Cups Participated In: 9
College: University of Georgia
Index: 8.7
Irons: Titleist AP1
Liquid of Choice: Cold Bluegills and anything mixed with potato juice
Bio: Mr. Hargrove plays out of Augusta Country Club. He is married with three future STC'ers...Charlie, William, and Sam; that's right, his own foursome. Favorite Cup moments for Mr. Hargrove include pre-tournament practice sessions at the home of the 2010 NCAA National Champions practice facility, shaking down the tiki hut at Fripp Island, shot heard around the world at the second STC Cup (Ice Man), Captain Helton buying all the ProV-1's that the proshop had at Fripp before his final round...little case of the shanks, too many others to mention!!!
JONATHAN ADAMSSTC Cup Record: 12-23-3
STC Cups Won: 6
Cups Participated In: 9
College: University of Mississippi
Index: 20
Irons: Cougar MP Tour
Liquid of Choice: Crown with a fresh lime
Bio: Mr. Adams was born and raised in Augusta, GA. He attended the Academy of Richmond County High School and then went on to the University of Mississippi. There he met his wife Mary Margaret, from Indianola Mississippi. Mr. Adams has two boys, Clayton and Porter. Mr. Adams sharpens his skills at Augusta Country Club. He has not missed an STC Cup nor does he plan to. Mr. Adamss favorite (and only) golf outing of the year is the STC Cup. He feels that the key to his golf game is the Nike golf ball. What Mr. Adams enjoys most about the STC Cup is the camaraderie of 16 great guys and the competition. His favorite STC Cup moment is the 2009 Beach Bar at Fripp Island.
DREW DANIELSTC Cup Record: 17-18-3
STC Cups Won: 0
Cups Participated In: 9
College: College of Charleston
Index: 6.7
Irons: Fourteen
Liquid of Choice: Makers Mark
Bio: Mr. Daniel has participated in all STC Cup's held to date and has a hard time recalling much of what happened at any of them. He is married to Carey Daniel and has three children (Andrew, Baker, Anne Harper) and plays out of Augusta Country Club. With three children getting away for a weekend is quit a challenge for Mr. Daniel. That being said, Carey has a firm grasp on the importance of maintaining the integrity of the Cup, and she is fully supportive of this important event. His fondest STC Cup memory took place during the 2010 Cup. Pinson/ Daniel vs. Rivers/ Patrick...while off to a substantial deficit early, Mr. Pinson and Mr. Daniel felt it was time to make a rally. At the same time, the Rivers/ Patrick combo made the decision to rally an excessive amount of adult beverages. The match was brought back to almost even as this pairing approached the final holes, Mr. Patrick looked at the Pinson/ Daniel duo and said, "we have made a serious miscalculation" (referring to the disproportionate intake of adult beverages and their opponents speedy return back in the match). Nevertheless, Rivers/ Patrick closed the duo out two and one though it remains one of the top Cup memories for Mr. Daniel.
JOSH PINSON* Team Heart Captain 2015 - Present
STC Cup Record: 15-11-5
STC Cups Won: 6
Cups Participated In: 7
Captained STC Cup Championships: 1
College: University of Georgia
Index: 8.6
Irons: Good Looking
Liquid of Choice: Top Shelf
Bio: Why bother. Mr. Pinson says the Cup is great and he cherishes any event that requires a different colored shirt each day. Favorite STC Cup moment? With four kids at the casa Mr. Pinson would enjoy a guys weekend at Gitmo. The typical week for Mr. Pinson includes Monday soccer practices, Tuesday swim meets, Wednesday at the Church, Thursday living up to whatever philanthropic duties he's committed to, Friday closing deals, and the Weekend is typically spent dominating anything Mr. Pinson deems worthy of his domination.
JIM CELY
STC Cup Record: 11-9-2
STC Cups Won: 4
Cups Participated In: 5
College: Georgia Southern University
Index: 6.1
Irons: Titleist AP2 (considering change, entertaining offers)
Liquid of Choice: Natural Light
Bio: Mr. Cely is married (Sarah), no kids, loves the Cup, a great tourney that he looks forward to every year...the competition and fellowship is great. Mr. Cely's home course is Augusta Country Club. He says that his most vivid memory was Brock Patrick spastically celebrating Team Heart's win.
CHARLES DUNSTAN
STC Cup Record: 114-14-3
STC Cups Won: 2
Cups Participated In: 7
College: University of Georgia
Index: 5.2
Irons: Does it Matter
Liquid of Choice: Beer
Bio: Mr. Dunstan is married and plays out of Augusta Country Club. He is the former winner of the prestigious Frick Cup, an annual Club Championship at ACC. Mr. Dunstan in known for his unmatched intensity and self accountability on the golf course.
BRAD SHINGLER
STC Cup Record: 12-14-1
STC Cups Won: 2
Cups Participated In: 6
College: University of Georgia
Index: 11.2
Irons: Titleist Ap2's (Project X Rifle Shafts)
Liquid of Choice: Natural Light, Scotch, Tequila, and Baby Oil...not in that order
Bio: Mr. Shingler was married to his lovely wife Jami, June 5, 2010 and is child free for the moment. He doesn't have a home course but lives a stones throw from Forest Hills Golf Course. He attended Lakeside High and went on to star at the
BRIAN TAYLOR
STC Cup Record: 8-16-1
STC Cups Won: 2
Cups Participated In: 6
College: College of Charleston
Index: 19.1
Irons: Titleist AP2's
Liquid of Choice: An IPA with a lot of hops and ice cold Natty Light
Bio: Mr. Taylor is married to Leslie Brown from Augusta, GA and they have two beautiful children, John and Anna Pierce. Mr. Taylor plays out of Augusta Country Club. Mr. Taylor is making his return to STC Cup competition in 2012 following a three year suspension, said suspension was due to the lack of a criminal record that was brought to the attention of the STC Cup governing body in 2009. His most memorable STC Cup moment is ricocheting a ProV1 off of a Chevy Envoy on the road hole at Springdale in 2007 and still managing to scrape out a par. He and Mr. Helton went on to win the match after being chased down and questioned by a police officer on the closing hole.
ANDY HIGGINS
STC Cup Record: 4-8-3
STC Cups Won: 3
Cups Participated In: 3
College: Ogeechee Technical College
Index: 15
Irons: Twisted Steel and Sex Appeal
Liquid of Choice: Tito Vodka (It's Handmade)
Bio: Mr. Higgins resides in Evans, GA where he was born and raised. Mr. Higgins is married to Emily Higgins, Mrs. Higgins teaches tenth grade English and Coordinate Algebra. The Higgins have two boys, Drew (5) and Reeves (2), both boys seem to be destined for greatness. Mr. Higgins plays out of Champions Retreat. It's no secret that Mr. Higgins has had a deep desire to compete in the STC Cup for years, "I've got my chance, I plan on making the most of it, it's a long way to the top if ya wanna Rock N Roll!", says Mr. Higgins when commenting on STC Cup play. Andy, aka Sassy, looks forward to making new friends and enjoying the opportunity of a lifetime!
NICK SHEFFIELD
STC Cup Record: 5-7-3
STC Cups Won: 2
Cups Participated In: 3
College: University of Georgia
Index: 7.3
Irons: Damn Long
Liquid of Choice: Pink Diet Vodka
Bio: Nicky Cashmere is a playing in his inaugeral STC Cup. Carrying a 6 handicap, Cashmere brings a very respectable golf game to the cup. His competive nature and determination to win will boad him well in this signaficant test. Not to be fooled by his low profile dimensions, this guy can turn on one, son. Long Ball Hitter, Big Like a Pickle, Big Baller are some of the phrases used to describe this man's game. The father of 3 young girls, Cashmere finds the time to beat more balls than any other man at the ACC. A relentless worker that is not afraid to change his grip 3 times in one round (and not afraid to tell you about it) will bring a dimension to the cup that will be appreciate by all.
TYSON DEAL
STC Cup Record: 6-9-0
STC Cups Won: 2
Cups Participated In: 3
College: University of Georgia
Index: 1.3
Irons: Smoothe
Liquid of Choice: TBD
Bio: Now a seasoned veteran compared to his inaugural Cup appearance in 2013, Deal has proven that he's not just another pretty face. As a relative newcomer to the STC Cup he showed the mettle of a champion by hanging on for a tough victory in singles in 2013. Always the competitor, he hasn't stopped talking about the Cup since he departed Myrtle summer '13 and is committed to securing the hardware whatever team he laces them up for in the coming years.
HEATH PERRY
STC Cup Record: 3-1-1
STC Cups Won: 0
Cups Participated In: 1
College: University of Wofford
Index: 6.0
Irons: 1980
Liquid of Choice: Anything that increases the odd for pro-creation
Bio: Fast Cars, Fast Women and Fast Points in Singles Matches!!!!!! Quote following the '14 STC Cup, "That was Match Play on Steroids".
SCHELL BUTLER
STC Cup Record: 4-2-1
STC Cups Won: 1
Cups Participated In: 2
College: Georgia Southern University
Index: Too Many
Irons:
Liquid of Choice:
Bio:
BILLY SHUMAN
STC Cup Record: 2-2-0
STC Cups Won: 1
Cups Participated In: 1
College: University of South Carolina
Index: 14
Irons:
Liquid of Choice: O'Doul's
Bio:
KEVIN MCKINNEY
STC Cup Record: 1-3-0
STC Cups Won: 0
Cups Participated In: 1
College: University of South Carolina
Index: Too Many
Irons:
Liquid of Choice:
Bio:
WILLIAM DOZIER
STC Cup Record: 2-2-0
STC Cups Won: 0
Cups Participated In: 1
College: Lakeside High School
Index: 3.4
Irons:
Liquid of Choice:
Bio:
CHRIS JACKSON
STC Cup Record: 4-0-0
STC Cups Won: 1
Cups Participated In: 1
College: University of Georgia
Index: 1.7
Irons:
Liquid of Choice:
Bio:
TRIPP EAVES
STC Cup Record: ?
STC Cups Won: 1
Cups Participated In: 1
College: Clemson University
Index:
Irons:
Liquid of Choice:
Bio:
TODD REDD
STC Cup Record: 3-1-0
STC Cups Won: 1
Cups Participated In: 1
College:
Index:
Irons:
Liquid of Choice:
Bio:
BRIAN HOGG
STC Cup Record: ?
STC Cups Won: 1
Cups Participated In: 1
College:
Index:
Irons:
Liquid of Choice:
Bio:
RYAN BROADWALTER
STC Cup Record: ?
STC Cups Won: 0
Cups Participated In: 1
College: University of South Carolina
Index:
Irons:
Liquid of Choice:
Bio:
WALT BURCH
STC Cup Record: ?
STC Cups Won: 0
Cups Participated In: 1
College: University of South Carolina
Index:
Irons:
Liquid of Choice:
Bio:
Previous STC Cups
STC CUP 2016
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STC CUP 2014
Winner: Team Heart
Final Score: 15-15 (Playoff)
Where: Rumbling Bald, Lake Lure, NC
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STC CUP 2013
Winner: Team Heart
Final Score: 15.5-14.5
Where: Legends, Myrtle Beach, SC
Team Heart and Team Luxury started play on the Parkland course which seemed to be a tough test of golf with all the hazards, blind shots and out of bounds areas. Both teams were in high hopes to get off to a lead and build momentum heading into the last four rounds. Team Heart fought through all the nerves, blind lay ups, pineapple boat drinks, smoking hot cart girls and holed enough putts to take a considerable 4-1 lead heading into the morning four ball.
With a 4 point lead and 36 holes on the table Friday, Captain Rivers needed to cut into the lead and get the right chemistry together with his selections during the Champions Dinner. The Champions Dinner was filled with high jubilation for all, Ribeyes, Surf and Turf, double crowns and gins, top shelf scotch and a couple beers and a chicken sandwich. With the bill being split between what was supposed to be 20 guys each STC Cupper took advantage of the situation……………….except for one rookie on the trip. Mr. I had a Chicken sandwich and two beers and my bill was $84.14, “Thanks for the Ribeyes, Prime Rib, appetizers and doubles Crowns rookie!” as I quote the veteran Mr. Warren G.
The Friday morning 4-Ball started in unique fashion compared to most STC Cups, with no one hitting balls and everyone just trying to figure out what in the hell they did the night before. The range was empty and breakfast buffet was full of STC Cuppers. With an 8:04 start and 4 hours of sleep, the veteran Captain Rivers was feeling pretty good with his crop of late nighters on his team to cut into the lead. After a 5 hour steam bath on the Tom Doak design Heathland course Team Heart added to their lead winning 3 out of the 5 points available mostly due to Charles Dunstan birdie the final two holes of his match to get a half point; Team Heart 7 and Team Luxury 3.
The most anticipated match in STC Cup history was on tap for the second 18, the newly added “Ambrose” match, which is nothing more than a 2-Man Lauderdale. Captain Leverett stacked the front end of his groups in hopes of creating an insurmountable lead heading into the final day. The tee times were moved back an hour to let guys regroup, hydrate and stock their coolers. The balls were back in the air at 3:16 and the party was on the Moorland course, at one points in the match Stacey the cart girl hit more balls than the rookie Andy Higgins. The format was a total success with guys not being as stressed and having a fellow partner to lean on. The marquee match up of Patrick/Griffin and Leverett/Wright lived up to the hype, being the only match still undecided, the carts surrounded the long 205 yard par 3 16th, Captain Leverett purred a 4 iron that ran inches by the hole while Team Luxury missed the green and had to get up and down to keep the match going. From 35 feet Duck Griffin drained a bomb to keep Team Luxury hopes alive in the match. Both teams striped their drives on the short 17th with Team Heart making a kick in birdie to win the hole and match. Most importantly Team Luxury changed the momentum gaining 3 of the 5 points; Team Heart 9 and Team Luxury 6.
With the 2013 Cup in sight both Captains needed to pair the best Alternate Shot teams together to gain points going into the deciding Final Singles matches. Brad Shingler and Duck set the tone early winning in historic fashion 9&8, Captain Rivers was in the first group off in Alternate Shot and drained a 10 footer to win his match on the 18th hole and Drew Daniel and Dr. Deal won their match on the 18th. After it was all said and done Team Luxury cut into the lead winning 3 of the 5 points; Team Heart 11 and Team Luxury 9.
The FINAL Singles matches would take place from the tips of Heathland, the wind had begun to blow and the rain would eventually come through the middle section of the round. With 10 point available the Cup was still up for grabs, could Team Heart secure the 4 ½ points needed to retain the Cup or would Team Luxury repeat the past performance of Team Heart in 2010. Captain Rivers and Leverett started the Singles with the traditional captain’s match, in a see-saw battle Captain Leverett edged Captain Rivers, Team Heart only needed 3 ½ points. As the Captain scurried back to the matches still in progress, the word started to spread that Team Luxury were riding a wave of points and had fought back and won 5 points which made the total TEAM LUXURY 14 AND TEAM HEART 14. With two matches still on the course Team Heart’s Charles Dunstan verse Team Luxury’s Duck Griffin and Team Heart’s Jim Cely verse Team Luxury’s Warren Morris; Team Heart was 1 up in both matches going into the 17th with the cup on the line. Darkness was setting in and the sprinklers had started on the tee box on the long 220 yard par 3 17th, both teams had to dodge the spray to hit their tee balls. Team Luxury’s Griffin and Morris hit two great chip shots and made Par which won the hole and squared up the matches. All Team Luxury or Team Heart needed was 1 ½ points to win the 2013 STC CUP. All four guys hit unbelievable pressure tee balls. Cely, Griffin and Dunstan missed the green with their seconds and Warren hit an incredible ball out of the fairway bunker on to the green. Dunstan was the first to play and hit his chip to 18 feet and then one of the best shots in STC Cup was about to struck, Duck hit his chip from a tight lie to a raised green that went into the bottom of the cup and came to eventually hang on the lip for an amazing par. Jim Cely hit a pressure packed chip that left him with 5 feet to save par. With Team Luxury guaranteed an half with Ducks chip Charles Dunstan putted a ball that went around the hole and INNNNNNNN for the push which lead to Team Heart tackling Dunstan on the green.; Team Heart 14 ½ and Team Luxury 14 ½. Now it was down to 1 point with Cely having to make a slippery downhill putt to guarantee a half point which found the bottom of the cup; the veteran Warren Morris still had 4 feet left to tie the 2013 STC Cup , with almost complete darkness Warren lipped out his putt on the right side of the cup to give Team Heart the win of the 2013 STC Cup 15 ½ to 14 ½. The celebration was subdued with the feeling of gut rout for the classiest player in the STC Cup. With the Cup still in hand Captain Leverett and Team Heart enjoyed the celebratory champagne bath, what an ending to the best STC Cup to date, clutch putt by Jim Cely, the chip by Duck, the fight by Warren and the putt heard around the Grand Strand by Mr. Chuck Dunstan!
As I quote the first email after the STC Cup ended by the Man we would all strive for our children to be like Mr. Warren G Morris, “I'm exhausted and my entire body aches. But even though my tank is empty, my heart is full. Enjoyed spending time with each one of you. Thanks to the captains for hosting the best trip to date and congratulations to TH on capturing an STC classic”.
Hail to the STC CUP
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STC CUP 2012
Winner: Team Heart
Final Score: 12-8
Where: Springdale Country Club, Canton, NC
2012 STC Cup Results (pdf)
2012 STC Cup Player Packages (pdf)
The weekend began with a quick stop in Waynesville, North Carolina for an STC Cup practice round and 2nd Annual Champions Dinner at a potential STC host site, Waynesville Country Club. Team Luxury showed up in grand Team Luxury style with all team members riding up from the Garden City in a team logo’d 16 passenger vandura. Damage insurance was paid in full in the case of a victory for the return trip back.
Cold Mountain held true to its reputation in 2012 with the weather conditions being very overcast, soggy and cool for the three days of play. The nerves on the first tee were very prevalent as usual with Johnny Adams skanking his first tee shot off the ball washer and then having to play his second shot 30 yards behind the tee box. Nerves settled as the Cuppers waiting on the tee handle to scramble for cover. Johnny redeemed himself Sunday solidifying a crucial point for his team while going 1-2-1 overall.
Friday’s Four Ball matches were all very competitive; many of the matches were settled on the final hole. Friday’s total ended in a deadlock with each team earning two points. With the Cup in a deadlock Friday nights pairing would be all the more important.
Saturday’s early morning Four Ball matchs started out with the customary overwhelming heartburn, headaches and sour stomachs, Bubba’s b**tching about how we need to be at Wade Hampton, Bloody Mary’s, Mind Erasers and eagerness to Get It On! Captain Rivers top loaded his early groups in anticipation of having a lead going into the unpredictable Alternate Shot. The gamble paid off with Team Luxury almost running the table, gaining 3 points, which resulted in an overall total of Team Heart 3 and Team Luxury 5. Team Luxury had all the momentum for sure and the early lead in alcohol consumption. Did they gallop out of the gates to fast or would the positive buzz continue through the course that Boo Weekly would be embarrassed to play??
The afternoon’s Alternate Shot match started out with a Team Heart team prayer by the Reverend Josh Pinson with the echoes of DJ Khaled from the Team Luxury camp of, “I want my money back time and time again while I’m sipping on this gin Al Davis said it best, just win baby win, ALL I DO IS WIN WIN WIN”. The Alternate Shot match is the party match of the weekend whereas totals may typically need to be calculated the following morning. Team Heart decided crash the Party, after the last Boone’s Farm was slammed Team Heart changed the momentumand collected 3 points to Team Luxury’s 1 point resulting in tie heading into the Sunday Singles.
The Sunday Singles would be the deciding factor, every half point would matter and this is where STC Cup legends are conceived. The matchups have as much to do with the outcome of the Cup as the actual matches themselves. The balls-iest of all the matchups was Captain Leverett deciding to throw out a hay-maker selecting Mr. Adams to lace up the soft spikes against Mr. Wright. Captain Leverett also anchored his team with maybe the most legendary final group in Cup history with past captains Bubba Helton and Brock Patrick of Team Heart playing Brad Shingler and Brian Taylor. That matches started out with Bubba and Brock bellowing the Carolina Fight song on the first tee, in the onset Bubba and Brock jumped out to a deciding lead on both of their opponents, Mr. Shingler and Mr. Taylor never recovered. Overall, Team Heart took care of business gaining 8 points out of the 10 matches and delivering Captain Leverett his first STC CUP. Next stop Myrtle, oh noooooooooooo……………..
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STC CUP 2011
Winner: Team Luxury
Final Score: 12.5 - 7.5
Where: Fripp Island Resort, Fripp Island, SC
2011 STC Cup Results (pdf)
2011 STC Cup Player Packages (pdf)
Collision at the Coast, well, it truly was a collision. The 2011 STC Cup definitely lived up to the hype and anticipation. Many wondered if the STC Cup truly was in good hands with two new Captains taking the helm. The week leading up to the Cup was filled with the usual routine of trips to Bonaventure (best golf store east of the Mississippi), Sam's Club, the Liquor Store, the Tobacco Exchange, family time and the hourly check of the weekend's weather forecast. With the end of Hurricane season most players expected the standard hot and humid conditions of the south but as the golf gods would have it, it was not to be. Outside of the occasional micro-burst the weather was ideal, the staff and accommodations phenomenal, the courses in pristine shape, the seafood fresh, the bars full of well drinks and vacationers, and the island prepped for an Augusta assault.
Following Friday's highly competitive Four Ball matches, played at the Oceanside course, the two teams found themselves in a deadlock at two points each. In the Saturday morning Four Ball matches, played at the Ocean Creek course, Team Luxury got off to a hot start fending off the occasional shakes over the knee knocking 3' putt, anxiety of memory gaps from the night before and tabs left to take a 1 point lead going into the afternoon Alternate Shot matches. The two squads would split the Alternate Shot matches setting the stage for an ole fashion STC Sunday battle for the championship, Team Luxury sleeps on a slim one point lead with the point total through three rounds set at 6.5 - 5.5.
Sunday Morning Single Matches, is there anything better? Awaken to the sound of waves crashing on the beach, swift winds echoing off the bedroom window, thumping of your head and your body asking Why?, half empty Dixie cups on the bedside table, clothes covering the room like a crime scene, wallet...check, cell phone...check, golf cart key and golf cart...check, BUTTERFLIES and an Alka Seltzer....HERE WE GO! It's as close as a 30-40 year old gets these days to the thrill and stimulation once reserved for prom night. Teams convene at the golf grill for some Biscuits and Gravy, few words are exchanged, one could cut the tension in the room with a knife, the pre-match shenanigans begin. As the Cuppers approached the driving range it became apparent that the low country winds were not going to sit these matches out...the course would be playing long on this final day. Everyone settled into their pre-match routines...putting, chipping, range time, Bloody Mary's, shotgunned beers, dry heaves and last but not least final pep talks and words of encouragement being shared with fellow teammates. This would be an STC Cup final round for the ages. Captain Rivers sends some big guns out early hoping to extend Team Luxury's one point lead. Body blows are traded in the onset. As the groups begin to make the turn it seems all but guaranteed that yet again the Cup will be decided by one of the final groups. Team Luxury post a couple points early, then a couple more, then with a few matches in the balance news spreads like a venereal disease on Frat Row, Team Luxury's Matt Griffin and Josh Pinson have closed out their matches with a handful of holes to go to seal the Victory, the 2012 STC Cup has been won with Team Luxury winning 6 of the 8 Sunday singles matches.
The 2011 STC Cup, "Collision at the Coast", was a heated competition and a memorable Cup at Fripp Island with Team Luxury finally pulling out an STC Championship in the Low Country. Maybe like the changing tides of the Atlantic, Captain Rivers has found a new home field for Team Luxury on the coasts of Carolina. Let's all remember, you only live once, so do everything twice, unfortunately we'll have to wait until 2013 to see if Team Luxury can repeat at the coast. No time to look ahead with the shadow of Cold Mountain lurking on the horizon.
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STC CUP 2010
Winner: Team Heart
Final Score: 10.5 - 9.5
Where: Springdale Country Club, Canton, NC
2010 STC Cup Results (pdf)
The “FINAL ROUND”.............................................
It was a calm chilly morning, foggy at the onset, as the first chilly brew cracked and echoed off the Blue Ridge Mountain side everybody knew it was the FINAL ROUND. The front nine was lackluster with Team Luxury holding court and visions of jubilee all the way back to Augusta encompassing their thoughts. As the sun peaked the hills and the eight matches made their way to the back nine, a crescendo equivalent to the roar of a catamount rang through the valleys of Canton…Team Heart was charging, from the depths of Cup despair Team Heart members listened to the glorious roar of teammates shouting from the mountain tops that “we won the first match”…a few minutes later “we won the second match”. The press was officially on, was Team Luxury going to stand firm against this cry of victory? The final group had arrived on the tee box of number seventeen with views of groups on eighteen green, eighteen fairway, eighteen tee box and seventeen green, it was all going to unfold in minutes every shot signifying the slimmest of margin between victory or defeat. Like the previous mountain STC Cups every teammate standing by the eighteenth green to view their fate as the final group arrived. Fate can be a painful thing, unfortunately for Team Luxury this was their destiny…Team Heart played the most dominate final round to date to pull out a one point victory and the largest comeback in STC Cup history, ripping the heart out of its opponent. Upon Captain Patrick sealing the Cup with an eight foot downhill slider, the Canton skies opened and gave Captain Brock Patrick a true champion’s brew shower. Team Luxury, like the gentlemen they are, congratulated the victor with heavy hearts for their absent Captain Helton. The dust had settled and another glorious Cup was in the books, both teams descended the Blue Ridge Mountains with their heads held high…the result, one of the finest STC Cups to date. CHEERS TO THE FREAK’N STC CUP!
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STC CUP 2009
Winner: Team Heart
Final Score: 11.5 - 8.5
Where: Fripp Island Resort
Ocean Creek Golf Course, Beaufort, SC
This was to be the first Collision at the Coast but ended up being a hit and run by the end of play Sunday. There was a lot of apprehension involved with moving the Cup to the hot sands of Fripp Island, particularly with the bulk of the competitors being from the Garden City. The cool mountain air in June/July seemed like the only option to give us a break from the heat; never the less the Cup was headed east to the land of golf carts and alligators. Team Heart had finally found the ingredients for success and Team Luxury’s weakness which consisted of many off the course situations, from Cougar Nation at the Beach Bar, an American Idol contestant, embezzlement by an estranged wife and a crazy man blacked out on Jack Daniels destroying the whole damn island. The boys from Team Luxury hooted with the owls in the evening but never got close to soaring with the eagles in the morning. Barn none the most out of control Cup to date, and what ensued was a dominate performance down the stretch by Team Heart. Captain Brock Patrick finally got a taste of victory, the much elusive championship was celebrated in true class with a victorious shower of Boones Farm and Moet on the 15th hole. Highlights and legends are under lock and key from this Cup, Team Heart won the Cup but the island won the weekend. Overall the Cup had changed hands for the first time and Captain Patrick self proclaimed himself as MVP, a well deserved proclamation with the Cup monkey finally being lifted from his back.
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STC CUP 2008
WINNER: Team Luxury
Final Score: 10.5 - 9.5
Where: Mount Mitchell Golf Club, Burnsville, NC
2008 ended up being another photo finish which wouldn’t be decided until the final stroke was played. By far the shot heard around the world was by Matt “Matty Ice” Martin, a 140 yard 9 iron over the trees to a tucked pin within 2 feet to win the Cup for Team Luxury. “Matty Ice” made the putt and Team Luxury won the Cup with him halving his match against the “Tornado” Rivers, but the really remarkable thing was “Matty Ice” was four down with four to go in the final group, fifteen footer after fifteen footer, sand shots, behind trees, chip-ins etc, etc, cool as a cucumber he pulled a half out of the match which resulted in the legend of “Matty Ice”.
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STC CUP 2007
WINNER: Team Luxury
Final Score: 11 - 9
Where: Springdale Country Club, Canton, NC
The great divide was real but we always arrived as one. 2007 was not anything different, it was not only competitive but it was almost incarcerating. The scene of the crime was #14 a reachable par five along the main road to the entrance of Springdale Country Club. Defendant, Brian Taylor, weapon of choice was a driver and the ammunition, a titlist Pro-V1. The victim was an innocent mountain boy with an ulterior motive. Brian was in a heated four ball match when he duck hooked his ball into the windshield of the young mountain boy’s 1991 Chevrolet S-10, fortunately for Brian that was the turning point of the match, the ball ricocheted off the windshield into the middle of the fairway. Brian quickly got into an argument with the driver, thanked him for the assist and presumed to finish the match. Never the less police were in golf carts by the 17th hole and Brian politely asked the officers if he could finish his match, I think we all know how that turned out. The result was no jail time but a costly insurance bill for years to come.
As fate would have it, the inaugural STC Cup came down to the final two single matches. Once the divots and beer cans settled, Team Luxury limped out of the Blue Ridge Mountains with their heads held high…victorious, 11 to 9.
