UNIVERSITY CENTER, Mich. - Saginaw Valley State University Athletics resumes its 'Student-Athlete Spotlight' feature focusing on Cardinal student-athletes and what it means for them to be a part of the SVSU Athletics family.
This installment of the 'Student-Athlete Spotlight' series highlights Bay City, Mich. native Dustin Vogl, the senior captain this past year on the Cardinal golf team. Dustin is now an alumnus of Saginaw Valley after crossing the stage and receiving his diploma at the recent May 2013 undergraduate commencement ceremony.
Vogl was a first team all-conference golfer in the Saginaw Valley League at Bay City Western High School where he participated in four years with the golf program and one year as a member of the Warrior soccer team. Vogl also earned membership in the National Honor Society as an standout student in the classroom.
The captain was an integral part of the 2012-13 SVSU golf squad who earned two first place victories in the same season for the first time since 2006. Vogl completed his senior season with three top-15 finishes, including a fourth place showing at the SVSU hosted Cardinal Spring Invitational in Kentucky. Dustin, along with his brother Drew, both competed the past four seasons under head coach and father, Joe.
Dustin has even found an enjoyment for giving back to his community. Vogl has been highly involved as a teacher at the Saginaw Country Club for youth golf clinics as well as participating in annual SVSU Community Youth Day golf clinics.
Vogl has also been impressive in the classroom as he compiled a 3.0 grade point average in the General Business program, including a five-time all-academic honoree within the SVSU athletic department. Dustin plans on entering the golf industry and pursuing membership and certification with the Professional Golfers' Association (PGA).
In his own words, Vogl reflects on his experiences as a member of Cardinal Athletics and the SVSU Golf family:
"The SVSU golf team was like a family to me, and the friendships I have made on this team will last a lifetime. There is a significant learning curve mentally and physically when you go from playing high school golf to college golf. The courses are much longer, tougher, and it is much more competitive. In my first couple years, I learned a lot from the older, more experienced guys on the team, and during the the last couple of years, I have passed my knowledge down to the younger guys.
We have always had great team camaraderie, and we always have fun. Being a part of the golf team and SVSU Athletics has taught me a lot about myself and I have grown both as an individual and as a golfer. It is so much more than just a game." - Dustin Vogl