April 25, 2008

Get to know Northern Illinois golfer Tim Kay, a sophomore from Bartlett, Ill.
by Ben Killam, NIU Media Relations

Why did you decide to come to NIU?
They have a good golf program, a great practice facility, and I really liked the guys on the team.

What is your most memorable moment at NIU?
All of the tournaments that I've gotten to play in.

Who has been your biggest inspiration in your career?
My parents, they have always been there and believed in me.

What is your favorite saying or phrase uttered by you coach?
Coach Cleary is always saying "Nice" in the Borat voice.

How has being a student athlete changed your life?
I have gotten very good at time management, without it I wouldn't be a good golfer or a good student.

What is your favorite golf course you have played?
Forrest Creek in South Carolina, we played there over spring break last year.

What is your dream golf foursome and why?
I would take Tiger Woods because he is the best golfer in the world, Michael Jordan because he is a great athlete and competitor, and Lou Piniella because I am a big Cubs fan.

Favorite sports movie and why?
Remember the Titans because it is a great inspirational movie.

How did you get started in golf?
When I was five, I had an older neighbor who was big into golf and I started tagging along with him and got hooked.

Favorite golfer and why?
Tiger Woods because of his dominance and mental toughness.

If you could play in one PGA event what would it be?
The Masters because it's the biggest event and best course in the country.

What is your favorite sport besides golf?
Baseball, I played for a long time and it's my favorite sport to watch.

What is your favorite video game?
Tiger Woods PGA Tour.

Have you ever played Wii golf?
Yeah I've played it a couple times, it makes me look like a really bad golfer.

Most embarrassing sports moment?
Freshman year at Ball State I hit two straight balls into the water in front of Coach and a bunch of people waiting to tee off.

Favorite line from Caddyshack?
I've never seen the whole movie, that sounds really bad being a golfer.

How do you stay relaxed and focused on the golf course?
I realize that I am confident and the only bad thing I can do is play nervous and tight.

Who is the most competitive person on the team?
Zach Jecklin.

What is the best prank you've seen or performed on the course?
You turn all of the person's clubs upside down in their bag.