Tom Kim and Michael McDermott at Augusta
When Tom Kim stepped onto the greens of Augusta National Golf Club during the Masters on April 12, he was accompanied by a familiar face to some but a stranger to many. That was Michael McDermott, recognized by his college teammate Terry Scollin, who described McDermott as not only his best man but also the godfather of his son, Ian.
Michael McDermott’s Background
McDermott, a graduate of St. Joseph’s University and CEO of Kathmere Capital Management, is a member of Augusta National. Due to an odd number of golfers making the cut, he helped in a noncompeting role, marking his second time doing so after participating in the previous year.
College Golf Days
Before his involvement at Augusta, McDermott was a prominent student-athlete at St. Joe’s from 1993 to 1997. Scollin reminisced about their first practice in the fall of ’93, when McDermott arrived with a traditional persimmon wood driver while others used modern equipment. Nonetheless, he outperformed the rest, hitting the ball 50 yards further.
Acknowledgment of Skill
“We all knew he was something special,” Scollin recalled, now the men’s golf coach at St. Joe’s. McDermott played in every tournament during his college career and later had a successful amateur tenure, being named the Golf Association of Philadelphia’s Player of the Year five times and winning the prestigious Crump Cup twice.
Character and Team Spirit
Known for his “pleasant sarcasm” and easygoing nature, McDermott has maintained strong connections with teammates, with Scollin sharing that even Tom Kim highlighted McDermott’s prowess during a press conference. His teammate’s contributions to the team were unwavering, as he would push himself to excel even when others struggled.
Life Beyond Golf
Aside from his golfing talent, McDermott enjoyed friendly competition off the course, often defeating Scollin in basketball and games like billiards and pingpong. Their friendship remains strong, with the duo staying in touch frequently, sharing significant moments, like McDermott’s invitation to join Augusta National.
Sharing Joy
For McDermott, the thrill of being at Augusta is amplified when he shares those experiences with close friends and family. Scollin emphasized that McDermott derives immense joy from recounting his adventures and success rather than simply boasting about them. This humility is a key part of McDermott’s character.
