Leaders like Demory help Regina thrive

IOWA CITY - Adam Demory's name does not rank among Iowa City Regina's statistical leaders.

The senior lineman leads with his actions on the field and not the numbers off it.

Demory contributes to the Class 1A top-ranked Regals success on offense and defense, helping them win 50 straight games and three straight state titles. In his final season, he wants to close his prep career with a second straight 1A championship to go along with two 2A titles the program has claimed since his freshman year. The Regals (8-0, 5-0 1A 6) travel to Sigourney-Keota (5-3, 2-3) for a regular-season finale Friday, starting at 7 p.m.

Regina Coach Marv Cook said Demory mixes a team-first mentality with a strong work ethic.

"He's a real good leader," Cook said. "He practices hard all the time. He pays attention to detail. He's a great young man."

Demory is a two-year starter at center, and made the move to guard for the Regals 49-0 win over Wapello in Week 8. Demory leads a group of linemen that leads the way for all-state running back Riley Dixon and other rushers, who have contributed to the Regals' 1,878 yards on the ground this season. He also helps protect junior quarterback Drew Cook, who leads Regina's 1,388-yard passing attack. The Regals are third in 1A with 3, 266 total offensive yards.

The versatile 5-foot-11, 210-pounder considers himself a lead, trying to improve himself and the team daily. He is willing to share his knowledge, if called to do it.

"I feel like I have some experience," Demory said. "I can help out guys when they need help. A lot of these guys are playing really great on the line."

Actions speak louder than words, and Cook said Demory doesn't waste breath on unnecessary words. He leads more by example, but becomes vocal on occasion.

"He's a lot like Mike Sehl," said Cook, comparing the senior offensive and defensive linemen. "They don't talk a lot.  When they do, it's usually pretty important and it's a good message."

Demory also plays defensive end and tackle. He is one of a few players that pull double-duty for the Regals, and he enjoys it. Demory is sixth on the team with 25 total tackles, including 12 solo tackles and one sack. He had a season-high seven tackles in a 45-27 win over fifth-ranked Wilton.

Actually, Demory favors the defensive side of the ball.

"I like being able to just go hit people," Demory said. "On offense, you have one assignment where you're trying to block the guy. On defense, you just go get them. It's a more physical and aggressive mindset."

Cook said the Regina program is "blessed" to have players like Demory. Intangibles are bigger factors than 40-yard dash times, bench presses or frame size. The fact that he sports one of the team's coveted H.I.T.T. (Hustle, Integrity, Technique, Toughness) black practice jerseys shows he owns the coaches' respect.

"He does the best with what he's got," Cook said. "He has great technique and effort. We can win with guys like that."

Demory has a different connection to Regina than most players. His father, John, is an art and photography teacher at the school. He is a reliable resource, even though most high school students don't have a parent under the same roof during school.

"It's different," Demory said. "Sometimes it's helpful. If you need something at school, he's always there. I like having him around."

Demory's dad is one of his biggest fans in the stands as well. The younger Demory appreciates the effort made to follow his achievements.

"He likes football," Demory said. "He loves to come out and support me and my football career any way he can."

Demory, who has also played basketball, said college plans are unsure, but has interest in ROTC opportunities. He will cross that bridge later. He is focused on the road to the UNI-Dome now, trying to help the Regals eclipse the state's longest win streak.

"It's been a great journey so far, especially with all the guys," Demory said. "I've watched all guys ahead of me play and win and at the same time I know this is our year. We also have plans to accomplish something big."