Steve Duemig Biography
Steve Duemig (died 16 May 2019) was an American sports media personality and had a daily local sports talk show on AM 620 WDAE in Tampa since 1996 which has been the #1 rated sports talk show in the area, and worked for AM 910 WFNS for 5 years prior to WDAE. The on-air name was given to himself as “The Big Dog.”
Sad to hear about the passing of Steve Duemig. We sometimes disagreed over the years, but we treated each other with respect. He is, no question, the most famous sports-talk radio host in Tampa Bay history. Prayers to his family.
— Tom Jones (@TomWJones) May 16, 2019
Athletic career
Born in Pensacola, Florida, Duemig moved to Philadelphia where he became an avid fan of the Philadelphia Eagles, Philadelphia 76ers, and Philadelphia Flyers, and in High School, he lettered in soccer, baseball, basketball, and golf. He played soccer for the Lock Haven Bald Eagles but transferred to Bucks County Community College, where he played on the league champion basketball team and the state champion golf team. After college he began his career in golf, working as a club pro, and qualified for the PGA tour.
Devastated to hear Tampa radio legend Steve Duemig is gone. Grew up listening to him, and felt so lucky to often join him on air. As tough as Big Dog was on the radio, off it he was such a caring softie. The entire Walsh family will miss him so much. @953WDAE pic.twitter.com/Cm2TnYpW6J
— Sara Walsh (@Sara_Walsh) May 16, 2019
He returned to Florida to focus year-round on his golf career, and started a golf business with driving range and golf shop. It was through his golf business that he became connected to Tampa Bay sports radio, eventually discussing other sports on the air. He also played on the first The Big Break aired on The Golf Channel, and co-hosted the Grey Goose 19th Hole for 5 years with Kelly Tilghman and Charles Davis, provided color commentary during Tampa Bay Lightning hockey games, and hosted College Football Pre-Game React, a weekly call-in sports show on Fox Sports Radio. Through his association with fellow WDAE host Chris Thomas, Duemig became knowledgeable in horse racing and became a part owner of a horse.
Cause of Death
Tampa Bay radio legend Steve “The Big Dog” Duemig died Thursday morning. Steve died on May 16, 2019, from complications due to brain cancer.
It’s with great sadness I tell you Steve Duemig has passed away. He spent many years talking sports on the radio in Tampa. And he was a friend. The family asked me to tell you they thank you for all your prayers, love & support. Service details will be forthcoming. #RIPBigDog pic.twitter.com/21UUePrQ3j
— Charley Belcher FOX (@CharleyBelcher) May 16, 2019
He was an icon in our area for nearly three decades, working at WFNS from 1991 to 1996 and later at 95.3 WDAE from 1996 until his last show in February 2018.
Duemig was a hockey analyst for the Tampa Bay Lightning for two seasons.
