Joe Udine makes chips disappear, then reappear atop his stack, much to the chagrin of his opponents. It's not a trick, and no sleight of hand. The University of Pennsylvania graduate simply credits years of hard work to his seemingly overnight ascension to tournament poker success. "A... more

Joe Udine makes chips disappear, then reappear atop his stack, much to the chagrin of his opponents. It’s not a trick, and no sleight of hand. The University of Pennsylvania graduate simply credits years of hard work to his seemingly overnight ascension to tournament poker success.

“A key skill to success is to try to stay as disciplined and focused as you can at all times while playing,” stated Udine. “While keeping things simple, take what you can from each hand, win or lose, and move on. Being able to maintain a good mindset and ask the right questions while solving problems throughout any tournament is crucial.”

In December 2006, Udine won the PokerStars $100 buy-in with rebuys tournament an unprecedented three times in just two days, for a total of $80,000. The online poker world took notice and the forums buzzed, nominating it as one of the biggest online accomplishments of 2006.

Udine holds no illusions. He doesn’t plan to let his Ivy League education go to waste, but he wants time to evaluate his career choices at present. So, why not play a little poker in the meantime? close bio