Imagine yourself on a silent golf course, attempting to strike a small ball into a tiny hole that’s several hundred yards away from you.The silence may be calming at first, but there’s immense pressure with every swing. Each hit could be the difference between victory or defeat, and there’s no one else to rely on, it’s just you and the course. “In golf, it’s just me versus the course. Staying focused on my game is crucial for advancing in the tournament since there are no teammates to lean on.” says junior Evan Tsigos .

At first glance, golf may seem like a calm sport without loud crowds or time limits. However, it requires a lot of mental strength. Unlike most team sports, golfers usually compete in groups of four, with each player representing a different school. This setup adds another layer of difficulty, as players rarely compete side by side with their own teammates. 

This mindset has fueled both the boys’ and girls’ golf teams to new heights. In the 2023-24 season, both teams placed first and second for districts; the girls qualified for regionals. “It takes patience and maximum focus to do your best. You have to build mental strength to succeed.” says senior Delphine Wood. 

With more students showing interest, golf has become a rising sport at their school. “When I was a freshman, we had 10 boys on the team. Now, we’ve tripled that, so we are definitely growing,” says senior Shepherd Mackie.  However, the increased popularity hasn’t come without challenges.The team has dealt with several coaching changes and continues to struggle with funding issues. “We fundraise every year and make a little money from that. We also hold a golf tournament for alumni, which helps us raise funds.” says senior Jack Baumgartner.

Despite the hurdles, the players remain committed, driven by their passion for the sport. Golf has given them not only enjoyable experiences but also valuable lessons that have shaped who they are.

As these athletes reflect on their season, it’s clear that the sport has given them more than just trophies and wins. It has provided memories, friendships, and personal growth. Now they look towards the future, excited about what awaits. Whether on the course or off, these young athletes are prepared to face new challenges with the patience, focus, and resilience they’ve gained through golf.