With half of the season remaining, the golf team has a 5-4 record and high hopes to make a statement at regionals.
“It’s been hard compensating for the loss of seniors from last year, but throughout the season there have been many new players joining and everyone has upped their game,” said senior Josh Han, the team captain.
The team is made up of 12 boys and one girl, although the team believes their small size is what brings them closer to success.
“Since we don’t have as many players as other sports, we get to know each other on a more personal level,” said sophomore Alicia Han.
According to Alicia, being the only girl on the team is not as bad as everyone assumes.
“The guys are always pretty cool and welcoming. There are times when I wished that there was another girl on the team to talk to, but overall, it doesn’t really bother me too much. It would be great to see some other girls try out next year as well,” said Alicia.
Compared to other sports, golf is very unique in terms of both practice and competition.
“I’ve been a part of the baseball team and instead of breaking up practice to work on different things, we just go out there, play 18 holes and have fun,” said senior Raynor Lizan.
Golf practices four days a week for two to four hours a day. They practice at different courses around Virginia Beach, such as Kempsville Greens, Stumpy Lake, VB National, Red Wing and Heron Ridge Golf Course. Recently, the team has been spending most of their time at Red Wing Lake Golf Course to prepare for the upcoming regional tournament.
“Switching to 5A helped us because it gives us the opportunity of playing regionals on a course we’re more familiar with,” said Josh.
The team will head to Red Wing Lake Golf Course for regionals on Sept. 25, 2023, at 8 a.m.
“This year has been going well and all of our returning players have been shooting better than ever. Even our new players are getting better as the season goes on,” said junior Chris Castillo. “Our team has a good chance to place well.”
