Although it is still early in the season, the Aliso Niguel Girls Golf team has done exceptionally well in preseason and league. Both varsity and JV teams are undefeated in league with varsity’s record being 8-1.
The girls played against Capo Valley High School on Sept. 17 and earned a big win to start league play off strong. The team has a supportive team chemistry and culture that has helped them to succeed in big moments like their first league game.
Aiming to continue their winning trend, the team captains are committed to creating a positive environment to compete in.
Team Captain Carina Leo (12) said, “A goal this season is knowing how to build each other up! Beyond the competition of golf, it is so important to be able to help during a round, or to shake off a bad hole. The interpersonal relationships are so valuable to the mindset everyone plays with.”
This strength of team culture and constant encouragement allows them to persevere through tough matches when they occur. The competitive setting during matches creates a consistent environment to improve in where team culture matters as much as the outcome.
This team is led by Mr.Biggs and Mr.Turney, who have also greatly contributed to their success in many aspects of the game.
Captain Olive Kim (12) said, “My coaches have helped me so much throughout my career on the golf team. During practices, they give me tips on how to improve my swing and brought different gadgets to practice certain putting techniques. They are also so supportive!”
Leo added, “They are dedicated to the program and genuinely care about what they do… they are the most supporting, caring coaches we could ask for.”
Last year, they performed well with a record of 10-1-4. The team is working hard to keep winning while improving along the way, and it appears that they are on the right track.
Due to the small size of the South Coast league, the season is short but very competitive. In past years, the team has found success simply with their positive environment. However, the team said they are working toward welcoming more newcomers into the game and building them up.
Leo said, “League season is quite short and intense so we will be locked in over the next couple weeks… I know however it ends up, everyone will do the best they can and I’ll be super proud of this team any way it plays out.”
Since one of the goals of the captains is to build up the younger players and bridge gaps, the leadership given from upperclassmen to underclassmen has proved to be helpful throughout the season so far.
“As a senior I would say to an incoming freshman to stay stress free! They are going to learn and improve so much in both their golf and high school career by doing the best they can and putting in effort. Give yourself grace and time to adjust – it really will get easier,” said Carina.
They have four matches remaining, and their next match is against San Clemente High School on Oct. 4.
