The Girls’ Golf team at Aliso continues to thrive in league play and aims to continue that trend into the later part of their season. Their recent competition in tournaments and regular league matches has proven their talent in the South Coast League.
The team participated in a non-league three-way match against El Toro and Trabuco, which they won. Kendra Dodge (11) made her first varsity start in the three-way match, contributing scores in both wins.
“I enjoyed playing at my home course because I play it with my family … I really enjoyed playing with and meeting new people and just getting to experience my sport with them,” said Dodge.
The team also engaged in an 18-hole scramble tournament at Bella Collina in San Clemente where two of the Wolverines, Rhyan Heine (9) and Charly Wilkins (10), placed second overall in the tournament. Both girls shot an impressive 7-under to earn their second-place title.
Unfortunately, the girls did not get the victory they had hoped for recently at Tijeras Creek, but they aim to make their comeback in their match on Tuesday, Oct. 22 in the league finals.
This strategy and critical thinking before each match results in confidence and consistency on the course. The girls support each other while sharing their thoughts about the layout to give them the best chance of victory.
“During a round, I always study the layout of each hole before I hit, looking to see where the traps are and how to avoid them. I think about what clubs I must hit for each hole, taking into account distances and which clubs I am the most confident with,” said Varsity Captain Olive Kim (12).
The Wolverines’ success in this season so far can be attributed to the team’s commitment to each other and constant support. Additionally, the strong roster was improved further by new talent.
Kim added, “This season our [victories] are due to a large influx of very talented golfers entering the program this year, but more than that, everyone on the team is so supportive which allows the team to improve together.”
The Wolverine girls competed in the Women of Will Tournament at Oso Creek held by Mission Viejo High School, where Alexia Kim (9) was the Wolverine medalist.
Golf as a sport is a very mental game, and many of the Aliso athletes recognize how important it is to their success as a team to work together on their mentality and confidence. Leadership is very important to this aspect of golf, by setting a good example for teammates.
“As a captain, I try to always have a positive outlook and help those who are struggling. It can be easy to enter a negative headspace and struggle … so I try to not be too critical of myself because I want to be a role model for the other girls and show them that it is okay to make mistakes,” said Kim.
Aliso will compete in league finals on Tuesday, Oct. 22. The best twelve in the league who earn a spot will go to league individual finals, which determines CIF.
The girls have a strong CIF run ahead of them, and as they continue to play matches, they hope to continue the trend of strong leadership and teamwork to carry them through the playoffs.
