Girls golf swings to victory

Emma Wong tees off with her iron on par three.

BY LEXIE CRUZ 

            The girls golf team had its best season in recent history, going undefeated in the GMC White Division to win the Division Championship and finish 7-4 overall. 

            The players’ hard work, skills, and confidence paid off, as they brought home their first GMC White Division Girls Golf title. “As a freshman, it feels amazing to win such an important championship, especially for the first time in school history,” said Tyla Lovetere, who placed in the top three four times as a freshman. 

            The girls went into one of the matches against Mother Seton feeling a bunch of emotions, but they gave it their all. “Although I was nervous going into the match, I had to stay confident and focused. As a team, we knew that Mother Seton was our toughest opponent and knew what was on the line, so we just had to trust each other and our skills,” said sophomore Emma Wong, who placed first in both matches against Mother Seton. 

Alyssa Michaels sends her ball down the fariway with a straight tee shot.

            The girls had some amazing moments that helped them secure this victory, like when all of them hit a solid tee off shot on the first hole during the match. “I got a par on two holes, which kept my score low. I also used my hybrid instead of my driver, as I hit better with it,” said Lovetere, who shot a 29 to place second against New Brunswick. 

            The first time the girls went up against Mother Seton, the girls placed first, third, sixth, and seventh, but the second time they played against Mother Seton, they earned all four of the top spots. “I think we did a good job of not letting the pressure get to us and focusing on improving our weaknesses as we went on during the season,” said Nauduri, who finished third and second in the two matches against Mother Seton. 

Kate Hazel follows through and tracks her ball’s path.

            The girls stay positive during their games and always lift each other up. “It’s important to have a positive mindset in golf because it helps you to succeed and keeps you focused,” said senior Bridget Lutz, who shot a 33 against Metuchen.   

            The girls worked throughout the season to improve and perform at their best. “I try to play often outside of the school just so I can get some practice and learn about where to improve and adjust myself. It is something that I’m still working on though,” said Nauduri, who had her best showing of the season when she hit a 28 to place first against Metuchen. 

Standout sophomore Emma Wong putts her ball to the cup.

            They also express how remaining consistent and dedicated is what makes a good golfer. “I think it takes consistency, dedication, and patience. The more work you put in, the more you get out of it. Repetition is key and practicing regularly along with having a good mindset is a key part of being a good golfer,” said Wong, who placed first in five of her seven matches. 

            Overall, the girls had an amazing season and only lost four matches. “Being able to win the division for the first time in school history feels amazing,” said Wong. “It’s a great accomplishment and something we take pride in.”

Posted on 6/5/24

Photos by Lors Photography