Boys’ Golf has battled through the season, earning a 4-4 record. The team had a rough start, with a record of 2-4, suffering two heartbreaking one-point losses. They are set to return to the course against Woodbridge on April 22. 

The last time the Lightning played Woodbridge, they won with a score of 186-196. They will look to repeat a win as they play their season’s final games. Each of Boys’ Golf’s final three games is crucial because teams must maintain a record above 50 percent to qualify for CIF playoffs. Since Sage Hill’s team is sitting at a 4-4 record with three games left in the season, they must win two of their next three matches to qualify for CIF playoffs. 

The team has struggled this season after graduating two seniors, Jett Ohlmeyer and Brady Green, in 2024. Sophomore Eric Zhao explains the profound impact the two had on the team.

“They were vital for team spirit and helped guide the younger players. The seniors instilled the idea that golf is a team effort, and everyone needs to play well to win,” Eric said. 

Boys’ Golf still has promising young players to fill their shoes. Arshan Stoll, Aaron Wang and Elijah Yang are talented freshmen additions to the team. All three are starters and have been playing well. They are now an essential core of Boys’ Golf. 

Alongside the freshman trinity, Eric has played phenomenally. In a big home match victory over St. Margaret’s, he shot two under, leading the team to a 14-point win and the lowest total team score in school history. Thanks to his impressive hitting, he won Sage Hill’s Athlete of the Week award on March 31, an award given to athletes demonstrating excellent performance.

One common struggle for a sport like golf is its individual nature. Sometimes it can be difficult for a team to come together and foster an enjoyable environment. However, this Boys’ Golf team has no issues with its atmosphere. 

“The team’s atmosphere is wonderful. The players support each other and help each other win while having fun competing,” Eric said. 

As the team gears up for the final stretch of the season, players will need to focus on recovery so they can play at their best. 

“Golf is a mental sport with players shooting inconsistently. Players can have a great day or a bad day, but we need to move on to the next match,”  he said.