For many student-athletes at Yorba Linda High School, this year’s sports season was full of many unexpected challenges due to COVID-19. The women’s golf team at YLHS was one of many athletics teams that had a postponed season due to the pandemic. Even though there was much uncertainty in whether or not there would even be a season, the women’s varsity golf team was able to have the most successful season in the history of the golf program at YLHS.

This year’s team MVP, Sarina Tayui (12), says that “I think my whole team can agree that our greatest accomplishment this season was having an undefeated season and being titled league champions.” This season, the women’s varsity team was undefeated. This resulted in the team placing first in the Crestview League against Canyon Hills, Villa Park, and Esperanza. Aside from succeeding competitively, Natalie Neal (10) stated that “A great accomplishment for this season was the team having a low team average.” This means that at many of the matches, the team was able to have an overall score under two hundred strokes.

Four-year player, Olivia Yerkes (12) said that her “favorite part about playing golf this season was obviously the fact that we won League and went undefeated, but also that we all have such a close and fun bond with one another. We all made practice fun and that made the most out of a season that was so unusual.” The varsity golf team’s close bond allowed them to enjoy the golf season throughout all of the ups and downs that the season held. Ashley Tsai (9) says that being a part of the golf team “gives [her] a sense of community while we all share a common interest and get to play a game we enjoy together.” The team was able to bond over their shared passion for playing golf.

Under the leadership of Coach Riggs, the girls on the varsity team were able to improve on all aspects of their golf game. Each member of the team worked hard to improve. At league finals, Natalie Neal (10) took first place; she will advance to CIF Individuals along with Sarina Tayui (12). The team will also compete at team CIF on June 7.

Overall this season was memorable to all of the players on the women’s varsity golf team. Due to the success of the team, this season will be one of the best golf seasons in YLHS history, and it will inspire players in future years to strive for the same level of success.