–Helianthys Cha–

Drive for show and putt for dough. Menlo College golf has come a long way in order to achieve the accomplishments they have today. Both men and women’s team have stepped it up this year to make Menlo history. This season both teams won their first match play of the year in Long Beach, California against HOPE International and Vanguard, following with the Sierra Nevada Invitational in Lake Tahoe (womens) and the PCH Invitational in Carmel, California hosted by Menlo Golf Athletic Coach, Mike Givens.  Menlo Women’s Golf’s very own competitor, Catherine Bataang won the PCH Invitational, “It’s exciting winning my very first college tournament and I can’t wait to compete again in the spring.” Within the last 2 years, Menlo men’s golf went from being the bottom of the food chain to 13th in the nation and Menlo’s women’s golf has won their first tournaments and broke the Menlo program record at the Sonoma State Invitational with a score of 317. “ The teams scores are a reflection of their commitment of competing at the highest level,” said Coach Givens. 

In comparison to other years, graduating senior Jayrick Cadelina feels that the team is changing for the better, “We used to wake up extremely early in the mornings for work outs as well as run the Stanford Dish right after and go to class. We had a fun team but we never experienced the level we are playing right now.” In 2016, practice wasn’t considered mandatory until they hired Mike Givens in 2017. Coach Given’s has made it his priority for his players to focus on school, graduate on time, and balance the golf schedule. Returning player Te Shu (Sam) Kung also mentions, “ He always asks the players about their opinions before making a final decision for the team.” The relationship between the Coach and the team has grown stronger where the team feels more connected.

This year the golf atmosphere has improved, returning player Julika Grosspietch says, “I love the team. It’s so much fun traveling and playing tournaments. We’re like a little family.” As golf is an individual sport, the golfers still make it a point to connect with their team players and interact with them through Menlo Cup competitions or hitting balls on the range. Freshman Franchesca Garcia says, “The team atmosphere is inclusive and we all get along, and it’s good because if one person makes a mistake, then the other team mate can pick each other up.” Although the team gets along, the competitiveness keeps the players motivated to push their skills to the next level. The players remain passionate in order to improve their game and play an even better season. The team dynamic has improved for the better, setting high goals for the spring season.