A look into the growing popularity of South Eugene’s competitive golf teams.

Girls Golf

This year is an exciting year for South Girls GolfFor the first time in 2 years, the girls have a team of more than one person. That’s right. For the last 2 years, Waka Tsukamoto has been the only player on the South Girls Golf team. With a one person team, options for events and tournaments are limited. This year, the team consists of 5 players, which allows them to be able to play in more events and tournaments, making a name for South Eugene golf. The team is all about growing together, learning together, and building community. “It’s super fun,” said Deeya Patel, a freshman on the team. “I’ve made a bunch of new friends, not only here at South, but all around Oregon.” 

While aiming for the green is difficult, balancing school life, personal life, and golf can be a struggle. The team has to miss most of their Mondays competing at events. The events can range from where they’re held at, spanning from as close as courses in Eugene, to Grants Pass. 

The team is always looking for new players, so don’t hesitate to join. “It’s a really welcoming sport,” said Waka Tsukamoto, a junior on the team. “You don’t really have to be the best at it. You can start playing right away, even if you’re not that good.” If you’re interested in joining the team, be sure to email head coach Brian Fry at fry_b@4j.lane.edu and register on the South Eugene website. No previous experience is required, and clubs, polos, and golf bags are provided.

Go South!

Boys Golf

Did you know that South Eugene had its very own Boys Golf team? With their JV and Varsity teams consisting of a total of 16 players, the team is large in comparison to the girls team, which only has 5 players. They practice and play at a variety of local courses including Shadow Hills Country Club, Eugene Country Club, and Emerald Valley. Next year they plan to expand the courses they play at to include Diamond Woods and Pine Ridge. The coaches also plan on participating in more tournaments, having more practice hours, and more opportunities to play nicer courses. The team offers a fun and welcoming environment to learn, improve, and grow together. Even with little or no previous experience, coaches and players will make you feel welcome with encouraging advice. Varsity golfer Taylor Hvass said, “The team environment is fun and supportive and the coaches created a great learning environment for the incoming freshman.” With the regular season over, senior player Owen Davis-Piger is the only player going to state. Good luck Owen!

For anyone interested in joining the team, make sure to sign up on the website. No previous experience is required and clubs, polos, and golf bags are provided.

By Alex Doig