A girl golfing. (Freepik)
Last year, the Los Osos girls golf team had an extremely strong season, going undefeated with ten wins, while overall going 12-1. The team’s only loss came against Walnut High School, a non-league opponent who is ranked third in CIF. Last year’s performance definitely raised the expectations for what is possible this season, and the Grizzlies have already proven that they are prepared to rise to the challenge.
With the new season now underway, the team is using a combination of hard work and dedication to prepare in any way they can, despite not actually having an authentic way of practicing at Los Osos. The golf team only had four total organized practices to prepare for the season–two at the start of summer and two at the end. Despite the short amount of practicing time, the golf coach, Mr. Wilson, claims that most of the girls on the team are dedicated and golf on their own time.
The Grizzlies played their first Baseline league match on September 15 against Etiwanda High School and wasted no time establishing dominance. Senior Erin Miyasishima set the tone for the rest of the season with an even-par. This was followed by Freshman Tora Coggin, who also played an even-par, not only setting the tone for this season but also providing very good optimism for how she will play in the future.
The team’s immediate success is no surprise thanks to their strong showing before the season even started. The Grizzlies tested themselves in pre-season matches or scrimmages. The team defeated Redlands East Valley, Beaumont High School, and Corona Centennial, all of which proved that the girls are ready to dominate the regular season. Despite losing to a powerhouse in Walnut High School, that loss has only fueled the team’s dedication and determination to improve.
Coach Wilson has clear expectations for his team this season, both in league and beyond. “I expect our team to be league champions this year, I expect our team to qualify for CIF as a team division 2, and I want to get at least 3 girls to individually place in CIF,” he said. It is definitely an ambitious vision, but one that is completely within reach for the team.
What makes this season in particular especially impressive is the team’s resilience despite losing several key players from last year’s undefeated season. Coach Wilson addressed that change directly, saying, “We lost three key players from last season, but I still believe we are just as good. If not, better than last year.” That confidence is easily backed up by the emergence of underclassmen like Tora Coggin and the potential leadership from upperclassmen such as Erin Miyasishima.
Currently ranked 26th overall in CIF out of 223 teams, LOHS has already proven that it belongs among the top programs in California when it comes to Girl’s Golf. Competing in the Baseline league, which is considered one of the hardest leagues in the state, the Grizzlies know that every match will test their focus and skill. Still, with the confidence from their success this year, along with early success this year, the team should have no trouble having another dominant season.