Following a successful series of pre-season competitions, the Diamond Bar High School girls golf team consistently proves themselves to be one of the best teams in California.

The season began with an optimistic start— the team getting back into regular practices and scoring high at tournaments. According to assistant head coach Jason Tuck, the team is balanced and composed of senior leadership, younger sophomores and promising freshmen.

“Although it’s early, the team has shown its competitiveness and desire to win,” Tuck said via email.

Their first tournament was the Sandals Invitational Tournament, occurring on September 20th in San Clemente. Arriving there as the two-time defending champions, the team placed second by just one stroke.

“Although we didn’t win, we proved we’re among the best in Southern Cal,” Tuck said. “Our league record early on is 2-2, with wins over South Hills, and narrow losses to Walnut.”

Thus far, two specific students who have proven themselves in competitions are senior captains Ella Chiu and Irene Park, both consistently scoring in the 37-39 range. Freshman Audrey Im and Peyton Huang have also shown great potential for such young players.

Although the girls team has been extremely successful, there have definitely been challenges due to COVID-19, physically and mentally.

“Wearing masks while playing golf is a physical challenge and until it is completely eliminated it will have a psychological impact,” Tuck said.

Fortunately though, the girls continue to take precautions and have adapted to social distancing very well. This is mainly because golf is a very individual sport and players can afford to stay six feet apart.

Despite the many challenges, all of the golf members are looking towards an optimistic season. The coaches have several goals this year for the team, such as winning the state championship, developing underclassmen into college level competitors and coaching the students to love golf, regardless of whether or not they participate in collegiate golf.

“We’re looking forward to making this season fun, while taking the team as far in the playoffs as we can, and still building for the future through the continued development of all of our players,” Tuck said.

Their next game will be on October 7, at 12:00 pm at the Mountain Meadows golf course.