Golf lingo and the rigorous practices that require a patient player

and Natalia Ruan ‘21

“We see sports like soccer, softball where a lot of people go and they cheer everyone on and then they look at golf and they’re like, that’s not really a sport, but it is. And I think it’s not taken seriously enough at our school,” said Ms. Spillane, high school math teacher.

In a golf tournament, players begin at the first hole and are put into groups comprised of one person from each team. These groups then play together for the next 18 holes. Each player in the group receives a scorecard to record the scores. After playing 18 holes, the tournament officials count up the scores. Each hole is either a par 3, par 4, or par 5 meaning, how many shots it should take the player to get the golf ball in the hole. A player’s main objective is to obtain a par or lower on each hole resulting in a birdie or eagle.

Carrollton’s ten player golf team practices for 2 hours every day after school at Crandon Park on Key Biscayne. Regardless of the heat and humidity, student golfers work hard for a successful season. The time commitment is also a big factor. Setting aside your own time on the weekends to practice is common.

There are many matches during the week causing students to miss class and return home late. Not only do players have to be academically organized, golf also requires mental strength. If the golfer hits a bad shot, they must not give up. The player must keep a focused mind for the duration of 18 holes which is about five hours on the golf course. Each hole is a new beginning and therefore requires a consistently patient player.

Carrollton’s Varsity golf team won district champions in 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2012, and 2015. Last year, the varsity golf team finished 2nd at the Regional Tournament and advanced to the FHSAA State Championships, where they placed 13th.

Like Mike Marshall once said, “Victory is in the quality of competition and not the final score.”