Golf is one of Northwood’s most successful athletic programs: The boys team has won four consecutive league championships and the girls team has earned a total of 16 league titles. Yet, with its daily off-campus practices, confusing individual-to-team scoring system and high barrier to entry, Northwood golf is something few students truly understand. Through interviews with team members and the coach, the Howler is here to provide some clarity.
The Howler: Can you walk me through the process and scoring system of a Northwood match?
Michael Qu, senior: We have six players and each person finishes nine holes. Then, we add up our six-player score and then take out the worst score so the five best player scores compete against the other school. Whoever has the least strokes wins the match.
TH: What happens during a typical practice session?
Lily Yagi, sophomore: We usually have night practices from Monday to Thursday unless we have matches. We hit balls and go on the chipping and putting greens from 6:00 to 8:30 or 3:30 to 5 during post-season.
TH: Can you describe how Coach Pang has guided the team?
MQ: During the League Finals, I remember he printed out this whole guide of 18 pages on each hole to tell us what to do in specific situations. I think these experiences are really valuable and help the team successfully compete in matches and tournaments.
TH: How have your teammates at Northwood supported you?
LY: I love to play with my teammates because they’re way better than me which motivates me to improve my own game. They also let me use their really good equipment which helps me practice better.
Sage Legaspi, senior: If I play a bad round, they’re always there for me. They tell me it’s okay and to come back better. We motivate each other and it’s almost like we’re a little family.
TH: Where do the teams practice?
Coach Jon Pang: We practice at Oak Creek Golf Course. We don’t have our own facility, so we have to share with the public.
TH: With Oak Creek potentially closing next year, what plans does the team have for future matches and practice sessions?
JP: There’s talk about getting a grant for an electronic practice system on Northwood’s campus. As far as matches go, we’re probably going to have to share a match space at Strawberry Farms which already houses University, Sage Hills and UCI teams. Rancho already houses Portola and Woodbridge, so there’s definitely going to be struggles. We need more practice time and there’s only so many driving ranges available, so that’s a challenge.
TH: How do you feel about Oak Creek’s possible closure? How do you plan to adapt?
LY: I don’t want it to be renovated because it was a really nice, close place and I don’t know where we might practice next year but I hope I can eventually get used to our new home course.
TH: Let’s say someone reading this wants to try out for golf. What are some things you would tell them? Would you say the teams are accessible to newcomers?
SL: I suggest practicing as much as you can in your free time because we’re a very competitive team. If you know anyone on the team, contact them and we’ll send in a word to have the coach look at you. You can also DM our Instagram.
TH: What opportunities has Northwood’s golf program brought you?
MQ: Northwood really allowed me to meet new people from other schools that I typically don’t meet in tournaments, and also I get to play these high-school-only matches, something like CIF League Finals.
Lam Pham, freshman: I don’t do well with playing on a team, but Northwood has helped me practice playing together instead of just looking out for myself. Before that, all my training went to just myself instead of helping other people on the team get better.
This season kicks off with boys varsity’s first match against Woodbridge on March 17 at 4 p.m. at Rancho San Joaquin Golf Course. Those interested in Northwood golf can find their Instagram at @nhs_boys_golf_ and @nhsgirlsgolff.
