The girls’ golf team has found their rhythm this season, boasting an impressive 15-0 record and showing no signs of slowing down. Unfortunately, success isn’t the only thing on the record for this team. Missed classes are frequent​​, as golfers leave school early because of early match start times. With schoolwork piling up, there is no doubt that these student-athletes are being stretched thin.

 In addition, their matches range from two to four hours long, which leaves golfers little time for homework. Senior Ainsley Gallagher has played on the varsity golf team for four years and has dealt with the large consequences of missing school for her sport.

“When I was an underclassman [and] had a seventh period, I would miss a lot of work. It was a struggle to keep up, but it’s just something that you have to learn [to adapt to],” said Gallagher. 

She added that even without a seventh period now, she still faces challenges similar to those she had as an underclassman. Factors like different types of teachers and the difficulty of her classes contribute to these obstacles. 

“Some teachers are super lenient about it and then some teachers [say] you’re a student before you’re an athlete. It depends on the teacher,” said Gallagher. 

This poses a question: What are schools and coaches doing to help student-athletes? Sophomore player Mika Ishiguro has found that her school counselor is a valuable resource for navigating these issues. 

“My counselor helps me learn how to manage my time. I’m learning how to get things done quicker and sacrifice some things to get my work done,” said Ishiguro. 

Additionally, flexible practice attendance and understanding from head coach Zach Borello help give the golfers extra time for schoolwork. 

“We’ve given kids days off during the week. Golf is usually a Monday through Thursday sport,” Borello said.

These golfers have also found personal strategies to use daily and received help from teachers, counselors, and coaches. 

“I have a notes app list, where I list out all my assignments. I make sure to talk to my teachers every time I miss school to make sure I know everything that I need to make up and when I need to make it up,” Gallagher said.

 Because of strategies like this and help from the people in their lives, the team is able to maintain its academic progress and undefeated record. No matter how much work this team has, their struggles are no match for their spirit and determination.