Golf tees up for new season

So far the boys’ golf team, led by No. 1 player Miles Peng, has handled sometimes rainy conditions and managed to achieve a 5-1 record as of March 11.

The Falcons’ most recent win came against Santa Clara (206-294) at the Santa Clara Golf & Tennis Club. Peng shot a 1-over-par 37 for nine holes.

The Falcons started the season with a close 207-211 loss to Wilcox on Feb. 29 at the par-34 Saratoga Country Club, but rebounded with a 174-193 win against Lynbrook on March 1 at Deep Cliff Golf Course (par 30). Against Monta Vista on March 7 at Saratoga Country Club, the team won 207-229; the day after, at Summitpointe Golf Club (par 36), they defeated Milpitas 220-260.

Despite the winning record so far, the loss of experienced players in Class of 2015 ― graduates Arman Vaziri, Noah Jung, Lukas Pettersson and Robby Gragnola ― who had led the team to a 9-2 record last year, has hurt the team.

    “The team lost four seniors last year, so it's definitely different because we lost a lot of experience we had before,” Peng said. “[To improve as] a whole, [we plan on spending] more time during practice focusing and working on our games.”

    His twin brother, senior Lucas Peng, and freshman William Liu have also guided the team this season, each winning medalists in multiple matches. Miles shot a 33 against Lynbrook and a 39 against Monta Vista, while Lucas and Liu both shot 42 against Milpitas.

Head coach Dave Gragnola and assistant coach Micah Hall have emphasized the mental aspect of the sport during practices.

    “[The coaches] help the team by encouraging us if we have an off day and keeping us positive on the course if we are struggling,” Peng said.

    Due to printing deadlines, the match against Monta Vista on March 16 could be not covered in this issue.