By Brodie Mansfield, Opinion Editor
Golf is normally about perfect swings and low scores, but for junior Elyssa Nono, there is a lot more to the game. She values friendship, dedication, and fun in her play, all while humbly working hard to uplift her team. Nono has truly found a home in Moreau Catholic’s girls’ golf team, with an amazing team and a wonderful coach to accompany.
Nono first began to play golf seriously during the COVID-19 pandemic, but has always been familiar with the sport. “I’ve always done it on and off,” she said.
Over the last 3 years, with help from her coach, Kenny, she has truly begun to blossom in skill and confidence. “He’s really inspiring and so nice,” Nono commented, “Everyone describes him as fun and energetic to be around.”
The Moreau Catholic girls’ golf team practices every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 3:30 to 5:30 pm, making Mission Hills Golf Course in Hayward, their home. The team works hard to win their games, practicing six hours per week whilst balancing school and life for their sport. Although Elyssa says the team’s positive atmosphere makes practice something to look forward to. “We’re really well-rounded in terms of friendliness,” she said, “Everyone’s just nice in general.”
When asked about the hardest part of golf, Nono brought up consistency. She explained, “You have to really train yourself to be diligent in your shots, and especially because not every shot is perfect.”
Staying focused during a match can also be a challenge, however, which is why Nono does not listen to music as she plays, believing it would distract her. “I think of music in my head, but I can’t actually listen to it,” she elaborated.
Thinking positively during a match is also incredibly important. Golf is more than hitting a ball straight, it’s just as much a mental game as a physical one. As much as your practice and determination affect your swing, your mental state does the same. A negative mind often equates to a bad game.
Nono knows to stay calm, even when things don’t go as planned. “Not every shot is going to be great, you just have to move on and focus on the next one… I just think about the shot and try not to psych myself out.”
Nono balances a full schedule outside of golf, she creates art and plays violin, among other things. To balance sports and school, “I make a list of what I have to do after my commitment to golf,” giving the example, “If I have math homework, I’ll prioritize that after practice.”
Nono’s attitude and dedication to Moreau’s golf team tell the true story of her character. She says, “I just love it, even if I’m not the best, I love playing with my teammates and getting better every time.”
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