The golf team participated in the 2022 HHSAA State Golf Championship on Maui, at the Kaanapali Golf Courses from May 6-10. The girls played two days of golf from May 6-7, and the boys from May 9-10.

“I think it’s (participating in States) a good opportunity for us. This is my first full year, my first full golf season, and I think getting to travel was a good opportunity and a really good experience to play against other schools,” sophomore Nate Choi said. Individually, Choi placed at 17th with a total to par gross of +15, and placed the best out of the OIA boys at States. 

The boys team placed 4th with a total to par gross of +89, and the girls team placed 6th with a total to par gross of +69. 

Individually, top 15 players get awarded with a medal. Sophomore Mia Hirashima was awarded at number 14 with a total to par gross of +8. 

“Placing 14th was okay, I wasn’t expecting to get a medal for it so we left the awards early to make it in time for our flight. I was still really happy to have the opportunity to play and make the trip out to Maui,” Hirashima said. 

This is the first state tournament after two years due to the pandemic, and the team having to start from scratch in 2021 after not being able to practice due to restrictions. Regaining stamina and tournament readiness was something they had to prepare for. The golf team plans to return next year with a determination to be ready to win.

“We were a little disappointed we didn’t have our game up there, we didn’t play as well as we would have liked. But we’ll come back stronger next year and keep working, and hopefully win next year,” Choi said.

Gallery • 2 Photos

Girl's golf team. Photo Courtesy: Mia Hirashima