There are no ifs, ands, or putts—our varsity golf team has excelled this season. Yet, there is one player, in particular, you should keep an eye out for: Danica Ortega. Ortega shined in Lady Maverick and Districts by finishing third in each tournament and even getting to Regionals as an individual golfer.

The Varsity team is the most advanced level of golf offered at Riviera and is full of girl power. It consists of three freshmen: Danica Ortega, Miranda Borges, and Natalia Torres. Coach Young is content with this year’s roster and conveyed that each girl was unique and brought something to the table. Danica is in the top 20 or 30 golfers in Florida. So far, she has had an impressive career at Riviera. Couch Young and the entire golf staff can agree that Ortega was the MVP of the season. Talking with Ortega, she conveyed how this performance doesn’t just appear one day. Ortega explains that getting to her current level takes a lot of time and hard work, “I started golf at six years old; my dad just introduced me to the sport.” Spending most of your life dedicated to honing one sport is an enormous commitment and accomplishment.

Danica encourages anyone who wants to join or try out for Varsity Golf, “I think they should definitely join; it is an amazing experience—one that I would highly recommend.” To prepare for tryouts, she suggests staying healthy, getting a solid pre-tournament routine, and practicing, practicing, practicing. For example, Ortega loves to pump up her endorphins by exercising at her home gym before each match and jamming out to Bad Bunny or Drake. 

Not only does golf have many physical benefits, but it also teaches many life lessons and provides social opportunities. Danica’s key takeaway from being a part of this sport is to be confident and always look on the bright side. She said, “I have learned to never let a bad hole affect you and to always keep on moving on and playing good.” This girl’s group is the epitome of friendship and support and can give you access to life-long friendships.

Coach Young has been a supporter of the team since day one. Attending tryouts, practices, and tournaments, he stands as a clear indicator of their continuous growth and improvement. “Natalia Torres is up and coming; she’s gotten better and improved a lot this season. Miranda Borges excels; she’s very good, consistently good,” said Young. Overall, he is very proud of the girls and what they have accomplished this season.

Riviera has had a golf team since its opening in 2011. Currently, the school offers three teams: a middle school development team, a boys’ junior varsity team, and a varsity team. Ben McCain is the head coach and driving force behind the varsity’s stellar group. Coaches are critical to the improvement and consistency of players and can affect their mood and morale. However, in the end, the players are the talent. So, if you see three cool classmates with a Varsity Golf letterman jacket roaming the halls, don’t be afraid to say hello and congratulate them on an incredible season.