4/2 – Andover: 3.5, Belmont Hill: 3.5
4/2 – Andover: 4.5, Exeter: 2.5
Golf kicked off the season strong in a tri-match against tough opponents, Belmont Hill and Phillips Exeter Academy (Exeter), resulting in a tie and a win, respectively. In its first matches, the team showcased a powerful display of unity and support, showing that golf transcends the scorecard and the game played on the course.
Heyon Choi ’25 discussed how, despite the team’s varied mindsets heading into the match, there was a collective commitment to give their all. She also highlighted how golf holds great significance for the team, with the bonds formed through the game transcending the sport itself.
“Right now, the team is in a place where everyone is at different stages and in different mindsets, but one thing we all agree on is that we want to try our best and do our best for each other. One of the biggest things we’ve realized is that we’re truly there for each other, and golf really is life for us. It’s more than just a game. It’s something that has helped us bond and feel like family,” said Choi.
For many on the team, it was their first match at Andover. Ian Kim ’28 shared his nervousness at the start. However, with the support of his teammates, he was able to gain confidence and fully enjoy the experience of his first match.
“Playing my first golf match of the season, I had the first-hole jitters. I didn’t really know what to expect, but the people I played with, along with all my teammates, were really supportive in helping me get through those jitters. They helped me recover quickly and get into the groove of things. That made the experience so much more enjoyable. That first-game mentality was much easier to cope with because of the enjoyment and support from my teammates,” said Kim.
Kim continued by reflecting on how, despite not playing perfectly, his first hole stood out as a highlight. After a lackluster drive, he managed to recover and make a bogey. He also mentioned how, throughout the match, he was able to bounce back from mistakes and deliver in crucial moments.
“As for some of the highlights, definitely the first hole. It wasn’t my best hole, I made a bogey — but after hitting a 40-yard drive to the white tees, I didn’t expect to go that far. Still, making an up-and-down really set the tone for the day. Even if there were some bad shots or hardships, I was able to recover and make the most of it because it’s match play. Another highlight was the second-to-last par five, hole seven. I hit some really solid shots when I needed them most, and that was a crucial point in the match. It felt good to hit those shots and have fun with it,” said Kim.
Kim emphasized the time spent with his teammates on the course as a special part of the match. He noted that the team bonding helped him stay relaxed and positive, preventing him from getting too stressed about the game. He expressed his desire to carry this positive attitude and camaraderie into future matches.
“The joy and camaraderie we had on the course was special. I haven’t experienced that level of engagement and laughter before, and it was really meaningful. The team bonding aspect is a huge factor in why I loved playing today, and I plan to take that with me. I’ll also carry the mentality that even if I don’t play well, it’s still golf at the end of the day. If I play well, I get to celebrate with the team, so either way, it’s a win. I’ll carry that positive mentality and grit into the next matches, remembering that golf is just a game, and that mindset helped me get through today,” said Kim.
Choi mentioned that, from an outside perspective, the team showed great support for one another as it kicked off the season against two tough opponents, playing their best despite the challenge.
“Watching the match, I felt like we were really supportive of one another. It was our first game of the season against Exeter and Belmont Hill, two very strong opponents, but we did our best. We have some exciting matches coming up, and I’m looking forward to them,” said Choi.
Golf will play at Tabor on Saturday.
