At its core, UPrep is preparing students for the long game, and no sport embodies that philosophy more than golf. The school prides itself on academic excellence, leadership and (sometimes) athletics. However, among all the efforts to create successful citizens, one small piece is missing: a tragedy worth a mulligan.
Golf is not just a sport. It’s a life skill, a networking tool and a great way to get outside. It teaches patience, teamwork and focus. Unlike most other high school sports, golf is one students can play for decades after their schooling.
We always equate ourselves against rival schools such as Bush, SAAS and Eastside Prep, but how can we even compare if we don’t offer the same sports?
The infrastructure is already there. The Seattle area has multiple good public courses. We also already offer golf as a semester class, so it is really a missed opportunity. Plus, golf is a sport open to all skill levels. From complete novices to veteran players, anyone could join the team to improve their skills and build camaraderie, making it a perfect fit for a school that values inclusion and participation.
Beyond the competitive and networking advantages, golf and the outdoors can also play a major role in supporting mental health and well-being. The game’s calm pace and natural scenery can reduce stress in a way that high-intensity sports cannot offer.
I understand that golf is not the most accessible sport, especially for people who don’t already have a set of clubs or previous experience. However, we already have a plethora of clubs from the semester class that could be put to use instead of hidden away in the basement of the ULab.
I also have no doubt that UPrep could find plenty of skilled coaches, as many teachers play, and I believe they would be more than willing to take on the role. This extra team would give more opportunities for student-athletes to find a sport they enjoy, as well as being low-impact and having very little risk of injury for multi-sport athletes.
So why pass up on this opportunity to put a few more plaques on the wall, involve more students in the athletic program and develop a great life skill for their futures?
