For the second straight year, Gilroy High golfer Kristen Campos will be competing at the Central Coast Sectionals.
This year, though, she’ll be going at it alone.
Despite a record-setting season, the Mustangs did not qualify for CCS as a team at Monday’s TCAL Championships at Salinas Country Club.
The four top scorers totaled a 417 (fifth place) on the 18-hole course. Only two teams – RLS (332) and Santa Catalina (361) – shot the 400 or below required to advance.
For the Mustangs, Campos led the way with a 94. Sophomore Annie Cockerill (104) and seniors Carissa Filice (105) and Amy Kishimura (114) finished 2-3-4.
“We didn’t score as well as we would have liked, but the game is hard,” GHS coach Eric Kuwada said. “There are so many variables that can get in the way of your golf swing.
“We had fun today, and the girls had a great season. I’m so proud of what they have all accomplished and look forward to seeing what they can do in the future.”
As for the immediate future, Campos is set to compete at CCS next Tuesday at Rancho Canada East Golf Course in Carmel. She’s guaranteed a spot after shooting a 96 or below at the league championship.
“Kristen was solid all season and the anchor for the team,” Kuwada said. “As a junior, she is steady in her play and is very competitive with the best players in our league.”
Kuwada was also quick to point out the improvements made by Cockerill and fellow freshman Amanda Bruce, as well as the departing Filice and Kishimura.
“Amy and Carissa played great this season,” he said. “After four years, it’s great to see them succeed at the game. Starting as freshmen – barely able to hit the ball – to shooting in the low 40s is a great accomplishment.
“We have built a great program … taking girls that don’t play golf and in a couple of years making them competitive in one of the toughest leagues in CCS. Look at what Annie and Amanda have done this year.”
