Sophia Shen

Heading into Spring, both Rye Country Day School’s Boys’ and Girls’ Varsity Golf teams are focused on improving their individual skills with the excitement of a new season. Over Spring Break, the boys team traveled to Florida for Spring training. Led by captains Miles Dinger ‘26 and Drew Mulderry ‘26, they began each day with an instructional session, followed by playing 18 holes. “These matches were really good not only for working on our physical swing, but also the mental side of golf such as rebounding from a bad shot or playing under a pressure that only matches can produce,” reflected Dinger. 

Unfortunately, however, the girls team began their spring season without a training trip due to insufficient interest. 

“We usually develop a lot of good skills during spring training, preparing us well for our first matches of the season,” said captain Kayla Parameswaran ‘26. Despite this brief setback, the girls have been working hard during regular practices. Their determination has already paid off, earning them a 4-0 win against St. Luke’s School on April 6th. With two new freshmen and two eighth graders, along with five seniors on the team, girls golf has a strong mix of experience and new talent. The novel energy of underclassmen has pushed the team to excel under the guidance of their graduating seniors. Parameswaran, along with captain Mia Herz ‘26, attributed the team’s early successes to their ability to support and push one another during practices.

Boys golf started their season with a match against Green Farms Academy on March 30th, losing 4-5. However, hoping that the team can get their aggregate score consistently under 200, Dinger believes they have a chance at securing the NYSAIS championship title after two years of getting second. With a wealth of experience, including five returning seniors, they are able to consistently “perform under pressure and really show up when it matters,” according to Dinger.

The girls team also remains motivated with clear goals set. Parameswaran hopes they will win NYSAIS for the third year in a row and capture the FAA regular season championship title. Together, the team is committed to improving together and staying consistent. When asked how they plan on growing this season, Parameswaran explained that the team needs the most work on their short game.

Reflecting on her favorite parts of matches, Parameswaran noted, “I enjoy challenging myself by playing competitive players in the league, as well as playing new courses in the area.” Dinger agrees, explaining how one of the best parts of RCDS golf is the “sheer amount of amazing courses that you get to play.” Looking forward, the girls are excited about key matchups against King School and Greenwich Country Day School, two opponents that RCDS closely matches in skill level. “It’s going to be very competitive, and I’m curious to see the outcome,” said Parameswaran. The boys team is also looking forward to their most competitive matches, notably the FAA match at Centennial Country Club and the NYSAIS championships. With the Spring season underway, both teams are excited to continue sharpening their skills on the golf course.