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HAMMONTON—Olivia Strigh was one of many Hammonton High School student athletes that saw their chance to play taken away last spring by the COVID-19 pandemic, but the senior golfer is eager to get back on the course in a few months to not only help the Blue Devils perform well but also prepare for her collegiate career.
Last week, Strigh was one of many athletes around the state who signed letter of intent, opting to continue her golf career at Hamilton College in upstate New York.
“I’m very excited to have made a decision early and to know where I’m going to college,” Strigh said.
The cancellation of the spring sports season forced Strigh to miss out on the chance to display her talents for college recruiters, but despite the challenges created by pandemic restrictions, she was able to make what she said was the correct decision.
“[I missed] my junior year, which is the most important for any type of athlete that is being recruited. I couldn’t talk to a lot of schools and the process was much different than what I expected,” Strigh said.
At Hamilton, Strigh found a college that met both her academic and athletic needs.
“Their academic program is amazing. It’s the main reason I chose them. I want to study math, and their math program is expanding and getting stronger,” she said.
As for golf, Strigh feels the school’s program is another good fit.
The coach, I really loved her. She was super nice and has the passion for the game that I like to see in a coach. The players were all very nice. It was an altogether perfect package,” Strigh said.
With her college decision made, Strigh can now focus on the her upcoming senior season at Hammonton, where the Blue Devils have improved each year she has been on the team.
“I’m very excited. I know we’re going to do well both individually and as a team,” Strigh said.
Strigh will enter the year off a strong summer season, that while abbreviated because of the pandemic, saw her continue to improve and play well.
“I was happy with my summer season and I’m even more excited for next season and what it will bring. I feel pretty confident that everyone [on Hammonton’s team] will be prepared and ready to play,” Strigh said.
Despite concerns about the late start to this year’s season and doubts about whether or not the team will even be able to play, Strigh is confident she and the rest of the Blue Devils will be on the course in 2020.
“I think things will settle down a bit and we’ll be able to resume play,” she said.
One goal for Strigh this year is a return to the state individual championships. Strigh made her second appearance at the championships in 2019, placing 17th overall.
I was hoping to go four times in four years, but unfortunately last year I wasn’t able to because we didn’t play. But I’ll be happy with three [trips to the state championships],” she said.
Strigh is looking forward to one more thing this season.
“We all got new bags last year from the booster club, but we weren’t able to use them. They’re really nice and we’re all going to match and look good out there,” Strigh said.
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