The Varsity Golf Teams wrapped up a strong season with impressive performances at both the District and Regional Championships, showing resilience, growth, and unity on the course. Guided by Head Coaches Carson Racich and Robert Campbell, along with Assistant Coach Rudy Johnson, both the girls’ and boys’ teams made remarkable progress, focusing on consistency, composure, and confidence throughout the season.
At the FHSAA District Championships, both teams finished as district runner-up, securing their spots at Regionals. For the boys, junior Bruno Ripalda earned a share of the individual District Champion with a score of 73, followed closely by junior Conrad Weeman with a 74. Senior Pedro Luque carded a 79, and freshman Dylan Shapiro shot an 81, placing the Raiders just one stroke behind the team title.
On the girls’ side, eighth grader Arya Luthra led the way with an 80 and a Top-5 finish. Senior Laila Hinton and junior Lucia Naranjo also delivered solid rounds, helping the girls advance as a team. Coach Racich said she was proud of how her players matured both mentally and technically throughout the year.
“This season was a great improvement from last year,” Racich said. “We’re beginning to understand that in golf, anything can happen, and it’s essential to give 100 percent effort on every shot.”
At the Regional Championship in Pompano Beach, the boys finished in 10th place, led by Weeman’s 76. In contrast, the girls placed eighth, highlighted by Luthra’s 76, which qualified her individually for the FHSAA State Championship.
Looking back on the season, one of Racich’s favorite memories came during a midseason match against MAST Academy, when flooding from king tides forced the girls to play barefoot.
“The match was chaotic but unforgettable,” Racich said with a laugh. “The girls had such a great time—maybe a little too much fun—but it was refreshing to see them embrace the moment.”
Sophomore Scarlette Freedman said the team’s connection made the season special.
“It was so much fun playing with all my teammates and seeing everyone grow throughout the season,” Freedman said.
Sophomore Matthias Von Der Goltz reflected on the boys’ steady improvement throughout the fall.
“Everyone on the team pushed each other to get better,” Von Der Goltz said. “We stayed motivated and focused, and that made every tournament feel like a step forward.”
As the Raiders look ahead, both teams are focused on continuing their upward momentum. With several key players returning and a growing sense of belief, the program is poised for even greater success in 2026.
