Girls’ golf team wrapped up another memorable season, showing growth, resilience, and teamwork both on and off the course.
Led by Coach Kevin Behrendt, the team faced challenges but continued to make strides in building a strong golf program at Venice.
“The key thing about golf at Venice High versus other sports is that not that many girls play golf,” he said. “We’re constantly fighting to keep a team filled with players.”
Despite that challenge, the team saw major progress this year.
“Eight years ago, we only had two or three players,” Behrendt said. “This year, we actually had ten girls play in a match at one point, which is a big deal for us.”
The team will be graduating three seniors, including standout captain Mace Castillo, a four-year player who will compete in the city championships for the third straight year. Behrendt said that Castillo will be “sorely missed” when the season is finished.
Alongside him, key contributors like seniors Remy Castillo and Elizabeth Martinez; junior Delilah Hu Ricks, alongside sophomores Eleanor Blute and Lulu Clancey, have been central to the team’s success.
Although Venice finished second in the league after a tough matchup against LACES, the team’s season is far from a disappointment.
“But I think the team improved, both as golfers and as students and people,” Behrendt said. “That’s what high school sports are really about— it’s not always just the results, it’s the journey that matters.”
Behrendt also said that the team exhibited a unique balance between individuality and teamwork in golf.
“Golf at its core is an individual sport,” he said. “There’s no one else to hit the ball or help you, but the way you score is by adding up everyone’s individual scores.
“Even if you’re not playing your best, you have to dig deep because your team is counting on you,” he said.
Looking ahead, Coach Behrendt is optimistic about the future of Venice girls’ golf.
“I’m excited to see how the girls on the team continue to improve, and I’m always looking forward to seeing what the new class brings,” he said. “I love doing this, and as long as they’ll keep me, I’ll be here.”
