Southmoore’s Sabrina Hernandez

For Southmoore High School junior Sabrina Hernandez, the climb to the top of the Lady SaberCats golf lineup has happened quickly, but not without pressure.

Hernandez, the team’s No. 1 bag, said the challenge of leading Southmoore starts with the competition she faces every time she tees it up.

“The toughest part of my position is trying to keep up with the girls I compete against,”

Hernandez said. “Being the 1 seed means playing some of the best players in the state, and it can be mentally challenging, especially when I want to perform at their level.”

Even so, Hernandez continues to lean on the people around her.

“The thing I love most about my teammates is how positive they are,” she said. “No matter the situation or how we might be playing, they always say something to make me smile.”

That support has mattered for a golfer still relatively new to the sport.

“I think everyone in my life plays a role in inspiring me, especially since I just started,” Hernandez said. “Everyone I know seems to believe in me, even when they haven’t seen me play.”

She said one teammate, Aubrey, has made a particularly strong impact.

“Whether it’s giving me advice or letting me borrow something, she’s always there for me, and I’m really grateful for that,” Hernandez said.

On the course, Hernandez believes her biggest asset is clear.

“My strength is my driver and overall distance,” she said. “It’s still a work in progress, but it’s definitely the strongest part of my game.”

At the same time, she knows where improvement is needed.

“I still have a lot to improve on, especially finishing strong,” Hernandez said. “I may start well off the tee, but what really matters is finishing holes and making putts.”

Her rise at Southmoore carries personal meaning. Hernandez said she has spent her whole life in the district and once imagined what it would be like to compete at the high school level.

“I’ve always dreamed of being at this level, and getting to live that out makes it really special,” she said.

Looking ahead, Hernandez hopes golf remains part of her future.

“I do know I want to go to college,” she said. “I would love the opportunity to play college golf, even though I got a late start. It will take a lot of hard work to get there, but I’m willing to put in the work.”