Pearl City’s Samantha Balboa says she really enjoyed recently playing golf at both the Oahu Interscholastic Association and HHSAA state tournaments. “I had a wonderful time and met a lot of new friends. I’m sure this experience will help me become a better golfer in the future,” Balboa said.

The sophomore started playing golf in the junior golf circuit and has slowly evolved into one of the better competitors in high school golfing. At the recent OIA championships at Navy Marine Golf Course, Balboa finished 11th to qualify to play in the state tourney.

At the state event held at Turtle Bay Resort, Balboa carded a 94 on the first day then a 96 on day two. “I’m not totally happy with what I did,” Balboa said. “I know that I can do better. But I guess I have to continue to work on improving.”

She adds that she hopes to accomplish this by getting more experience from playing as often as she can. “This summer I’m going to be playing in the junior golf circuit once again. The Hawaii Junior Golf Association gives me a chance to play all day. During the school year I can only practice after school hours. And then I have to quit when it gets dark,” Balboa revealed.

The OIA is a great outlet for learning the fundamentals of golf says Balboa. “The league provides a good atmosphere for learning how to compete. Here you have a chance to see your progress over a season. Next year I’m aiming to do better. Hopefully I can become a top five golfer in this league.”

“My ultimate goal is to return back to states,” Balboa said. “States is very big. This tournament brings together all of the best young golfers at one event. All tournaments have great golfers in them, but usually there are a few people missing. At states everyone is there.”

Balboa says she will also continue to work hard in the classroom with hopes of attending college. “My grades are pretty steady right now; above a 3.0. I know that if I want to be successful in my future life I must concentrate on my school work as well. I want to eventually go into the medical field.”