Golf is a game that requires intense focus and Alexa Bleth, a freshman on the Vaquero’s Women’s Golf Team, has learned that in her first season with the squad.

At 17, she is the youngest and only newcomer on a team that has scored in the top three in eight out of their ten matches this season.

“This game is so mental, you need to stay positive in order to be at your best,” Bleth said.

Hailing from Marin County, just north of San Francisco, Bleth said she began playing golf after being influenced by her father and grandfather. When it came time to start thinking about college, she knew that she wanted to be close to home and that she wanted to play golf.

Bleth said she has fallen in love with playing golf at City College. She said that likes how nice her teammates are, and loves being able to play courses all across Southern California.

Bleth has gotten off to a hot start this fall, scoring below 90 in three matches in September, and recently posted her best score of the season—  an 80 on a par 70, at Santa Barbara Municipal Golf Club.

“She’s pretty focused,” teammate Stephanie Farouze said, commending Bleth’s determination.

Kayla Karst, a fellow player, said Bleth is fitting in extremely well with the team.

“She’s the only newcomer,” Karst said. “She’s improving a lot. Her confidence has boosted throughout the season.”

Coach Chuck Melendez said he expects Bleth and the team to improve and hopes to surprise fans by winning the state title in November.

“She’s a very good player,” Melendez said, “She’s a smart girl, she’s sharp.”

Going forward, Bleth said she wants to get better and beat her personal best. The season is not over yet, but the memories she’s made on the course will not soon be forgotten.

“A lot of good shots, no hole in ones yet,” Bleth said, while cracking a small smile.

Bleth and her teammates will play their seventh Western State Conference match on Monday, Oct. 22 at Simi Hills Golf Course.