Santa Maria High School girls golfer makes history

SANTA MARIA, Calif. - History has been made for the women's golf program at Santa Maria High School.

Vivecca Baray has become the first golfer in the program's history to continue their career at the college level. Baray will be seen on the courses at the University of La Verne in Los Angeles County on a four-year academic scholarship as well.

“Three years ago, when I joined the golf team, I never thought I would fall in love with the sport,’’ Baray said.

Not only did she make history for the school, but she also created a lasting impact on her high school squad, her coach said.

“She was the heart and soul of our team this year,’’ said coach and teacher Jay Cheney. “She was a true leader in a sense that the other girls on the team followed her. It doesn’t matter if it was a Saturday at the driving range, practicing in the rain, or even dressing like a golfer, if Vivecca was involved, the rest of the girls would be as well."

Cheney added that Baray did all the little things to make herself and her teammates ready to compete at the highest level, which included influencing the team to wear golf gear every practice instead of school clothes.

"I hope for [golf] to continue to teach discipline, hard work and focus. I have to believe in myself. I know what I can do, what I can achieve," said Baray.