Jolakian holds many records as a Ramapo HS golfer
WYCKOFF, N.J. — Victoria Jolakian is too young to drive a car but the 15-year old is driving golf balls into the record books.
A member of the Ramapo High School girls golf team, the sophomore broke the 18-hole school record by shooting an 82. She also broke the 9-hole record, which was 40, when she shot a 35.
“It is so exciting to break the school record,” said Victoria.
In 2020 due to pandemic restrictions, the girls golf team did not compete but in 2021 they came to the tee ready to win.
This spring, the team had a significant win in a tri-match defeating the Mahwah and Ramsey teams.
“It was a huge win for us to beat both teams,” said Victoria. “We went on to compete in the state sectionals and placed sixth.”
Victoria was the only Lady Raider to qualify to compete in individual tournament play on both a County and State level.
“I ranked 9th in Bergen County and placed 34th at the NJ State Girls Individual Golf Championship at North Jersey Country Club,” said Victoria. “Coach Sandy Gordon has been so supportive of me.”
Victoria admits golf can be a challenging sport.
“You are battling against yourself and you blame yourself when a shot doesn’t go the way you had wanted it to. You think maybe I should have used a different club,” said Victoria. “I have learned to push through the pressure and spend my energy focusing on doing better on the next hole.”
Victoria says her optimistic attitude and perseverance were lessons she learned from her father Avo.
“My dad taught me everything I know about the game and encourages me so much,” said Victoria. “He supports me and taught me to never give up.”
It was watching her father play golf at The Golf Club at Mansion Ridge in Monroe, NY. that inspired Victoria to pick-up her own golf club.
“He is an avid golfer and he taught me both the physical and mental aspects of golf,” said Victoria.
Victoria and twin brother Alexander began participating in PGA Jr. League sponsored golf tournaments in seventh and eighth grade.
“We would compete in individual tournaments as well as partners in best ball competitions,” said Victoria.
On May 1at Concordia Golf Club, Victoria won the 16-18 year old division of the NJ PGA Jr. Spring Tour. Her score was a 78.
“It was exciting to compete above my age bracket and accomplish this score,” said Victoria. “I had two birdies as well.”
Victoria accomplished her new personal best score on May 23 at Seaview Golf Club Member Tournament. She scored a 77 and had four birdies.
Every weekend the family heads to the golf course affectionately called their “second home.”
“Besides our family shore house, the golf course is the place we love to spend our family time together,” said Victoria. “My mom Maria is my #1 fan. She is always there to encourage me. I love her so much.”
Energetic, articulate and outgoing, Victoria is passionate about spreading awareness for girls golf.
“I really wish girls would give golf a try and see what a great sport it is,” said Victoria. “I have learned so much about life playing golf.”
When not participating in tournaments or in friendly competitions with her brother Alexander, Victoria enjoys spending quiet time reading and baking desserts.
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