Lake Mary, the three-time defending champion, is set to compete for a fourth consecutive FHSAA state title in golf, led by standout Ryleigh Knaub. Knaub, who has consistently excelled, shot a first-place 65 at the regional level, propelling her team to another regional victory. Her Lake Mary squad includes seniors Delaney Sillaway and Mara King, the latter making a noteworthy return after a two-year hiatus from high school golf to pursue a scholarship. As they approach the state competition on November 19-20, Lake Mary's depth and experience position them as formidable contenders once again.

By the Numbers
  • Ryleigh Knaub finished with a total of two rounds (70, 76) at last year's state tournament, placing 7th overall.
  • The First Academy scored a team total of 284 (4-under-par) at their regional, clinching top honors to qualify for states.
Yes, But

While Lake Mary has consistently performed well, the return of players like Mara King introduces uncertainty, as her previous absence may affect team dynamics. The strong showing from rivals like Lake Nona and The First Academy also adds competitive pressure.

State of Play
  • Lake Mary is coming off a strong regional showing, securing the win with Knaub's outstanding performance.
  • Circle Christian, a boys’ team, is regaining strength with a full squad after missing key players last year due to personal circumstances.
What's Next

The upcoming state tournament will determine if Lake Mary can successfully defend their title while other teams will seek to capitalize on any weaknesses. Circle Christian aims for a rebound with their full roster intact, increasing the stakes in their bracket as well.

Bottom Line

As contenders prepare for the FHSAA state finals, Lake Mary is not only vying for history but also showcases the intense competition among top Florida golf programs. Their blend of seasoned talent and promising returnees makes for an intriguing showdown as they aim to secure yet another championship.