For the third consecutive year, senior Rachel Brahler read the words, “Schuylkill League 2016 All League golf tournament – First Place girls” on the back of a medal.

“I’m beyond excited for Rachel. Winning the league for the third year is huge. She works extremely hard and deserves a lot more recognition,” senior Kayla Drasdis, Brahler’s teammate, said.

The match took place September 27 at Blue Mountain View golf course in Friedensburg. Brahler practiced on the court several times beforehand to prepare herself.

“I figured out the exact clues I would use on each hole, and I really worked on the greens to figure out their speed,” Brahler said.

On the course with 10 players, Brahler shot a score of 81 to come out on top by eight strokes.

“This win means so much to me. I’m glad I won because of all the publicity it gets. I did not want to see another girl’s picture on the front page of the sports section,” Brahler said.

Brahler’s accomplishments did not go unnoticed in the school.

“I think it’s great when all the hard work pays off for an athlete. Rachel is a gifted golfer who will be tough to replace. The team can only hope someone will step up to fill her shoes,” Mr. Bill Rhoads said.

The golfers’ scoring average is evaluated in order to determine who qualifies for leagues. Boys must shoot in the 80s, while some girls can have averages in the 100s.

“I normally shoot in the mid 70s there, but I was just glad I won. It all came down to who was more confident with their shots,” Brahler said.

Brahler has earned additional recognition throughout her career. She has won medals in Lehigh Valley tournaments, and in her sophomore year, she helped her team win its first Schuylkill League championship since the 1980s.

“I was athlete of the week in the paper my sophomore year because of my score of 78 with the team and winning my first Schuylkill League girls’ golf championship,” Brahler said.

Her success didn’t come easily.

“I’ve been to the number one golf coach in Pennsylvania, Ted Sheftic from New Oxford. I also see a coach for putting named Rick Flesher,” Brahler said.

Further coaching helped Brahler’s putting stroke and with keeping her clubface square.

Brahler was surprised to find out that one of her role models, Brynn Walker from Radnor High School who went to the University of North Carolina on a full scholarship, shared Sheftic as a coach. Walker played Brahler in regionals last year. Walker was also a two-time state champion in Pennsylvania.

Brahler shared tips for other golfers.

“Beginners should start by getting a good PGA pro golf instructor. Lots of practice and mental strength is key … keep your head down and focus on the back of the ball,” she said.

She will further her golf career in college.

“I will be going to Delaware Valley University in Doylestown, PA. The golf coach there said I will be the number one player on the girls’ team. I will be getting a scholarship to play golf for their team,” Brahler said.

After winning Schuylkill Leagues for girls and placing second in districts, Brahler still is not done. She has yet to compete in regionals, which will take place next week.

“I loved practicing and playing with my teammates. I will miss the feeling I get when I come in with a low score to help my team win,” Brahler said.