The girls on the King Kekaulike golf team are excited as they enter the season with a full roster including (from left) Isabel Hartman, Joslin Imlay, Lana Bajon and Maeha Hatchie. Courtesy photo

Bringing a sense of pride, community and teamwork to the course, the King Kekaulike girls golf team is entering the 2026 season with a full roster for the first time in program history.

Golf at King Kekaulike has also seen increased interest, with the team creating opportunities to inspire and spark curiosity among students not previously involved in the sport.

As head coach, Brian Bardos said participation has grown due to the success and development the team has demonstrated over the past few seasons, with returning athletes helping to foster a welcoming, supportive and enjoyable environment.

“As the program became more visible and consistent, more students felt confident about joining,” Bardos said.

With a full roster, there are more opportunities for the players. They have more chances to learn from one another, challenge each other and understand how teamwork can strengthen performance in an individual sport.

“The energy has increased tremendously,” Bardos said. “With more players, we’ve brought in more structure — stations, small�’group sessions, and focused drills. The athletes are pushing each other in the best possible way, and our team chemistry is stronger because of it.”

Having a full team roster not only impacts the players but also transforms practices and team dynamics. The team also hopes it helps set an example.

“It shows the changing of the sport and how we can get more involvement in sports that previously haven’t had as much interest,” said Isabel “Izzy” Hartman, a junior. “I like our team dynamic and the potential and talent our team has. I hope we can do better in MILs than we have in previous years. We have work to do, but I think we’ll have a great season with a lot of improvement from last year.”

Looking to unify the team with the new additions, while working on growth, the girls and their coach are looking to help mentor the newcomers, as they strengthen the team culture and build a legacy for the school’s girls golf program.

“I’m proud to be a part of a new beginning for King K,” said Joslin Imlay, a junior. “Although our team of three was fun, I’m excited for this season. Practices seem great so far. The team gets along great and I’m glad we have supporting coaches. My hopes are to play well and have fun. I hope we can shoot good scores overall and do well in the MIL tournament.”

Not only does having a complete roster uplift the spirits of returning athletes, it has also served to strengthen team unity and allow for the team to set new goals.

King Kekaulike girls golfers (from left) Isabel Hartman, Joslin Imlay (top), Lana Bajon and Maeha Hatchie pose for a photo. Courtesy photo

“I think it means a lot. It’s special that in all the years King Kekaulike has been a school I get to be a part of when we have a full team,” sophomore Lana Bajon said. “Having a full roster shows hope. Last year we had many opportunities when we lost by five or less strokes, now we have a chance to beat the same teams this year.”

Coach Bardos said they will be conveying the importance of leaning on one another, celebrating each other and building a collective identity that extends beyond individual performances.

Teeing off the 2026 season, the team said they are looking toward a season of growth, camaraderie and building a strong foundation for the future of King Kekaulike girls golf.

The King Kekaulike girls golfers will match up against Maui Prep on Tuesday, March 3 at Kaanapali.