Morgan’s play contagious for EF

Mya Morgan leads a talented, but young, Warriors girls’golf team.

Following a challenging season with just one section win, the Elizabeth Forward girls golf team is eager to make a strong comeback under the guidance of coach Justin Korona, who is entering his seventh year at the helm.

The atmosphere will slightly shift this season, as the team transitions from hosting home matches at Butler’s Golf Course to the Youghiogheny Country Club near McKeesport. So far, the Warriors are off to a 2-0 start.

“We thank Butlers GC for everything they have done for the girls program over the last six years we were coaching,” Korona said. “We really appreciate Tom Beeler, the pro over at Youghiogheny Country Club, for giving us an opportunity to play there. We’re excited about the membership and the goal is just to try and play as much as possible and get these girls the experience they need. We’ll also have a bit of an advantage when sectionals come to Youghiogheny at the end of the year.

“It’s definitely a transition. The girls were excited about continuing at Butler’s given the familiarity and comfort they’ve developed there over the years. However, Youghiogheny has been incredibly accommodating, allowing us to practice even when the pro shop is closed. We’ll do everything we can to ensure the girls are comfortable before our first home match (Monday) against Franklin Regional.”

The team is anchored by standout junior Mya Morgan, who claimed the WPIAL individual championship last season, finishing with an impressive 71 (-1) in the final round to win by 12 shots. Her exceptional performance not only showcased her skill but also set a high standard for her teammates. Morgan’s leadership – combined with her relentless drive to excel – will be crucial as the team aims to build on her success and compete at the highest level this season.

“It’s amazing to watch her play golf,” said Korona. “Her preparation and how much time and effort she puts into the game is inspiring and it’s very fun to watch her hit a golf ball. She’s not just driving the ball 280 (yards), but she can also hit her wedge shots the way she wants to and her putting is really good as well. Now the goal for Mya is to just continue to shoot under-par rounds and keep getting better.”

Morgan broke the school record last season with a 32 (-4) through nine holes of play, and tied that record in their first exhibition of the year against Belle Vernon last week.

“I’m really excited to see the colleges reaching out to her and coming to watch, so it’s going to be an exciting year for her to say the least. She has a great mindset and she’s a great student-athlete as well,” Korona said.

Along with Morgan, the team boasts a solid lineup this season. Senior Rylee Brawdy steps into the No. 2 spot, providing experience and stability. She’s followed by sophomore Sydney Boyd, freshman Annalise Didjunas, junior Alizabeth Leezer, and sophomore Lily Ash. The group will round out the top six golfers that will travel to away matches.

“We have a lot of girls that are involved in other sports and activities, and they still find time to work on their games,” said Korona. “They’re all great student- athletes and I couldn’t be more proud to be a coach for all of these girls.”