Sports

TRINITY LEAGUE ATHLETE PROFILE: KIARA BOGGS

Santa Margarita Girls Golf

By Jenelyn Russo     1/23/2017

Kiara Boggs’ early years living south of the border were instrumental in leading her to the sport of golf.

“Back when I lived in Mexico, my brother and my dad used to play (golf) all the time,” says Boggs. “And I remember when I was four years old, my brother took me out to the golf course. That was the first time I ever held a club.”

As a sophomore at Santa Margarita Catholic High School, Boggs is already a two-time varsity player on the girls golf team and helped lead the Eagles to their second consecutive Trinity League championship. The 16-year-old also earned 1st Team All-League honors last fall and advanced to the CIF-SS playoffs as an individual player. At Santa Margarita, the enjoyment for Boggs is found in the team aspect of a mostly individual sport.

“I think the fact that we’re so united as a team really brings us together,” says Boggs. “It’s such a good bond, and I think that’s so much fun. Outside of the team, it’s really an individual sport. But when you come (together) as a team, it’s so fun. You rely on other people instead of yourself all the time.”

Also named a Varsity Academic Scholar Athlete, Santa Margarita varsity girls golf coach, Jill Hegna, feels the best is ahead for Boggs.

“Kiara’s overall consistent play this season was impressive and inspirational to her teammates,” says Hegna. “I’m confident that she will continue to work hard during this upcoming off season and strive to achieve even higher goals she will set for herself.”

One of those goals is to play golf at the collegiate level, something Boggs is continually working towards. Her challenges come from the mental side of the game, and she looks to her family to help her navigate the ups and downs golf can bring.

“I think since golf is such a mental sport, that’s the toughest thing for me,” says Boggs. “My dad really helps me out, my mom as well, to overcome those challenges. And when I’m not playing well, having them…feed me some positive feedback really helps.”

In addition to her parents, Boggs looks up to her brother, saying she wants to, “be like him when I grow up.” And as she approaches her junior and senior years, the Coto de Caza resident is keeping the bigger picture of patience and faith in mind.

“I think golf has taught me a lot of patience, and that’s a very important aspect in life,” says Boggs. “You really need to be patient and very positive. I think it not only helps me on the course, but (in) my outside life as well.”

Adds Boggs, “God has always been there for me, and going to Santa Margarita has really brought my relationship with God a lot closer. I have Santa Margarita to thank for that.”