Julia Gulla is a junior at Nordonia High School and a member of the Nordonia Girls Golf Team. She has been impressive this month, leading the varsity team and earning medalist honors in some of the invitational events. She shot 73 at the Hoover Co-ED Invitational on August 14, 2023, and 79 at the second Suburban League Tournament held at Pleasant Valley GC. She also qualified for the state tournament last year and hopes to return to the Ohio State Gray Course in October. Nordonia Hills news reporter Joshua Okeke had a chance to chat with her and learn more about her passion for golf, her journey as an athlete, and her goals for this season.
Joshua: Congratulations on being named the Player Spotlight, Julia! Can you share what drives your passion for golf and keeps you motivated to excel on the course?
Julia Gulla (JG): My motivation for golf is my desire for a perfect round. In golf, there are always shots that could’ve been better or that you’re disappointed with. Whenever I play, my goal is to reduce the number of these shots and be able to say I had a round with no “simple” mistakes.
Joshua: Every athlete’s journey is unique. Could you briefly describe your path in golf and how you’ve grown since joining the Nordonia Girls Golf Team?
Julia Gulla (JG): About eight years ago, I decided to try golf. After participating in clinics at Windmill Golf Center, I quickly figured out that it was the one sport that I enjoyed. Five years ago, I joined the middle school team, which allowed me to compete with other golfers my age. The middle school team allowed me to play in matches and get a better understanding of the game. Along with the middle school team, I was also in the GCJGSF program, which allowed me to make friends from all around the area and play golf with them on Saturday mornings. Around this time, I also started playing in some NOPGA Jr. tournaments. In these tournaments, I made a lot of friends (many of whom I played with in high school events) and gained a better understanding of tournament play. Joining the high school team gave me the ability to golf with other girls who love golf as much as I do. Not only this, but joining the team allowed me to make so many friends, ultimately making golf even more enjoyable! Our team has motivated each other to get better, and I think that has really helped me improve as a player and as a person. Being on the high school team has given me so many memories I will never forget.
Joshua: This year’s fall sports season is upon us. What specific goals do you have for yourself and the team, and how do you plan to achieve them?
Julia Gulla (JG): I would really like to make it back to the Ohio State Gray Course in October. Golf is highly competitive, and there are so many skilled and talented players. In order to return to the state tournament, a lot of hard work and practice are necessary. The entire state tournament experience was unforgettable and something I would really like to experience again.
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