Twice named to the All-Big Sky Conference Second Team, Kayla Morinaga became the first Portland State golfer to win a tournament in three years, when she reigned victorious at the Colorado Memorial earlier this season.
Spotlight Athlete of the week
Twice named to the All-Big Sky Conference Second Team, Kayla Morinaga became the first Portland State golfer to win a tournament in three years, when she reigned victorious at the Colorado Memorial earlier this season.
The junior from Waipahu, Hawaii has been a consistent performer for the last three seasons and heading into last weekend’s NCAA West Regional, led the Vikings in scoring average of 78.2.
Prior to her departure, the Vanguard sat down to chat with Morinaga.
Why did you come to Portland State?I came to PSU because I really loved our coach [former head coach Felicia Johnston]. When I was being recruited she basically sold the school and the city atmosphere with her personality. The school had just won three consecutive conference championships, so that was appealing as well.
Coming from Hawaii, what are some of the adjustments you have had to make?It has been a hard adjustment. I wanted to leave Hawaii because I needed a change and wanted to experience certain things off the island. The weather and the cold were hard to adjust to. I miss going to the beach. I miss my tan.
What has been your proudest moment on the course?In the fall season, I won a tournament in Colorado. But the best moment would of course be winning the Big Sky Tournament in Arizona with this team.
If you could change one of your sport’s rules, what would it be?I would really like to have just one mulligan per round.
What is your greatest strength as a golfer?Well, I am definitely not the longest off the tee, but I try to make up for it with my putting. With putting everyone has their days–sometimes good and sometimes bad.
What is your favorite place to eat around campus?Sushi Land
What is your favorite thing to do in Portland? I really just enjoy exploring town and getting around the state. I love to see different things. Sometimes, I take a random trip to the beach or to Multnomah Falls with my friends.
What is the first item that you would buy if you won the lottery?I would buy a house. Actually, right now, I would just get an apartment for next year. But, long term, I would buy a house in Hawaii.
If you could attend one concert or a sporting event what would it be?The Masters, the professional golf tournament in Augusta, Ga.
What is the last thing that you cooked?I microwaved a garden burger a few nights ago. Does that count? And I made oatmeal this morning on the stove.
Do you read the Vanguard?Yes, every day except Monday. I grab it on my way to class.
