History Makers: Lionettes roaring into state for first time

LA FERIA ー After narrowly missing a state tournament berth last season, the La Feria Lionettes teed off their 2025 campaign with a singular focus — making history with a trip to state.

The Lionettes accomplished their goal, finishing third during last week’s Region IV-4A golf tournament to become the first golf team in program history to advance to the UIL state golf tournament. 

“It has impacted us a lot because this is our first year going to state as a golf team,” La Feria senior Miah Munoz said. “It hasn’t hit us yet because we are the first team in La Feria to go to state for golf. We’re one of the best teams in history that La Feria has had. We feel a sense of pride being able to represent La Feria and the community in the right way..”

Head coach David Briones knew he had a group capable of making history this season. After coaching several individuals to state berths, Briones felt the Lionettes had the makings of what could be his first ever team qualifier. 

A big reason for his confidence was the return of four of five varsity golfers from last year’s squad, including sophomore Karina Rios, who finished 12th as an individual during the regional meet. 

Rios was the only sub-5A golfer to rank in the top 20 in the RGV in average score this season, sitting in sixth (81.7). 

Also returning for the Lionettes’ were Alliana Briones, Zoe Flores and Miah Munoz, giving La Feria a core group of returners to lead the way. 

The Lionettes finished 146-over during the regional tournament behind their top four, including a two-day score of 14-over by Rios. The sophomore finished sixth overall as an individual, the highest among the team.

La Feria’s girls golf team. (Courtesy Photo)

“Last year we were two spots away, but we knew had us four returning this year,” Briones said. “We knew we could improve and place better this year and well, we did.”

“I think all of us put in a lot of work this offseason,” Rios added. “I think last year all of us didn’t do our best at regionals. We all had a day where we struggled so bad. I think this year we learned how to get back up after struggling. … We’ve all worked on our mental game and I think that has been a difference.”

Rounding out the Lionettes’ golf team was newcomer McKayla Martinez. The sophomore golfer meshed almost seamlessly with La Feria’s returners, making them one of the most dangerous teams in the region. 

Martinez’s best moment came during the regional tournament, posting a combined two-day score of 49-over to finish as the Lionettes’ fourth best golfer of the day and help secure third place and a spot at state. 

“I was really nervous at first joining the team,” Martinez said. “Once I actually met the girls, I think we all just bonded and it’s been really great.”

“I think compared to last year, all of us just really bonded and became really close,” Rios added. “It just helped us push each other and keep each other composed at regionals. Then adding McKayla to our team, it was a great thing for our team this year. She came in and saw so much growth within the year. We’re just all so proud of her.”

Getting to state was just the first goal for the Lionettes, with the first-time state qualifier looking to leave their mark when they hit the green. 

The Class 4A girls state golf tournament is set for April 28-29 at Legends Golf Course in Kingland.

“I think it feels like a lot of pressure was taken away after getting to state,” Flores said. “Since we’re here now, we have a whole different challenge up ahead, but we already got past one mountain. I feel proud of myself and my teammates because we’re making history.”

The Lionettes are one of two girls golf teams set to represent the RGV at state golf tournaments this year. 

Edinburg Vela’s girls team secured its first team appearance in Class 5A, finishing third during the Region IV-5A golf tournament. The Sabercats record with a combined total score of 697 during the regional tournament, finishing 121-over par. 

Edinburg Vela’s girls golf team. (Photo Courtesy of RGV Golf Coaches’ Association page)

Senior Amber Martin paced the way for the Sabercats, coming in 12th individually with a combined two-day score of 162 to finish 18-over. Martin shot 16-over during the first day, improving during Day 2 with a score of 2-over.

Kylee Rocha, Rita Cruz and Jade Cavazos rounded out Edinburg Vela’s top four, finishing 31-over, 35-over and 37-over, respectively.  Sophia Valadez was the Sabercats fifth golfer during the regional tournament, finishing 51-over. Only the top four scorers from each team count towards the final combined score. 

The Sabercats are set to compete in the Class 5A girls state golf tournament April 28-29 at the Legacy Hills Golf Club in Georgetown. 

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