Petal Hammam ’25 was a four-year Senior from New York City, co-captain of Girls Varsity Golf and member of Varsity Volleyball and Girls JV Squash. Outside of athletics, Petal could often be found in the ceramics studio and she took Honors Ceramics Portfolio.
Head Coach Doug Kneeland said, “Petal is the most mentally strong golfer I’ve ever coached. She leads by example, takes responsibility, and never blames others or the conditions. She’s consistent in both her swing and her mindset. Her pre-game meditations have changed the way we mentally prepare for matches.”
Teammate Sienna Hwang ’27 said, “Petal was one of the first people here who really saw me. She supported me as a younger player and helped me believe I could belong here. She gave me the courage to keep pursuing my golf career. She’s not just a great golfer, she’s a great leader who checks in with people and always tells the truth with kindness.”
How did you start playing golf?
I don’t remember a time when Iwasn’t playing golf. It was always around me. My parents signed me up for summer camps, and we always went out as a family. I played tournaments from ages eight to eleven, but I took a break afterward to focus on other interests. I came back in middle school and started competing again with a better mindset.
What drew you back to golf after that break?
As I grew, I realized how much I enjoyed the time between shots— walking, talking, and connecting with people. It became a way to build relationships, not just a competition. During middle school, Eliza Dana ’23, who I grew up playing golf with, introduced me to Hotchkiss and the Girls Varsity Golf team. The moment I stepped onto the golf team was magical; all the players welcomed me like a friend and a sister. I felt at home.
What have you learned through your time on the team and at the school?
You have to accept that not every round will go your way. I used to get really frustrated when things didn’t go perfectly, but I’ve learned to let go and keep moving. Golf teaches you patience and resilience. Being a member of the community here sometimes pressured me to be good at all aspects of life: academics, athletics, and art. But it is okay to be not okay. I always tell myself: after a bad day, there is a good day coming. That lesson helped me on and off the course, and I appreciate this community for teaching it to me.
What has being a co-captain meant to you?
It has been a challenge, for sure, but a rewarding one. I wanted to be a captain who created a supportive environment but also told people the truth. One of my favourite things we did was pre- match meditations. We’d set intentions and take a minute to rest. Seeing that become part of our culture has been really meaningful. I even saw other teams pick it up!
Do you plan to continue playing golf in college and afterwards?
I am thinking of walking on to the team at Middlebury, but either way, I will definitely keep playing. Golf has become a lifelong sport for me. Even when I am not competing, I know I will always come back to it.
What advice would you give to younger golfers?
Be patient with yourself. Golf can be frustrating, and it takes time to improve, but progress happens in small steps. Also, don’t isolate yourself. Talk to your teammates, play with people who make you laugh and smile, and enjoy the game beyond the score.
