Rye Girls Varsity Golf head coach Rich Savage has named his MVP for the 2026 season: sophomore Leila Kubursi.
“Although only a sophomore, Kurbusi consistently demonstrated the poise, maturity, and leadership of a veteran player,” Savage told MyRye.com. “Throughout the season, she served as one of the Garnets’ most dependable golfers, delivering strong performances in key matches while helping lead Rye to a league championship.”
During the regular season, one of Kurbusi’s most memorable performances came against Ursuline. The sophomore rose to the occasion an earned low medalist honors, posting the team’s best score and helping secure a league championship for the Garnets.
“Leila played well all season, but what impressed us most was her ability to perform under pressure,” Savage said on behalf of the entire coaching staff. “Whether it was a critical league match or postseason competition, she remained calm, focused, and confident.”
Thanks to the underclassman’s keen ability to improve as a given round went along, she consistently carded the best sore on her team and in the match. Her most impressive achievement from the spring was being Rye’s only representative on the second day of the sectional tournament after a top-20 score on day one. That mark helped will the Garnets to a third-place finish in Section 1. By the end of day two, Kubursi earned 17th place overall among all golfers in the area, most of whom were upperclassmen.
After two excellent seasons on the varsity team, Kubursi will enter 2027 as one of the best golfers in the section. She has already been selected as a team captain for next year. As her teammates and coaches know well, Kubursi carries an excellent attitude to complement her excellent golfing abilities.
“Beyond her scores, Kurbusi earned the respect of her teammates through her work ethic, dedication, and positive attitude,” Savage said. “Her commitment to improving her game each day helped set the standard for the entire program.”
The Garnets will return a talented roster in 2027, with Kurbusi leading the way. The team will once again have its sights set on competing for league and postseason success, and will depend on their star junior to guide them.
