CGN Player Highlight and Interview: Maite Cantu’s Journey to Sacred Heart and the Space Coast Classic

Sacred Heart sophomore Maite Cantu enters the spring season as a key presence in the Pioneers lineup, shaped by an early start in Mexico City, steady junior development, and a calm mental approach that guides her through competition.

Originally from Mexico City, Cantu began playing golf at age six. Family trips helped introduce her to the game, as her father would take one child at a time to the golf course while the rest of the family stayed behind. She later joined a junior academy program at her home club and worked with private instructors as her interest and commitment to golf grew.

She competed regularly on the local tour in Mexico City and gained early international experience through summer events in the United States, including the Texas Mexico Cup and junior tournaments in Pinehurst.

College Recruitment and Choosing Sacred Heart

Cantu said she knew from a young age that she wanted to attend college in the United States, where she could continue to compete at a high level while pursuing academics. Her major narrowed the search. She is studying coastal and marine science, and Sacred Heart offered both the academic program and the athletic opportunity she was seeking.

The transition to college required adjustment, especially with courses taught primarily in English. She credited her teammates for helping her settle in during her first semester.

Maite Cantu Player Profile
https://sacredheartpioneers.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/maite-cantu/16589

Collegiate Development and Mental Approach

After her freshman season, Cantu returned home to Mexico and focused on consistent practice, working several days per week with her father. She also attended the Texas Mexico Cup as a captain, observing competitive play and studying how players handled pressure situations.

Mentally, Cantu said she plays her best when she removes expectations and trusts her preparation. During rounds, she tries to stay relaxed between shots, enjoy the surroundings, and reset quickly after mistakes using breathing routines and simple self talk.

CGN Interview with Maite Cantu
https://youtu.be/ggK8Wjszbqk

Event Focus

Space Coast Classic Presented by MoonGolf

The Space Coast Classic Presented by MoonGolf serves as an important early season opportunity for Sacred Heart. Cantu said the team is preparing through daily indoor practice as they train through winter conditions.

She also noted the importance of the event being livestreamed, giving her family and friends back home the chance to watch full tournament coverage.

Final Round CGN Livestream
https://www.youtube.com/live/xRPJeTplwXE

CGN Space Coast Event Page
https://cgnplus.com/space-coast-classic-host-by-moongolf/

Career Snapshot

School: Sacred Heart University
Class: Sophomore
Hometown: Mexico City, Mexico
Major: Coastal and Marine Science

Early Background
Began playing golf at age six
Developed through junior golf in Mexico City
Competed in Texas Mexico Cup and U.S. junior events

Sources

CGN Interview with Maite Cantu
Maite Cantu Player Profile
CGN Final Round Livestream
CGN Space Coast Event Page