Bulldogs pin Sunset hopes on Palmquist

Centennial's boys golf team entered the season with plenty of doubts after losing five of its top seven players to graduation.

Justin Palmquist provided the answer to the Bulldogs' most pressing question.

Palmquist, a junior, joined Centennial's team this season after moving from Hollister, Calif., in April 2009. He has emerged as the Bulldogs' leader with a stroke average of 76.2.

"You don't know what to expect before the season starts, but you could tell (Palmquist) was good," coach Greg Bohls said. "He's a real calm, relaxed kid. It doesn't seem like anything fazes him too much."

The Bulldogs open the Sunset Region tournament today at Siena Golf Club. The Sunrise tourney also begins today at Dragon Ridge Country Club.

Both regions will play the final round Wednesday at Mountain Falls Golf Club in Pahrump. The top two teams from each region, as well as the top five individuals from nonqualifying teams, will qualify for the Class 4A state tournament, which begins May 17 at TPC Las Vegas.

Centennial is hoping to close stronger than last season, when rival Palo Verde edged the Bulldogs by six strokes for the Sunset title. The Bulldogs' postseason quest will start with Palmquist.

"I'm excited. I moved to such a good team," Palmquist said. "We've got as much opportunity as anyone to take it."

Palmquist credited Bohls and the team's top two returning veterans with helping him improve the mental aspects of his game, including "course management and how to handle my emotions on the course."

Seniors Brad Rowland (78.2 stroke average) and Greg Kerber (79.2) also will be key for Centennial.

Bohls is confident in his team, but knows this week's task will be daunting.

"Palo Verde is sure playing well right now," he said. "I know Pahrump and Desert Oasis are playing well, and Faith Lutheran is coming on. You can't look too far ahead."

Contact reporter Tristan Aird at taird@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-5203.