Palmquist helps Centennial boys answer questions, return to regionals

Centennial’s boys golf team faced plenty of doubts after losing five of last season’s top seven players to graduation.

The Bulldogs found the answer to most of their questions in newcomer Justin Palmquist.

Palmquist, a junior, joined Centennial’s team this season after moving from Hollister, Calif., to Las Vegas 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,” Centennial 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, along with the top five individuals from non-qualifying 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 aspect of his game.

“They’ve all helped mentally,” he said. “Just in everything (like) 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.”