Senators shoot for return trip to state

The second season for high school golfers starts today at noon when the best in Northern Nevada converge on Genoa's Resort course for the opening 18 holes of the Northern 4A Regional Tournament.

After 18 holes today, the scene shifts to Genoa's Lake course for the final 18 holes.

The top two teams and the top five individuals not on advancing teams advance to the 4A state tournament May 12-13 at the TPC-Canyons course in Las Vegas.

Carson High, which has won the Sierra League title the last three years, is hoping for a return trip to state.

The Senators, led by Jonathan Singer and Zack Rispin, will be competing with Spanish Springs, Bishop Manogue, Fallon and Galena for the top two spots.

Spanish Springs is the favorite. The Cougars placed six in the top 19 at the recent Carson Invitational, winning the event by more than 30 shots. They are led by Zach Beebe, Ren Wilson, Robert Perea and Scott Kelly.

Carson coach Rod Butler says the Cougars are the team to beat, and that he's more worried about beating out Galena, Manogue and Fallon for the last team slot.

"We're definitely going to have to shoot better," Butler said last week. "I think we'll have to shoot better than 400 (as a team) both days. The team or teams that shoot under 400 both days will move on."

Singer has been solid all season, and is coming off a rund of 4-over 76 at Silver Oak which earned him medalist honors at the final Sierra League tournament. Rispin has been in the low 80s, but has a 70 this year, and certainly is capable of shooting in the mid-to-high 70s.

The key for Carson will be Ryan Livermore, Isaac Holt, Jordan Rogers and Sam Staub. For the Senators to have a shot to win, they need to keep their scores no higher than 82 or 83. Much will depend on the weather, which could be a great equalizer.

Staub talked last week about the Senators' confidence after winning their third straight league championship. He maintains that the team has built up momentum after last week's victory.

Douglas' Thomas Wicker has a solid opportunity to qualify as an individual. He was red-hot on the front side last week at Silver Oak with a 1-under-par 34, but soared to a 50 on the back side. He is more than capable of shooting less than 80 on his home course.

• Contact Darrell Moody at dmoody@nevadaappeal.com, or by calling (775) 881-1281

IF YOU GO

WHEN: Today and Tuesday

WHAT: Northern Regional 4A Tournament

WHERE: Genoa Resort and Lakes courses

AT STAKE: This will determine the entrants for next week's state tournament at the TPC-Canyons course in Las Vegas