By JODY WYNNEMER

Staff Writer

The NRHEG Panther golf teams have had a rough go of it this spring. More often than not, their matches have been played in the wind, rain or both.

Last Thursday was no different as they played host to the Rebels from United South Central at Riverview Golf Course in New Richland. A stiff breeze and temps in the low 40s led to some difficult scoring conditions.

USC 228, NRHEG girls 235

Several of the Panther golfers encountered a few tough breaks on the links as the Rebels finished with a seven-stroke margin. USC’s Ali Wood had a 50 to capture medalist honors. Maddy Reed was low for NRHEG with a 54. Abby Holland (58), Michaela Hansen (59) and Brina Bergland (63) rounded out the scoring.

NRHEG boys 176, USC 187

Panther senior Jon Walstrom came out firing as he was one-under-par until he dumped one in the water on No. 3, but held on and finished with a 41 to lead the scoring on the boys’ side. Aaron Patraw was one stroke back with a 42. Matt Nafe (45) and Spencer Hanna (48) also figured in the Panther’s total. Sam Gackstetter was low for USC with a 46.

“The boys continue to do well,” said coach Brad Root. “Jon [Walstrom] was medalist again. Good news from the JV team was Cole Lenort who had a 45 and will be moving to varsity.”

The Panthers face the Triton Cobras at Dodge Center Tuesday, May 3. They play host to JWP Wednesday, May 4.