Panthers Qualify Entire Team for Districts, Sauer Takes Solo Second at League Tournament

The Bonney Lake Panthers boys golf team proved they belong among the SPSL’s elite this week, qualifying their entire varsity lineup for the District Tournament after a strong showing at the SPSL 4A League Tournament at Gold Mountain. Led by senior Kohen Sauer’s solo second-place finish, the Panthers are now preparing for the next challenge at Meadow Park next week.

Sauer, who entered the tournament as one of the top-ranked golfers in the league, showed resilience and maturity throughout the two-day event. Day one started rough, with two early double bogeys on the front nine leaving him 5-over. But the senior responded in signature fashion—carding four birdies on the back nine to finish the day at +2 and in solo third. Day two mirrored day one with two more double bogeys on the front, but Sauer kept his composure and finished the round at +3, ending the tournament with a 74-75 for a total of 149 and a solo second-place finish out of 68 golfers.

Sophomore Stephen Lucash also had an outstanding tournament, firing back-to-back rounds of 79 to secure a 7th-place finish. Lucash's consistency across both days was a huge boost for Bonney Lake and proved that the Panthers have more than just top-end talent—they’ve got depth.

Senior Hudson Rogel delivered a pair of steady 88s across the two rounds. While he didn’t light up the leaderboard, his experience and consistency helped secure a spot at Districts. Junior Luke Nelson bounced back impressively from a tough opening round of 93, firing an 83 on day two to clinch his berth. Freshman Alexander Ekberg, playing in his first league tournament, stayed composed with a 91-88, showing poise well beyond his years.

Senior Cameron Frey will still head to the District Tournament as an individual competitor after shooting 88 and 97. While only five players can compete as a team, Frey’s qualification ensures he will represent Bonney Lake independently. His contributions all season long were critical to the Panthers’ regular-season success, and his presence remains valuable heading into the postseason.

All eyes now turn to the District Tournament, which takes place next Tuesday and Wednesday at Meadow Park Golf Course. With their full lineup moving on, Bonney Lake has the depth, experience, and momentum to make a serious run at qualifying for State at Hawks Prairie the following week.