Boudreau’s career-low round helps QND girls golf team capture third consecutive regional crown

September 29, 2022 | By Matt Schuckman, Sports Editor

Quincy Notre Dame golfer Hana Knuffman sizes up her putt on the 15th hole Thursday at Arrowhead Heights Golf Course in Camp Point, Ill., during the Class 1A Central Regional. | Matt Schuckman photo

CAMP POINT, Ill. — Hana Knuffman understands the Quincy Notre Dame girls golf team doesn’t have to rely on the same golfers day in and day out to post competitive scores.

It’s the kind of depth that makes postseason success possible.

“We have really good chemistry with each other, which makes it that we know coming back from a tough round we have each other’s backs,” said Knuffman, a senior and the Raiders’ No. 1 player. “We know what everyone is capable of, and we’re confident in everybody.”

Thursday, freshman Belle Boudreau showed why confidence is so high.

She put three birdies on her scorecard, parred the par-4 18th after a struggle on the par-3 17th and posted a career-low 87 at Arrowhead Heights Golf Course to finish fourth individually and lead the Raiders to their third straight regional championship.

“It makes me excited for her future years and sad that I’m not going to be there,” Knuffman said. “I am definitely very proud of her.”

QND posted a 351 team total to win the Class 1A Central Regional, while Pittsfield finished second at 435. Petersburg PORTA was third at 447.

Those three teams will play in Monday’s Class 1A Lincoln Sectional at the Lincoln Elks. The top three teams from the 12-team field advance to the state tournament, being played October 7-8 at Red Tail Run Golf Course in Decatur.

Knuffman finished second individually with an 81 as Athens junior Catalina Easley shot a 75. QND senior Blair Eftink was fifth with an 89 and Raiders sophomore Meredith Eversman was seventh with a 94. Sophomore Ellie Price was ninth with a 97.

To get as many scores in the 80s as needed to advance to state, Knuffman knows what is needed on Monday.

“A solid short game,” she said. “Just keeping your mind on the game at all times and not getting distracted.”

Pittsfield sophomore Hannah Williams finished eighth with a 96, while senior Laura Williams finished 15th with a 100.

Two other area products advanced to the sectional as individuals. Unity’s Addison Wetzel shot a 106 and Southeastern’s Shelby Stout shot a 107.