Bob Hopkins, the seasoned girls’ golf coach at Pahrump Valley High School (PVHS), has a rich and extensive coaching career that spans decades and multiple states. His journey in coaching began in 1980 at Bennett County High School in Martin, South Dakota, where he coached both boys’ and girls’ golf. “We were a high school of about 180 students, and we had anywhere from 25 to 40 kids come out for golf,” Hopkins recalled. His early success was marked by winning the state B championship for girls’ golf in 1984, 1985, and 1986, followed by a state championship in boys’ golf in 1988.
In 1990, Hopkins moved to Pahrump and joined the local golf community, assisting with boys’ golf alongside Al Gianotti and Larry Goins, his former colleague from Bennett County. Despite moving back to South Dakota for a period, Hopkins returned to Pahrump in 1997, where he resumed his teaching and coaching career. By 2001, he became the head boys’ golf coach and later assisted the girls’ then head coach Julie Floyd before transitioning head coach after Floyd’s retirement in 2014.
Hopkins’ coaching career at PVHS has been filled with memorable moments and significant achievements. When Hopkins’ was assisting Floyd, his daughters were both part of State Championship teams. “It was a true highlight of my career when both of my daughters were on State Championship Teams when I was assistant coach to Julie, and also when we won 3 state Championships in a row,” he recalled. He also proudly shared, “We won the regional tournament four years in a row and would have been five if not for COVID.” One of the most heartbreaking yet memorable moments was in the state tournament when the team, led by then-sophomore Breanne Nygaard, had a 13-stroke lead after the first day but ended up finishing second. The following year (2019), the team secured second place in state again by outplaying Boulder City on their home course.
State runner-up
Looking forward to the upcoming season, Hopkins is focused on developing a young team. “This year, I only have one returning player, Aliana (Ali) Zuniga, who finished sixth in the state tournament last year, one stroke behind then Senior Emily Gent. We have a total of six girls signed up, and I’m hoping to develop their skills and get them around the course successfully,” he explained.
Hopkins emphasizes the importance of practice and the life lessons golf can teach. “The greatest thing about golf is that it teaches you how life works. It’s just you and that little white ball, and you can’t blame things on anybody else,” he said. His practice sessions typically involve putting, driving range exercises, and chipping practice, with an emphasis on individual improvement.
When discussing his coaching philosophy, Hopkins highlighted the significance of enjoying the game and personal growth. “I always tell them to just go out and have fun. Golf is something you can do for a lifetime. It teaches you composure and how to get along with people,” he remarked. His goal is to see his players not only excel in the sport but also become better individuals.
Hopkins is also quick to acknowledge the exceptional facilities at Mountain Falls, which play a pivotal role in the success of the PVHS golf teams. He credits Elliott Owens, a former player of his, for providing unparalleled support and access to this high-quality course. “Mountain Falls is an awesome course, and they treat us great,” Hopkins shared, emphasizing how the facility’s top-notch amenities and Owens’ willingness to assist have greatly benefited the students. This partnership ensures that the PVHS golfers have the opportunity to practice and compete on a premier course, enhancing their skills and overall golfing experience, giving them a slight advantage to other teams that may not have that kind of access.
Despite challenges such as maintaining team depth and getting enough players, Hopkins remains optimistic. This season, Hopkins anticipates a great season and continued growth for Zuniga. “I think she’s going to have a great season, and I think she will improve at the state level as well.” For the new members of the team, who may not have the same level of experience, he plans to host more dual matches and focus on individual skill development to keep the team motivated. “I want the kids to learn the game and have fun. If they become really good at it, that’s great, but the main thing is for them to enjoy themselves and improve,” he stated.
Hopkins does hope more girls will develop an interest in golf and give the team a try. Girls interested can stop by assistance coach Mr. Nygaard’s classroom at PVHS for more information or to ask any questions they might have. Especially girls who aren’t already committed to a fall sport. “I don’t want to poach any players from other sports, but I’d love to see more of the softball girls who don’t play a fall sport come out,” Hopkins stated. “We’ve had several successful cross-overs between golf and softball and I’d like to see more.”
Reflecting on his extensive coaching career, which includes over 637 wins in girls’ basketball alone, Hopkins’ dedication to his players and the sport is evident. His commitment to fostering a positive and enriching environment for his athletes continues to make a lasting impact on PVHS’s girls’ golf program.
In addition to his coaching success, Hopkins is keen on the community aspect of the sport. “We used to run a great Junior Golf program here, and I’d love to see it get going again. Golf is a fantastic sport, and it’s important for the younger kids to have those opportunities,” he said.
As the new season approaches, Coach Hopkins and Coach Nygaard are ready to guide their team with a trademark blend of expertise, encouragement, and a focus on personal development, ensuring that PVHS continues to shine in the world of girls’ golf.
