Player Spotlight: Ben Perko - On the Course for Pueblo Central
Pueblo Central Golf | Senior
Four years. Five individual top-10 finishes. Three top-five finishes. One team championship.
For Pueblo Central senior Ben Perko, golf has become about much more than the scorecard. As he enters the final stretch of his high school golf career, Perko has put together what he describes as his best season yet–and he’s having plenty of fun along the way.
On The Course
Years Playing Golf at Central: 4
High School Golf Highlights:
1 Team Tournament Championship
5 individual top-10 finishes
3 individual top-5 finished
*Senior Season in progress
Best Round This Season:
Score of 78 at the South Invitational at Elmwood Golf Course, his home course, where he tied for 7th place.
Biggest Improvement:
Perko says his overall ball striking with his irons has been the biggest improvement in his game this season.
How would you describe your senior season?
“I would describe it as my best season over the 4 years. I’ve improved a lot, made a strong connection with my teammates and coach, and had a lot of fun overall.”
That connection with his teammates is a big reason Perko enjoys representing Central.
“I enjoy playing golf for Central High School not only because it’s a fun hobby, but because of my teammates and coach who push me to get better.”
And apparently, his teammates know exactly how to get him out on the course.
“I’ve never had a time where one of my friends asked me to go play and I didn’t want to go. They make golf overall a way more fun and challenging game.”
Ben’s Golf Superstition
Every golfer has their thing.
For Perko, it’s his phone…..and his left pocket.
His phone has to be in his left pocket every round.
“I have to golf with my phone in my left pocket every round or I feel like I don’t do as well.”
So if you see Ben walking the course with his phone tucked into his left pocket, don’t question it. It’s part of the routine.
More than Golf
Golf isn’t the only sport Perko plays at Pueblo Central.
He’s also involved in baseball, where he had a stellar junior season for the Wildcats last spring.
When he’s not on the golf course or baseball field, Perko enjoys keeping things simple:
Family. Friends. Fishing. Movies.
He says spending time with his family and friends is one his favorite things to do away from sports, and fishing gives him another way to spend time outdoors.
The People Behind the Player
When asked who has had the biggest impact on his athletic career, Perko didn’t hesitate.
His parents.
“I wouldn’t be where I was if it wasn’t for them. They’ve been supporting me since I was young and they are all in for me trying new things.”
That support has allowed Perko to explore different sports and activities while continuing to grow as an athlete and person.
Almost to the 18th Green
After four years at Central, he’s already built a solid golf resume.
But this season has meant more than just numbers.
It’s been about improving his game, building relationships with his teammates and coach, competing alongside his friends and, most importantly, enjoying the game.
And if Ben Perko has anything to say about it, he’ll be doing all of that with his phone safely tucked into this left pocket.
Quick Hits With Ben
Other Sport: Baseball
Favorite Off-Day Activities: Family, friends, fishing and movies.
Biggest Influence: Parents
Best Round This Season: 78
Best Finish This Season: Tied for 7th
Comments