Following a successful last season, the bowling team hopes to add new members to all teams. Head bowling coach Leland Mallett hosted a Bowling Mixer on Sept. 10 to encourage community among the team. He will conduct tryouts for all teams on Sept. 29 at International Training & Research Center (ITRC) from 5-7 p.m.
“Bowling is for anyone,” Coach Mallett said. “We have a girls and boys varsity team with six players and have an unlimited amount of space for JV players. If you like to bowl, it’s the place to be.”
Coming off of competing at state in May, the team hopes to continue their success. Practicing twice a week allows the team to build their confidence and fine tune their skills. The teams will compete almost weekly in district play to work toward advancing to larger competitions.
“I think going to state just validates who we are and that we’re good, and hopefully we get people interested in joining us,” Coach Mallett said. “Both teams are always full of energy and have a lot of fun even when we’re not doing well.”
Boys team captain senior Luke Lenamond bowls in a local league every Saturday. He believes his efforts allow him to strengthen his skills in time for the school season.
“Consistency is key for bowling. I plan on bowling more often when the season comes around so I can stay in shape and lead by example,” Lenamond said. “For bowling, leading by example is the best way to lead, as it spreads confidence, technique, and experience.”
Falling short at state last season motivated Lenamond to advance further in competition. He hopes to advance to state this year in both singles and as a team.
“Obviously the momentum created from going to state last year is tremendous. We set the bar high for ourselves and expect to reach it,” Lenamond said. “I believe in our bowling team. We have great potential and past success.”
The team looks to younger players to carry their success. As only two seniors remain, Lenamond believes the underclassmen will help achieve their goals.
“Our team looks toward a bright future with our younger members, but also have experienced upperclassmen,” Lenamond said. “It keeps me motivated that I’m not the only leader, senior, or best bowler, so while some of our team may look towards me for inspiration, I still have teammates to look up to when I need it.”
The boys team only lost one player to graduation last year. A familiar team will allow the boys to strengthen their bond and compete in a comfortable setting. The girls team lacked participation as only five girls competed. Coach Mallett hopes to grow the teams by emphasizing the entertaining environment.
“I plan to keep building what we started last year with the boys team,” Coach Mallett said. “They went to state and did really well. We’re still rebuilding on the girls side. mostly just quality practice spending lots of time at the bowling alley.”
