They looked down the lanes, balls in hand, and forward was the only way to go. For Stillwater Area High School’s bowling team, they chose improvement and determination to define them. With the help of consistent and sharp bowlers, they have pulled together to create an unforgettable season for all to see.

Throughout the highs and lows of the season, they finishing strong was well-succeeded. Third place in the Metro Area earned with a record of 9-7, they hope to carry these prosperities into next year. With 11 bowlers this year, head coach Brian Gibson was able to make both a junior varsity and a varsity for the second time since 2008. But not only is there victories in numbers, but also in quality friendships. This aspect greatly exists and has helped the team every step of the way this past season. Being a fall sport, many people on the team join bowling leagues and tournaments in the off season.

Coach Gibson, with an overflow in knowledge for the sport, brings an essential aspect for the team.

“I joined an adult league with some friends and really liked it. I have learned so much about bowling over the years and really want to share that information with anyone that wants to learn more about the sport,” said Gibson.

Their wins start from the core of the team, working on fundamentals at twice a week practice. In the end, they accumulated an average score of  172.4.

Gibson said, “Working on how to adjust to what lanes are doing, footwork and timing on the approach are very important to executing a good shot. Also how to approach certain spares to increase out spare percentage.”

A bowling atmosphere is different individually, yet very inclusive. Learning from mistakes, capitalizing on their strengths and watching and learning from others is their key to reaching their maximum potentials.

“The atmosphere at the practices is pretty normal. We work on getting better and learn to pick up splits from different angles,” said Neumann. “The meets though are a little bit different. It is more intense and you have to focus more.”

Different aspects of bowling is what gives the sport its uniqueness. Being coed and open to all 7th-12th graders at the high school, gives the team its well-roundedness and welcoming with open arms. New members, experienced and unexperienced join every year, this one being one of the most. But no regrets there. Long-lasting friendships are formed at the bowling alleys and carry off into life.

Junior Rachel Neumann said, “I have been bowling for seven and a half years but this year was the first year on the high school team.”

With Rachel, four other members have achieved outstanding awards this year. She, along with Jared Taylor were given All Honors. Nick Gibson stands high in the ranks, earning All State-first team, All Conference and most outstanding player. Along with them, Tanner Attwood was honored with All Conference.

“It was wonderful and exciting to receive these awards my first year on the team,” said Neumann.

Even though the season is not in session, these committed bowlers join bowling leagues and participate in tournaments to continue improving and fulfill their love for the sport. To make the team the best it can possibly be, everyone improves themselves during the off season, and pulls together during the season. This team is like a bowling ball itself, moving fast down the lanes, no bumpers needed, in an effort to knock all pins over every time it is thrown.