Striking out is a loss in every other sport, but strikes are what led the Lake Ridge Girls Varsity Bowling Team to state. This is not the first time the bowling team has made it to state, so current players are carrying on that legacy all the way to Euless, Texas, where the competition takes place on March 28. As the competition approaches, the bowlers continue to practice and prepare for their state competition.
Making it to a state-level competition is a huge accomplishment, especially considering the bowling team’s past history of going to state. Junior Abigail Milligan is thrilled to compete at state again with new team members.
“I’m pretty excited. I’ve been [to state] all three years that I’ve been here, and I think it’s really cool that we get to keep the experience going, because we lost some pretty big pieces of the team last year. So I’m excited that we get this opportunity with the new people,” Milligan said.
The state competition is exciting for new players too. They get to show off their skills while experiencing the glory of the achievement for the first time. Senior S. Morales is glad the team went to state this year as it’s Morales’ first, and last, year on the team.
“It feels really cool. I’m really proud of my team. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished this year. I’m very excited, because this is my first year on the team, so I’m excited to have the opportunity to experience it,” Morales said.
Going to state requires a lot of dedication, practice, and motivation, which the bowling team has in spades. Junior G. Jackson believes that the amount of practice the team had helped them make it to the state competition.
“We had practiced every Monday and Thursday up until this point. We also already had really seasoned players on the team, and I just joined this year, but I think I did pretty good,” Jackson said.
Going to state can be an emotional affair as players battle nerves and excitement. Morales is anxious about state, but loves bowling enough to overcome those nerves and go all out for the competition.
“I am a little nervous, but I’m also really excited. We’ve been taking a break off practice after regionals, but I’m really excited to get back out there and practice so that I can give my best effort when we do go to state. Overall, I really love bowling. There have been ups and downs, but I find a lot of joy in it,” Morales said.
After years of going to state, the bowling team has a history of doing well in competitions. This has created a kind of legacy Milligan feels she needs to keep alive, causing a bit of anxiety.
“There’s a pressure that’s been lingering there because we’ve been to state so much, so I kind of feel a duty to keep that tradition going,” Milligan said.
State competitions allow teams to thrive to their fullest extent. Morales hopes to win, and appreciates the bowling team’s welcoming attitude that allows talent to grow.
“The best part is we could win. I want to win. I also really appreciate our team and everyone on it. Everyone there is very skilled and has put in a lot of work this season, and I’m proud of each and every one of them,” Morales said.
A state competition is an honor that comes with many upsides, whether it be the pride of winning, more time with your teammates, or the chance to travel. Junior Juliette Hanshaw is most glad she gets another chance to compete with her team.
“The best part is getting to go with my team, being able to keep competing with our seniors that are leaving, and just have a fun time,” Hanshaw said.
Through consistent practice, the bowling team celebrates their continuous streak of going to state competitions. This opportunity brings the players more than pride as they get to spend time making memories and playing a sport they love with their teammates.
