After losing their first 3 games, the Boys Bowling team’s morale was at an all-time low. They struggled to score high against tough opponents such as Taft and Lincoln Park. Through this adversity, the boys rallied together with a powerful speech from Coach Nick Maksa. On Monday, December 4, the team would finally see their luck turn around.
They were scheduled to play Amundsen High School, an underdog team with a lot of spirit. The boys found the spark they had been searching for and were able to pull a 2-1 victory over Amundsen, winning by a total of just over 300 pins. When asked about the team’s first win, Sr. Colin Kohler stated “We finally found our groove, most of us are new to this so we just needed to find our routines and get consistent. I’m really looking forward to the rest of the season.” It’s clear that the team’s morale is at an all-time high. After talking to the team myself, I can see just how excited they were to finally get the victory they’ve been seeking.
Impressive performances from Sr. Henry Reiland, scoring the team high for the day of 187, and Fr. Ben Phillips, averaging 145 on the day, led to the team’s first win. When asked about his personal high on the season, Sr. Henry Reiland said “It feels great to perform to the level that I’m capable of. I love having this great group of guys around me that continue to encourage and support me throughout the season.” During the first game of the matchup, the boys scored their highest total pins of the year, adding up to a total of 662 pins.
With only 3 games left of the season before playoffs, the team is hoping to turn this season around and be able to win against high-level teams, including Lane Tech and Walter Payton. When asked about his thoughts on the team’s future, Sr. Ben Smith declared “If there’s any team that’s able to shift gears and start winning, it’s us. We have great players that are toning their skills. I really believe we have a chance at winning the remainder of our games.” If the team keeps their strengths and listens to Coach Nick Maksa, they have the opportunity to really change the pace.
Come watch the boys at their senior night on Monday, December 18, at 4:00 P.M. against Phoenix Military Academy at Waveland Bowl.
