BY ELISA CIOKU
Coming off a surprise run to the NJSIAA Central Jersey Group IV Finals, the boys bowling team will look to build on last year’s late-season success with most of the team returning. The girls, who dominated to a 20-3 record last year, will look to rebuild around the two returning contributors from last year.
The girls face a challenge this year since they lost more than half their roster, forcing them to find new players who can replace the old players. “It is sad that we lost so many seniors last season because they made up more than half of our team, but I have hope that there is going to be more interest in the sport this season, and we will continue their legacy,” shared junior, Eleni Kyrifides who had an average of 126.69 last season.
Now that a small number of returning players remain on the girls team, the new players will need to step up. “I think this season will be all about teaching the new players,” shared junior Savanah Funk, who had 8,968 total pins last season. “This is a rebuilding season for us because we lost so many seniors.”
On the other hand, the boys lost only one senior from last season. “I feel that since we don’t have them anymore, we need to play with 120% effort,” said sophomore Mason Sorrentino who had a 179.84 average last season. “Our senior was a big part of the team, so, to make up for it, we need to bowl better than ever before.”
After the boys lost to North Brunswick with a score of 2-1, in the final round of states, they became more motivated to improve. “My expectations for this season set higher than normal because my teammates have been practicing all summer, and I have been too,” shared Sorrentino. “We are going to have a winning record this season, and I believe we can win a few tournaments even though we lost our senior from last year. We are practicing even harder to make up for it.”
The boys have made sure they’re ready for the new season by learning from all their mistakes and becoming stronger together. “We have been practicing together and realizing each other’s mistakes to prevent them in the future,” shared senior Dominic Rodriguez, who finished second on the team with 8,992 total pins.
After losing to Woodbridge in the GMC finals last season, the girls know they will do better this year. “For GMCs this year, I feel excited,” said Kyrifides. “It is an opportunity for us to show our skills.”
The teams officially start their seasons after Thanksgiving break. Come support them and wish them luck in their first match against Woodbridge on December 2 at Majestic Lanes at 4pm.
Posted on 11/26/24
Photos by Lors Photography
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