The girls bowling team made history this season by winning their second state championship in a row, proving how far teamwork and dedication can take them.
For Ashlin Teves (12), the team’s success wasn’t just about one moment; it was about how they grew together all season. “I think it was a compilation of a lot of moments throughout the season,” Teves (12) said. “We were just able to gel so well as a team all season that when it came time for state, it was honestly just easy to work together.”
Alexis Born (12) agreed, saying the weeks leading up to state really helped bring the team together. “We took our practices really seriously, and we were really focusing on hitting our mark and being consistent,” Born (12) said. “Regionals and sectionals were the first time all of us were actually together, so that helped us become a team.”
During state, the team stayed focused by supporting each other and not getting distracted. “We all just kind of made sure that we were in the moment together,” Teves (12) said. “Even if you’re not bowling, pay attention so you can be as supportive as possible.”
Born added, “we tried to focus only on our team and what we were doing. We didn’t really worry about what other teams were doing, which was definitely a good thing.”
Both seniors said what made this team different was how close everyone was. “I feel like this tear was very drama free,” Teves (12) said. “We all just got along, and it was easy for us to be a team.”
Born (12) said, “Our team is closer than most others. We were all super close, no drama, and we all liked each other, so that definitely helped.”
There were also some big moments during state that stood out. Teves talked about the final frame, “We knew we had won. It was really special to watch everyone bowl their last shot, and we were all pretty emotional after that.”
Born remembered a comeback game, “We started off not good at all, but we managed to refocus and shot a 903 that game. At the beginning, we were looking at an 800, so that was really big for us.”
Winning state meant a lot, especially for the seniors. “We took fifth, third, and fifth before,” Teves (12) said. “So to come junior and senior year and win back to back, that’s pretty special.”
Both players say they’ve learned a lot from being on the team. “You can’t win a tournament by yourself,” Teves (12) said. “It’s a team effort,” Born (12) said, “You put so much pressure on yourself, you have to trust your teammates and know they have your back.”
As they get ready to graduate, both seniors hope the younger players keep the program going strong. “If you want something, you have to go get it,” Teves (12) said. “Don’t ever give up,” Born (12) said. “Don’t go into every tournament assuming you’re going to win. You have to put forth the effort and a team.”
With back to back state titles and a close team bond, the girls bowling team has set a high standard for the future.
