MariellaVirgillito

As winter sports kick into gear, the bowling team is rolling in with upgrades for a successful season of strikes and spares.

Coach Chris Dziadus and his athletes started their season with their custom bowling balls which were fitted for each player. Donated by Ted Baer, a Marian bowling enthusiast and new assistant coach, the athletes were given their custom bowling balls and bags from Bowler’s Choice. 

The bowlers also received new jerseys for their competitions due to rules from NSAA, adding numbers to jerseys.  

“Our biggest goal for this season is to improve with each practice and to hopefully qualify a few bowlers to compete at State,” Coach Dziadus said. 

With only 12 girls, the team’s dynamic is strong and encouraging. “They love to ride to practice together, get to know one another and have fun,” Coach Dziadus said. The bowling team practices every weekday, except Fridays, at Maplewood Lanes off of 101st and Maple.

Junior Jenna Blach has tried out for bowling every season since she was a freshman. While she’s only bowled during her sophomore and junior year, she “would say that if you are ever considering trying out for the bowling team, do it. To say it’s fun is an understatement. I make so many memories throughout the season,” Blach said. 

Blach had little to no experience as a beginner bowler. But with practice and time spent in the alleys, Blach is hoping to average a score of 200 by the end of the season. 

Varsity was defeated by Omaha Central at their first dual of the season on Nov. 30. Their next dual is Dec. 12 against Omaha Northwest High School at Maplewood Lanes. They hope to see support at the lanes!

Student spectators add an entirely new element to the competitive nature of bowling. The Marian spirit, encouraging chants and enthusiastic cheers would bring a level of energy and confidence to the alleys. Follow the team’s Instagram: @marianbowlingteam, and support the Crusader bowlers.