Highlands Bowling Birds knock out Newport Central Catholic in season opener

Julianna Russ

Senior Greta Noble, a new bowler this year, pulls a bowling ball from the rack in preparation for her turn on the lane.

     On Tuesday, January 12, the Highlands High School bowling team competed in their first match of the season against Newport Central Catholic High School (NCC) at Bellewood Lanes.

     The Bowling Birds struck a decisive victory, earning six of the seven points available to sweep NCC. The team won three of the four regular games, both Baker Games (where five bowlers bowl on the same lane), and also came out on top with the overall pin count. 

     Standouts from the team included seniors Tessa Killen and Abby Bach, both veteran bowlers. Their high scores of the day were 213 and 165, respectively. 

     Most members of the team never bowled before this year, so the win was especially meaningful. This opener sets the stage for the Birds as they prepare for more matches and tournaments in the future.

     One new player, senior Ellie Rowland, looks forward to the rest of the season, saying, “I’m pretty happy with how today’s match went. I feel like there are definitely things I could have done better, but I’m proud of how much I’ve improved since we started practicing. I can’t wait to see how I can continue to grow my skills as the season progresses.”

     The season is definitely shaping up to be competitive, as the new bowlers are as talented as they are eager to improve. This spirit, combined with the experience of the veteran bowlers on the team, will prove helpful as they continue to match up against various opponents in the weeks to come. 

     The Bowling Birds’ next match is co-ed. It will take place on Thursday, January 14, against Bishop Brossart High School at Southern Lanes.