By: Cali McPeak & Abi Lenze
Not many students are aware of Southeast’s bowling team, for it’s not a very well-known sport, and is not very marketed within the school; however, this year they are reaching an all-time high point-wise and are incredibly promising as a group. The Southeast High School bowling team launched this season with real promise. They had dropped their opening match by a slim one-point margin. That tight loss showed their grit and determination, for right afterwards, they had grabbed a solid win in match two. Momentum now rolls their way by a mile.
One of their promising players, Freshman Emily Morrison, stepped up big for the Lady Pirates. She just recently topped the team with a 304 game series score. For a new face on the team, that mark sets a strong tone and image for the entire group. The roster grew incredibly fast this year. Six players returned from last season, while seven fresh talents joined. The team more than doubled in size. Juniors Sophia McKibben, Lizzie Mix, Kinsley Luke, and Laine Streem came back ready after last year. Sophomores Anna Holstein and MaKayla Diehl add experience as well. Seniors Sarah Craver, Penelopei Sutliff, Aubree Varga, and Kylee Mayville bring leadership as newcomers, while Freshmen Emily Morrison, Emma Smith, and Bailey Adamski fill out the squad with energy.
Streem said, “Having (the team) more than doubled gives us more opportunities to make friends within the team, be able to teach each other what we know, and gives us more flexibility when attending matches”. Veterans help to pass on tips, like sparing pickups or when to hook shots. And rookies share fresh eyes as well. Lineups and matching them, gain more options for success. When someone is sick, it is easier to put others in. A bigger team helps the entire group way, way, way more.Streem also shared that, despite bowling not being a typical sport, hard work and technique still play a major role in the team’s performance. “Every bowling alley has a different oil pattern on its lanes. Your ball will react differently at every single bowling alley… You have to do test throws when you’re not at your home alley and adjust your placement depending on how the ball reacts.”
The bowling team is built on positivity, support, and instruction, creating a structured yet upbeat environment where athletes can thrive. Coach Mike Hammond says, “I focus on building strong fundamentals while encouraging athletes to think, ask questions, and take ownership of their improvement”. The team’s expectations are clear: give your best effort, stay focused, and demonstrate sportsmanship, respect, and teamwork. Off the lanes, athletes are expected to maintain good academic habits and represent the team with respect. Key qualities a Coach looks for in a bowler include coachability, effort, focus, and a positive attitude. The team’s goal is to grow together, build consistency and confidence, and develop solid fundamentals and mental toughness. Through dedication and mindset, each athlete can achieve measurable progress and pride in their accomplishments. Good luck to our lady Pirates!
The Pirate Post 