For Westside freshman Jackson Wordekemper, bowling is not just about scores on a screen but about the challenge that comes with competition. Facing tough opponents and high-pressure moments is what fuels his passion for the sport.
“I would say the thing I enjoy most is the thrill of going against a difficult opponent,” Wordekemper said. “The rush I get when defeating someone that I know is probably better than I am is a great feeling and makes the sport so much more fun, especially at bigger tournaments like when I went to nationals this past July.”
While the competition excites him, Jackson believes success in bowling depends on more than physical ability. He says many people underestimate the importance of mindset in the sport.
“The hardest part that most people wouldn’t think of about bowling is the mental aspect,” Wordkemper said. “It is downright more important than the physical aspect, and I have both won and lost because of mental games over physical games many times.”
That mental focus has helped Wordkemper grow not only as an athlete but as a person too. Through both strong performances and hard days, he says bowling has taught him humility.
“Bowling has helped me a lot as a person, but I would say that the biggest aspect is humility,” Wordkemper said. “I have seen a lot of people who think they are the best and then bowl awfully that day or end up with nobody wanting them to win because they are too hot headed.”
Wordkemper’s preparation has translated into success during his freshman season. Despite his young age, he has already taken on a big role and has had major accomplishments like already breaking a school record.
“My season is going great so far,” Wordkemper said. “I made anchor for varsity, I have bowled two very high games and have broken a school record as well.”
From the coaching staff’s perspective, Wordkemper’s growth has been clear since the beginning of the season. His ability to listen and adapt has helped him earn trust quickly.
“First year is going well,” Westside bowling coach Troy Whitmarsh said. “He [Wordkemper] takes instruction very well, is open to trying new things and communicates on any changes he feels he needs to make during his matches.”
Being coachable has helped Wordkemper perform in challenging moments. Even at a young age, he has shown he can handle pressure and step up when needed.
“He has bowled in some high-profile tournaments, on some challenging sport patterns,” Whitmarsh said. “For being young, he has experienced pressure and understands when it’s time to dial it in. He’s a great anchor bowler.”
Whitmarsh also sees long-term potential in Wordkemper’s dedication to learning the sport. His curiosity and attention to detail set him apart from other athletes.
“He has such a high ceiling—the sky is the limit with him,” Whitmarsh said. “He is a student of the game. He’s a ‘bowling nerd.’ He is only going to get better.”
With a strong mental game, humility, and support from his coaches, Wordkemper continues to build toward his goals. As a freshman with years still ahead of him, his future in bowling looks just as promising as his breakout season.
