The girls bowling team’s state tournament appearance marked a major accomplishment and highlighted how much the roster grew and developed this season, even after graduating multiple starters from last year’s team.
“Making it to state was a great accomplishment,” head coach Keith Schneider said. “Last year’s team lost 3 starters, so to make it back again was quite a feat.”
The team entered the tournament as the number 5 seed and immediately faced a tough matchup against the number 4 seed Norfolk in a best of five baker series.
“After dropping game one, we won the next two,” Schneider said. “Norfolk won game four, forcing a decisive game five. It came down to the final frame, but we ultimately fell just short by 10 pins.”
The tournament was double elimination, so the girls had another opportunity to extend their season a little longer.
“We were not done as it is a double elimination, so we faced the eight seed Papillion south in the losers bracket,” Schneider said. “The next two games were both nail biters which came down to the end.”
Both games were decided in the final frame, with only a few pins separating the teams.
“In game two, the Papillion South anchor needed to step in the final frame, and she did edge us out by four pins,” Schneider said. “In the 3rd game, we needed two strikes and a good count to win. We got the first strike, but the 2nd one didn’t fall, and we fell by four pins again.”
In singles competition, Manuela Kate represented the team among 30 qualifiers from across the state and battled through lane conditions.
“Manuela had a decent game one, shooting 151,” Schneider said. “Game two was a little rough, but she was still in it.”
After making adjustments, her performance improved significantly and put her back into contention.
“We made some adjustments and she came back with a great 183,” Schneider said. “She still jumped up in the standings and gave herself a shot at making it.”
In the final game, the decision was made to risk in order to chase a medal spot.
The team discussed whether to throw the ball or take a risk and go to a ball with a different reaction down lane. They decided to go for the gusto and make the change.
The strategy nearly worked, but a late split ended the run just short of the top eight.
“Manuela shot 179 the last game and finished 12th just 19 pins short of making the cut,” Schneider said.
Despite the loss, Schneider said he was proud of the team’s effort and growth throughout the season.
“Everyone put up their best efforts, and her bowling skills are only outshined by her attitude, and she showed great poise all year,” Schneider said.
He also highlighted the seniors’ impact and the progress made across the roster.
“Sarah Rosloniec was solid all year, Erin Fast was bowling in just her second season, and her progress through the year was amazing to watch,” Schneider said. “Mia Simon was a great spare shooter, and she broke her personal high game twice this season. The other girls were vital parts of our success this season and will be our foundation for next year.”
