The Mount Vernon High School bowling team has a mix of returning players and new additions this season, led by senior captains Jace Kyle, Alan Townsend and Zach Johnson who have goal to win the conference title and make it to the district tournament.
Coach Nathan Cooper as at the helm this season after several years as a volunteer and then an assistant. He will be assisted by Chris Japiske, and they are excited for an an excellent season ahead of them.
“Compared to last year, this season's squad demonstrates a promising mix of experience and fresh energy,” said Cooper. “The addition of new faces has injected excitement into the team, while the returning players provide valuable leadership and continuity. The entire team is dedicated to improving their skills and working together to achieve their goals. Overall, there is a sense of optimism and determination within the team. With the combination of new talent and experienced players, the squad is poised for a successful season.”
There are 11 newcomers to the team this year, including five boys and six girls. For the girls’ team, Kyle and fellow senior Ashlyn Celeschi lead the squad. There are also two returning letter winners in junior Laura Page and sophomore Addyson Dusenberry.
Along with Townsend and Johnson, the boys are led by senior Nick Pearce, juniors Luke Moore and Case Armstrong, and sophomores Griffin Beach and J’Haxom Byron.
“The team is thrilled about the youth and talent that these new and returning players bring to the table,” Cooper said.
Cooper said that one of the strengths of the team is the “overwhelmingly positive attitudes” that the new teammates have brought to the table.
“This positive energy is contagious and creates a supportive and motivating environment,” Cooper said. “Additionally, we are fortunate to have strong leaders in our team captains who have embraced their roles and are guiding the team effectively. On the other hand, one of our weaknesses lies in the skill level of some of our newer bowlers. As they are still developing their bowling skills, there may be some challenges in terms of consistency and performance.”
Cooper said that the important part is that improvement is being shown every day. Dedication practice and support from the experienced players will help fix those weaknesses, he added.
“Overall, the positive attitudes and strong leadership within the team are major assets that will drive us forward,” Cooper said. “While we acknowledge the current skill level of some of our newer members as a weakness, we are actively working together to overcome this challenge and improve as a cohesive unit.”
Players to watch out for this year include Alan Townsend, who had an outstanding season last year and was the only bowler outside of Ashland to make it in the top eight in averages.
“We are eagerly awaiting to see his progress this year,” Cooper said.
Kale Oswalt is a bowler to keep an eye on as well. The freshman has shown potential and is expected to compete at a high level for the boys’ team.
The girls’ team brings back their leading average player in Kyle, and Page is also a player to watch this year as she made major strides since last season.
“With a team that includes several talented freshmen, it will be thrilling to see their progress and development throughout the year,” Cooper said. “Overall, there's a lot of excitement and anticipation for the upcoming season.”
Kyle and Townsend both have a chance to break the school season record for high averages. Cooper said achieving a season record would be a huge accomplishment and a testament to how much time and work they have put in. He is pushing for fans and supporters to cheer them on as they work toward making the record books.
“This is an exciting prospect and something for both players and fans to keep an eye on throughout the season,” Cooper said.
Looking at the schedule, Cooper said there are exciting matchups this year including the young and talented Ashland squad. Wooster is a strong contender, as well, and there are several tournaments they have lined up that will be major tests. The first is the Cougar Classic in January, hosted by Mount Vernon Nazarene University at Colonial City Lanes.
“With these matchups and tournaments, our teams will have plenty of opportunities to demonstrate their abilities, face tough competition, and continue to grow throughout the season,” Cooper said. “Let's show our support and cheer them on to victory.”
This week the Yellow Jackets face West Holmes on Dec. 4, Wooster on Dec. 6 and Fredericktown on Dec. 7 with matches starting at 4 p.m.
