Bowling team captains improve averages
WEST MILFORD. Coach sees mental growth in team leaders too.
| 22 Jan 2023 | 12:14
Front row from left are Cassidy Kunz, Colleen Janetzko, Serena Kunz and Maxine Kunz and back row from left are Michael McCloskey, Michael Snyder, Vinny Janetzko and Matt Strianse, all members of the West Milford bowling team. (Photo by Lors Photography)
One thing’s for sure, the West Milford High School boys and girls bowling teams are not lacking in the leadership department this season.
From second-year head coach Alex Caillie to the captains on the roster, the Highlanders have leaders who know how to handle their responsibilities in a proper manner.
The captains for the 2022-23 season are seniors Colleen Janetzko, Cassidy Kunz, Michael Snyder and Matt Strians.
“I chose these students as captains for a few reasons,’’ Caillie said. “They are seniors and have been on the team for years, so they have experience in things like match etiquette and tournament proceedings. They also communicate well with myself and their teammates.
“Finally, I did actually poll the entire team for their view on who the captains should be once I had a few students in mind. I felt this gave the team a voice for who would represent West Milford as captains. It just so happened, luckily, their choices aligned with mine.’’
Midway through January, the captains have accumulated impressive statistics on the lanes.
“Michael Snyder has achieved a few 200 games this season (201, 207, 200) as well as a collection of 190 games and maintained a 161 average,’’ Caillie said.
“Matt Strianse has improved his average by eight pins since last year and continues to improve each game he plays. He has had a handful of 175 games already this year.
“Colleen Janetzko has a high score this season of 198 and her average has also improved through the season, four pins up from last year.
“Cassidy is an extremely consistent bowler, rarely deviating from her 139 average, up eight pins from last year.’’
The coach has noticed improvements made by captains on a consistent basis this season.
“As stated, each student has improved their averages, but they have grown mentally as well,’’ she said. “Bowling is a very internal sport, and while you bowl on a team, only you can control what you do physically and mentally. These four have shown that they know how to push away outside influence to stay focused on the game, and their best play.’’
They are always there to encourage their teammates as well, she noted.
“These four do a great job of keeping spirits high and supporting each other mentally, whether they are cheering on a strike or spare, giving advice on a throw, or giving words of encouragement if anyone misses a spare.”
Through Jan. 20, the girls team had six victories and the boys team had two wins.
On Jan. 23, the Highlanders are scheduled to host Wayne Hills in a Big North Conference Independence Division contest at Holiday Bowl in Oakland.