Per Bowling Vision, over 5000 years ago in 3200 BC, there was an ancient tomb belonging to a child with a set of balls and pins, being the first discovery of the sport we know as bowling. Bowling has been a part of the Taft community for countless years, but we tend to miss the amazing bowling team that we have here.

Varsity recently had a conference match on Dec. 2 vs Chicago Phoenix Military Academy, and now they’re heading for another one on the 9th. They had a  Cross Town Classic Invitational on the 14th. Tournaments are usually at Stardust Bowl and Fireway Bowl.

Bowling seems to keep spirits high. “It’s really fun. Playing with the team, it’s very enjoyable,” said Steven Pena, a sophomore on the Junior Varsity team.

Practices and days of training come at random. “Some practices happen on the same day, some don’t. We go to Habetler for practice,” continued Pena.

 When asked whether or not he thinks the bowling team deserves more recognition, Pena was quick to answer. “Bowling is more than just throwing a ball – it’s pretty simple to throw a ball and get points, but what really matters is the consistency from the bowler, to keep everything the same way. If you can stay consistent, I think that deserves a lot of respect.”

“I always think it deserves a lot more recognition. We have finished in top spots for the last several years and people still don’t even know we have a team,” said Ramon Pagan, the coach for the bowling team.

“Some“ people most likely don’t realize the consistency that you need while bowling. You need to be able to maintain the trajectory of your ball within the pins,” said Jesse Seymore, a junior on the Junior Varsity team. Precision is key for bowling.

The sport keeps people connected.  “People seem to forget the social aspect that bowling has. It’s a small community and once you’re in that circle, you will see the same people a couple of years from now and it’ll be through bowling,” continued Pagan.

“I like the people I’ve met on the team. Coaches and teammates, they’re all very fun to be around with,” continued Seymore.

The bowling team was brought together because the members all have a love for bowling and they have a passion for the sport. They don’t just think that it is about winning or losing, simply having fun! They know how to play the sport accurately with skills. They want to show others that bowling means business, but it’s an enjoyable sport!