(Atlantic) Atlantic High School is preparing to hit the lanes for the first season of its new boys and girls bowling program, with Montana Applegate and Michael Applegate teaming up to lead the inaugural teams.
Both coaches bowled for William Penn University and bring competitive experience and a passion for the sport to the new program.
Michael Applegate says the opportunity gives Atlantic students another way to participate in high school athletics, crediting students for helping generate the interest needed to get the program started.
Montana Applegate says the program gives students another opportunity to get involved and show their Trojan pride. The girls team currently has about seven participants, most of whom have little or no competitive bowling experience. The goal is to build participation so Atlantic can eventually field both varsity and junior varsity teams.
On the boys’ side, Michael Applegate says the athletes bring different levels of experience, making it important to establish routines, develop team chemistry, and determine what works best for the first-year program.
Both coaches emphasize individual improvement as a primary goal. They are working with athletes on bowling fundamentals.
The coaches also hope to eventually help athletes obtain their own bowling equipment. For now, most are using house balls and working to find the proper weight and finger fit.
Beyond improving scores, the coaches want to establish a positive team culture built around sportsmanship, encouragement and supporting teammates. They also recognize the mental challenges of bowling and the importance of maintaining a positive attitude when things aren’t going well.
Montana Applegate says one of the things she enjoys about bowling is being able to see personal improvement through a bowler’s average. She also appreciates that bowling is a lifelong, family-oriented sport that offers opportunities for both recreational and competitive participation.
Atlantic’s first meet is scheduled for December 3 at Harlan. Several home meets will follow, and the coaches encourage the community to come out and support the new teams.
The coaches also recognized Dan Duskin at the Super Bowl for donating all the lane time for the team’s practices and season. They also credited the Atlantic students whose involvement helped bring the new bowling program to life.
