Vernon bowling team striving for improvement

VERNON — As a sports fan, it’s generally disappointing to see a team’s numbers, enthusiasm and success dwindle on a year by year basis. At the same time, however, it’s inspirational to witness a program that is trying to build itself up and become more competitive in a noticeable way.
The Vernon High School bowling program is working hard to improve on an individual and indeed team-wide level.
The Vikings have a strong amount of bowlers doing their best on the lanes this winter including Drea Baumann (senior), Josh Caltabilotta (senior), Scott Holster (senior), Sean Till (senior), Brandon Bambrick (junior), Zak Elkhamiri (junior), Bryce Journey (sophomore), Madison Kerns (sophomore), Destiny Kerton (sophomore), Destiny Wynne (sophomore) and Jess Carfella (freshman).
“Josh Caltabilotta was chosen as the captain of the team because of his dedication and loyalty to the team," Vernon head coach Sherry Quinn said. “He is also a very good role model for the younger bowlers. Josh always demonstrates a positive attitude and displays good sportsmanship at all times."
Coach Quinn noted that the Vikings have several new faces on the roster this season, some of whom are already making their presence felt on against varsity opposition.
“We have quite a few new members to the sport of bowling this year so we are a work in progress,’’ Quinn said. “One of our newcomers, Bryce Journey has been an asset to our team, having bowled several games over 200. Scott Holster, one of our returning seniors has also come along way, tonight (Jan. 3) he bowled a high game of 225. For the first time in several years we have challenged some of our competition.
“Holster has upped his game and has seen quite a bit of improvement. Journey has definitely brought some talent to our team and returning junior Brandon Bambrick has shown quite a bit of confidence and improvement since last year, he is also very determined."
On Jan. 17, Vernon has a match scheduled versus Newton at Sparta Lanes.
“As a whole we have a very positive team," Quinn said. “They root for each other, they help each other smile and some of the more experienced bowlers help the newer bowlers in their technique.
“Vernon's bowling team has been struggling for the last couple of years. This year, although we have not reached our full potential yet, I see hope for the future of Vernon bowling."