In the last two years, Central’s boys bowling team has managed to only lose two matches. So far this season, they’ve managed to earn a 12-2 match record, only losing to Lockport and Oswego East. In invitational competitions, some with 20 or more teams, the team hasn’t placed below 7th. The team is currently two thirds of the way through their season, and now looks to remain successful with their IHSA state series starting soon.

The team, which finished seventh at state during the 2022-2023 season, has a mix of veteran and new members. After three athletes from last year’s team graduated, juniors Aidan Lee, Tommy Kradenpoth, and Nate Taverna lead the team. The team also includes members who are far newer to the sport compared to the veterans. Despite this, head coach Brian Dunn believes they have potential. 

“[This year] is a different look [than last year], but it’s one that has a higher ceiling,” Dunn said.

With the team deep into their season, Dunn wants to focus on bridging the gap between new and veteran bowlers. 

“It’s a bunch of other bowlers now that are kind of getting started, but they’re developing quickly,” Dunn said.

Having a younger, less experienced roster naturally comes with a slight learning curve for the team. 

“We’ve got to find one more level to our game, that comes in spare shooting,” Dunn said. “If we find it, I think we’ll stack up with anybody at our sectional.”

Despite challenges in spare shooting, the team hasn’t faced struggles in their strikes.

“We’re striking at percentages that are higher than last year, which is insane,” Dunn said. “These levels I’m seeing are as good as any top-10 team that’s out there in the state.”The team will begin the IHSA state series when they host their regional on Jan. 13 at Lisle Lanes. This year brings redrawn sectional lines for Central’s team.

“We’re in a tougher group now, but I think we can match up with most of those schools.”