Edmond Memorial High School’s bowling team is entering its second year and is looking to build on the foundation established last year, with a few returning players to anchor the team.
The bowling team was founded in 2024 as a new opportunity for students to join an athletic team. The team is open for anyone to join. Steve Soares Jr. was the coach for the team’s inaugural year and is returning this year.
“There is no minimum equipment that the student needs to join with the exception of jeans, dress pants or shorts for competition events,” Soares said. “While bowling may look like an individual sport when it’s your turn on the approach, every frame is backed by teamwork.”
Each frame, teammates will cheer on the person who is currently competing. Sophomore Ben Bajema joined the team this year, along with his brother Will Bajema.
“We hype each other up big time–high-fives after good shots, yelling ‘you got this’ when someone’s up,” Ben said. “It feels cool to wear the school shirt and bowl for the team, showing that Memorial isn’t just good at football and track and other things.”
Bowling has many major accomplishments that teams strive for, such as achieving a perfect game with 12 strikes in a row. That can only be accomplished through hard work and consistent practice.
“I like bowling and thought it would be fun to try something new with friends at school,” Will said. “[Bowling] taught me to focus on each shot, be patient and work together as a team.”
The season is just getting started, with the regional championship being held on Feb. 21 at Bowlero Edmond and the state championship on Feb. 28, with the location to be determined. After these events, the All-Star selection and competition will be held in early to mid-March.
As the Bulldog bowling team moves further into its second season, the focus remains on building a solid foundation and expanding the current EMHS trophy case. Whether one is a part of the Bulldog community or not, the team invites everyone to come out and cheer on the growth of one of Memorial’s newest athletic teams.
Contact Wes Matlock at [email protected]
