While bowling is a popular pastime, being on a team is a different experience. Senior Brian Rubio said he didn’t really know anything about bowling before joining the school team about a year ago, but the people around him helped him learn. He said he joined in order to branch out, make new friends and find something new.

“It seemed like a fun sport; there were some perks I got at the bowling alley, and I was just trying to make new friends in general,” Rubio said. 

What started as a fun way to enjoy perks at the bowling alley and meet new people turned into something much more meaningful.  Rubio made friends and even inspired his brother to start the sport. Being part of the team helped him feel more connected in general. While bowling helped him connect with many people, the biggest connection may have been his own brother.  

“He wanted to bowl after me, and he wanted to try it, too,” Rubio said.

Rubio said he and his brother could very well have a future in bowling together and hoped if they tried hard and worked hard enough and improved, they would make it to the big leagues.   

“If a school gives an offer, I would for sure go,” Rubio said. “My brother would be the same. At the same time, I know not many schools do that.” 

Rubio was open about what was necessary to improve bowling skills, not just for him but for his teammates.

“We go to lots of different bowling alleys, and every place is different, so you have to adjust,” Rubio said.

Rubio  had another goal he wanted to accomplish in bowling.

“My biggest goal is to get over 260 points in a game,” Rubio said. “My most in a single game is 240 points.”

Bowling became an important part of Rubio’s life, strengthening friendships and family bonds while encouraging him to step outside his comfort zone, and he learned a life lesson. 

“From bowling, I have learned communication and teamwork are key,” Rubio said.