Blitz for six begins for girls bowling team

The girls bowling team is preparing for another year of defending a state title.

This isn’t the Hornets’ first state title defense. They are working to defend their sixth title, calling it the “blitz for six.”

Kearsley has won five straight state championships for girls bowling.

Junior Imari Blond is confident in her team and is eager to begin the season.

“I think my  team is more than ready for this season,” Blond said. “I feel very confident in our team because we not only have the talent but we know how to put our heads together mentally and emotionally.”

Coach Rob Ploof has high expectations for his team.

“I expect my girls to give 110 percent all the time, and they all know that,” Ploof said. “Based on what they did to prepare for tryouts, I expect them to continue to compete for the conference title, regional title, and state title.”

Ploof feels honored to have the opportunity to coach the girls bowling team and is thankful for the help of the Kearsley community.

“I have a hard time thinking about what Kearsley bowling has become and what this community has done to get us here,” Ploof said. “It is amazing to know that you’ve made a difference in a young person’s life and by winning state titles.”

He feels the girls’ success has also helped bring exposure to his bowlers.

“We have caught the attention of many college coaches across the country who are now interested in our girls,” Ploof said. “For me, that is the ultimate prize.”

Recently, Kearsley alumna Barb Hawes was given the opportunity to bowl at Mount St. Mary’s and senior Alexis Roof was awarded a scholarship to bowl at Valparaiso University.

“It is so rewarding to see girls like Barbara Hawes and now Alexis Roof get scholarships to go to college and to be able to make a better life for themselves through bowling,” Ploof said.

Girls Bowling at a Glance

Key Returners:

• Alexis Roof, senior
• Imari Blond, junior

Key Losses:

• Emma Boychuk
• Karlee Griffin
• Barbara Hawes

Anticipated Strengths:

• Depth
• Competitiveness

Anticipated Weaknesses:

• Youth
• Inexperience

2017-2018 Record:

• 16-0 in Metro League

Projected Top 3 League Teams:

• Kearsley
• Flushing
• Swartz Creek