The De Soto High School girls’ bowling team took first place at its meet on Jan. 22 at Crown Lanes bowling alley. The team as a whole bowled a 1,910 and beat the old team record of 1,899.

Head coach JR Kindred has coached the bowling team since his daughter Tiye’s freshman year and has felt that the girls stayed focused in the competitive setting.

“Something that was good to see at the meet on the 22nd was how well they stayed focused, “ Kindred said. “Even at the beginning of the season, they were able to throw good games and keep the focus. Tiye’ shot a 212 and [junior] Maddy Calvello shot very well also with a 170-180 game. They overall just showed very good teamwork.”

Senior girls’ bowling team co-captain Tiye’ Kindred bowled a 212 at the Jan. 22 meet. She now holds the record for the second highest DHS varsity score in school history.

“There was a lot of energy at the meet on the 22nd. I don’t even know how to explain it,” Tiye’ said. “Our team had never felt so excited about a meet like that and so it was just amazing how we were all able to push our own efforts into the game.”

Tiye’ has bowled ever since her freshman year and has found the strategy that works for her to score accurately.

“I think I have improved with learning my hook, being more accurate and having technique with my throws which makes it easier to get a strike or even make it an easier shot to throw at,” Tiye’ said. “I just think it has just really impacted how I throw my ball in general.”

Calvello performed well at the meet and continues to improve.

“My personal result was second at the meet. Since I started this season, I have improved my attitude and sportsmanship,” Calvello said. “I make it a goal for me to be supportive to other teams and their players. I also do my best to keep an upbeat attitude even if I’m not doing my best.”

JR has big goals for the team towards the end of the season and continues to push the girls to get ready for Regionals.

“Last year they got second place at Regionals, but we will have tougher competition at Emporia this year,” JR said. “These last six meets or sub meets are especially [to prepare] for that, and if we are not able to make it as a team, I hope to see the stronger players make it more individualized.”