Down the Lane - By Nate Ruelas
Sierra Ruelas, a dedicated senior bowler, has been perfecting her skills on the team for an impressive four years. She never looked back after her friend Malia Haynes, a former bowler, persuaded her to try bowling, and she quickly picked it up and never looked back. She enthusiastically shares how amazing the Richland bowling scene is, highlighting the team's growth, as it grows by a large amount each year and the individual improvement drastically changes.
Throughout the summer, she bowls in leagues and trains with coaches almost daily. Ruelas commits herself to bowling throughout the season, including winter months until January's end, practicing extra hours, and during team sessions. Her favorite bowling alley is none other than Atomic, our home alley. Ruelas loves the meticulous care of the lanes and the perfect oil pattern, which sets Atomic apart from the rest. When they compete there, the team can confidently expect great results without constantly adjusting their throwing marks. When bowling away, the team normally faces numerous challenges, including throwing around the same mark, meaning the lanes dry out very fast, causing their throwing balls to get off track easily. This is a challenge for the team as they all have to adjust constantly for where their ball breaks to curve. Though the game might seem easy to watch, it requires a lot of thought and technique. Ruelas would say, “It's a game of thinking and constantly has you on your toes.” Through the challenges, the team always holds its ground by working together and supporting each other to get where the team needs to be.
Bowling has taught Ruelas many valuable life lessons. She states, “It has instilled in me a sense of independence while also emphasizing the importance of teamwork,” said Ruelas. She firmly believes that success is within reach as long as each team member does their part and gives their best effort. Ruelas focuses on her score, ensuring she holds her ground while supporting her teammates. The balance between individual performance and the team’s overall score makes bowling such a thrilling experience for her.
But it’s not just the game that captivates Ruelas; it’s also the camaraderie she builds and shares with her teammates. She shares that practice sessions are always a blast, thanks to the relaxed and chill environment. Regarding matches, the competition brings extra excitement and intensity as the team is very competitive.
Ruelas’s dedication and hard work are evident in her average score of around 160, consistently throwing games in the range of 150-170. Ruelas has spent all her years on the bowling team working hard to get her average where she wants it. She shares, “It is at a good point during this time, but I’m always shooting for higher,” said Ruelas. Her commitment to improving her skills and supporting her team shines through in every frame.
Sierra’s passion, dedication to bowling, and commitment to her team are truly inspiring. Her journey showcases the power of perseverance, teamwork, and the joy of pursuing a sport she loves!
