(Cole Leis’ 21 prepares to deliver a strike. (Courtesy/Cynthia Wilson)

The Vikings followed up their extraordinary run with another solid week. They were tested by tough competition yet rose to the task. First up was a match against Beechcroft on January 25 at the Sequoia Pro Bowl. The Striking Vikings took the win, 1854 to 1524, despite an astounding performance from Beechcroft’s freshman Devin Strouse-the young standout put up 205 and 201, but that wasn’t enough to take down our boys. The Vikes were unsurprisingly led by senior Vincent White, who bowled 142 and 213. Following closely behind was senior Cole Leis, who had 207 and 140. Next was Jacob Mowery’23 with 149 and 188, and then Jake Podgurski ‘21 with 150 and 159. Gabe Taub ‘21 also added 123 in the first, with Skyler Simpson ‘21 delivering 116 in the second.

After that win, the Vikes fell to Northland, 1933 to 1832 at HP Lanes on January 28. There was no shame in this loss, as another young bowler showed out against the team. This time it was Ray Craig, a Northland sophomore who bowled a 200 and 251 and who didn’t back down from the challenge, as Mowery led the way for Academy with 216 and 154. White was second with 164 and 205, followed by Leis’ 176 and 132. Taub had a nice 153 and 114. Podgurski had 148 in the second, while Ryan Reagan ‘22 had 87 in the first.

The team has a bit of a break, as they won’t bowl again until sectionals on February 13 at HP Lanes. This squad will surely make some noise when that day comes.