Owatonna area bowlers take on state

            Several Owatonna-area youth bowlers make a short trip to the national Junior Gold Tournament in the Twin Cities July 11-18.

            Lillian Blaha, an incoming high school junior, qualified at the “Survivor’s Tournament” last year. She’s determined to have a good showing. “A lot of individual practicing. Spares definitely. Working on my approach,” in addition to lessons at SpareTime Entertainment.

            “I want to go on TV. So, I want to be top three. But I got to make the cut first,” said Blaha.

            Owatonna coach Brianna Cooper says, “One of the huge pulls to the USBC coming to Minnesota with Junior Gold was they were floored by how many bowling centers we have in the Metro area.” Owatonna is hosting some warm-up events.

            She and assistant coach Heather Blaha are both USBC-Minnesota Directors and will run aspects of the tournament, including an event that raises money for veterans’ homes across Minnesota.

            Talon Priebe is back at Junior Gold. Cooper says he is proud when he improves. “Trying to increase the frames that he has either struck or spared in. I’m highly motivated by high scores and quality shots,” he said.

            Priebe, entering eighth grade, follows in the footsteps of his uncle, who bowled for Owatonna High School.

            Bay Johnson states, “I was really excited and happy because this is my first year qualifying.” She wants to “make more friends and to not get last.” She would love a top-10 finish.

            Inspired by her grandpa to start bowling seven years ago, the sixth grader also competes during the team season and loves the atmosphere. “I think it’s nice when they give you a high-five or knucks after a strike or spare.”

            Ronan Floen invites others to join. “We have good coaches. We’re welcoming and we’re nice. You don’t have to have any experience because we’re so helpful.”

            She enjoys making friends and working with the coaches. In getting prepared for Junior Gold. “I practice when I can. I have ‘Kids Bowl Free.’ Practicing at home helps too. Practicing my arm swing.”

            Others affiliated with Owatonna competing are rising sophomore Sam Wilson and Carter Cortez, who’s going to be a junior.

            Cooper wants returners to rank higher than last year and newcomers to “experience how it feels to be in such a prestigious tournament… Have fun and make friends with all the bowlers that they’re going to meet.”

            The high school co-ed season runs from August through December. The girls’ league begins in January. Watch SpareTime Entertainment’s Facebook page for details.

            Even if a youth has never bowled before, joining the team “is the best place to start,” says Cooper. Equipment is provided.