Strike after strike, the HEHS girls bowling team continues to prove their dedication and determination to dominate the lanes through teamwork and support. From long trainings to sectional qualifiers, these athletes are competetively representing Hawk Pride. But what makes their success even more remarkable is their inclusivity and bond.
“You can make a ton of new friends and even if you’re not that great at bowling, there’s always room to improve,” said Harmony Dalenberg, a junior on the Varsity team.
For many bowlers, the mental obstacle of the sport can be the toughest challenge. As Dalenberg puts it, “Well, the sport is really challenging mentally, your scores can vary, it’s hard to be super consistent, but I’ve overcome them by just keeping my head in the game and being as consistent as I can.”
Just like any sport, staying focused and resilient is key to pushing through those tough moments. Their ability to stay composed under pressure has been crucial to their success on the lanes.
The team owes much of its success to the hard work and dedication of their coaches, Suzanne Fetherling and Dan Pflieger. Pflieger has been coaching for 22 years and is the longest-standing coach in the MSL league across Districts 211 and 214. His experience and knowledge have been indispensable to the team.
“I’d say the best part is getting to know girls I don’t normally teach,” he said. With his guidance during the 2017 season, he led the Hoffman team to victory, placing second in state and leaving with two girls graduating with bowling scholarships.
Fetherling has been coaching for eight years, bringing a fresh approach and strong support to the athletes. Together, they help the team grow, pushing them to do their best both mentally and physically.
“We’re the most successful athletic program in Hoffman Estates High School,” said Fetherling, who serves as an assistant coach.
Both coaches are passionate about making the sport inclusive, encouraging everyone to join the team and experience the excitement and challenge of bowling. Fetherling explains that, “…a lot of girls come in with no bowling experience and are like ‘I just bowl with my friends’. Then we end up graduating girls with scholarships.”
When asked about obstacles, Fetherling said “to be honest we don’t have a lot of obstacles. Our girls get better and we don’t have drama.”
Thanks to the strong guidance from coaches and the determination from the team, the team has contributed two second place and first place state trophies to the Hoffman trophy case. And this year, the team is sending off Harmony Dalenberg and Peyton Liles to sectionals with the support of their team at their back.
