Maine-Endwell girls bowling wins program’s first state championship

ENDWELL, N.Y. (WBNG) — Heading into the sixth and final game, Maine-Endwell trailed first place by 28 pins.

The Spartans locked in to hit 1,033 pins, the most that any team bowled on the day, while claiming the program’s first championship by a 132-pin margin.

“We all put all of our hard work and energy into that last game,” said Maine-Endwell senior Jenna Kurtz.

Maine-Endwell’s team of six was led by five seniors.

While the Spartans have failed to achieve the goal of being state champions in the past, a specific focus in practice helped put the Spartans on top.

“We do a lot of spare practicing, and that’s what won us the title,” Maine Endwell senior Natalie Yale said.

When the game was sealed, Maine-Endwell head coach Eric Williams became emotional and proud of his team.

“Especially with four seniors leaving, it’s very tough,” Williams said. “Very exciting to the point where it takes away your breath sometimes.”

The Spartans’ biggest surprise of the day came off the lanes. They found out that a parade had been set up for their arrival at Maine-Endwell, with police, fire trucks and more leading the way.

“It’s just very surprising how many people came out,” said Maine-Endwell senior Reonna Smithgall. “Feels great to have everybody there for us.”

Williams said the Spartans may compete in the High School Bowling National Championship in June, which will take place in Indiana.

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