Finally recognized as a varsity team this year, Mercy’s Varsity Bowling team had their first tournament at Drakeshire Lanes in Farmington on Dec. 7  after weeks of practice. Although they did not place, junior Ashlei Brooks got second place in the individual series.

Until their next tournament in January, MVB plans to continue to practice in order to improve and hone their skills. The team, which is made up of eight girls, meets almost every day most weeks, and practices are about an hour and a half to two hours long.

At these practices, each bowler tries bowling on multiple lanes, each with a different oil pattern. Also during practice, different techniques are rehearsed for each kind of spare, and they go through a variety of other drills as well.

“You’ve got to be really dedicated,” said senior Hayley Caddell.

The commitment and perseverance that these girls put into their sport and passion promises an eventful season.