With a new state, a new team and new records to set, senior Robyn Konrad has proven herself to be a great addition to the Rolling Meadows bowling team. After moving from Wisconsin to Rolling Meadows, Konrad was faced with becoming accustomed to vigorous practices again after taking a personal break over the summer. Konrad later advanced to MSL All-Conference where she placed sixth and is hoping to qualify for State.

Since the age of five, Konrad has been bowling consistently, regardless of whether she is on a school team or bowling individually. Moving to Rolling Meadows hasn’t been easy, but Konrad continues to stay confident.  

“At first it was difficult because I didn’t know anyone on the team,” Konrad said. “Once the team got to know me, they pulled me in and treated me like I was there from the start. I really enjoyed getting to know them all over the season.”

According to Konrad, taking a short break put her in a difficult position when starting the new season. However, she was able to focus on one aspect of her game.

“Once I got back in the swing of things I really worked on spare shooting,” Konrad said. “Spares are what can make or break a good bowler. I really focused on the 10 pin the most.”

Even when focusing on your individual game, it is important for a team to consistently support one another. Despite being a new member on the team, Konrad felt a continuous amount of comfort from her team.

“They were very influential,” Konrad said. “They kept me pumped throughout matches when we were bowling [well]. At the same time though, when I was having a rough time they pushed me to stay positive.”

Konrad’s addition to the team this year meant more than just winning. As the only senior, she was able to help her teammates form positive mindsets when they began to doubt themselves.  

“She was always cheering everyone on throughout the season and was very supportive,” sophomore Jenna Sassan said. “She also was a very positive person throughout the season no matter what, which I think really helped improve my mood at times and motivated me to be a good teammate.”

Konrad was a key player this season and will continue her journey with bowling through college. As for now, Head Coach Karen Ellingsworth is looking forward to next season with the returning girls.

“The returning girls have a lot of potential. But in order to keep improving they need to continue practicing and refining their bowling technique during the off-season. No athlete can reach their true potential only playing a few months of the year,” Ellingsworth said.