Huntington senior Sofia Marchetta is one of the Blue Devils who helped restart the high school bowling program this year. Previously a recreational bowler only, the teenager thrived in the competitive atmosphere against many of the county’s strongest squads.
Ms. Marchetta was a standout in the eyes of Huntington coach Chris Taylor, who nominated the senior for the Doc Doctorow Award, the most prestigious honor presented at the annual dinner of the Suffolk Bowling Coaches Association.
The award is presented to one deserving senior bowler from each of Suffolk’s four leagues. Recipients must demonstrate the qualities inherent in good sportsmanship and does not necessarily have to be a high average bowler.
“Sofia’s personality and enthusiasm was on full display during practice, as well as our matches throughout the season,” Mr. Taylor said. “Her hard work, passion to improve and seeking all the help she could, transformed her into one of our top bowlers. I’ll never forget her excitement when she surpassed a score of 100 for the first time after two weeks of practice. Fast forward toward the middle to end of the season and she was posting highs of a 171, 189 and 198, winning some individual match-ups for our team.”
One of the Blue Devil captains, Ms. Marchetta’s leadership helped keep the team together and gain a foothold at the high school. Five current sophomores will be returning next winter.
“Sofia used a house bowling ball during early season practices and matches,” Mr. Taylor recalled. “She purchased her own custom bowling ball as her pride and confidence grew within our bowling team, as well as joining a Sunday bowling league. Sofia always bowled first at our matches, but as her confidence grew she wanted the responsibility of bowling in the second and third position and by the wild card tournament she was bowling in the fourth position, scoring a 189 against Lindenhurst.”