Vernon bowlers showed improvement this season

VERNON — One term, and it’s an important one at that that can be used to describe the 2017-18 Vernon High School bowling program is improvement. Student-athletes on the Vikings’ roster improve themselves as individual bowlers in a variety of ways, helped their teammates to become more well-rounded on the lanes and their enthusiasm for the sport improved as well.
This, of course, is something that any coach would take pride in and thus is the case for Vernon head bowling coach Sherry Quinn. Coach Quinn witnessed firsthand as bowlers on the team grew not only athletes, but also grew closer together as teammates.
There certainly wasn’t a lack of leadership for the Vikings and that was another positive that can be taken away from this recently concluded season.
“Actually all of our seniors were leaders," Quinn said. “Co-captains Michael Stefkovich and Brandon Bambric, as well Kevin Parise were role models, demonstrating sportsmanship and determination to improve their bowling skills. Seniors Zak Elkhamiri, Matt Trantel, Gio DiMartino and Evan Ellsworth were also leaders giving support to everyone on the team, adding some levity to the matches and demonstrating positive values for the whole team.
“Once again the whole team improved throughout the season. Seniors Michael Stefkovich, Kevin Parise, Matt Trantel and Evan Ellsworth were probably the most improved."
The Vikings earned three victories this winter, all of were memorable to members of the team.
“The contests that stand out are the three that we won," Quinn said. “Our second match against Lenape Valley (a 7-0 win on Jan. 11) and our two matches against Newton (5-2 victories on Jan. 18 and Jan. 25, respectively)."
There is a sense of optimism surrounding the future of the Vernon program, as is highlighted by bowlers who are currently underclassmen.
“Freshmen Zack Mabee and Nick Delia I know will be working hard to hone their bowling skills for next year, as well as sophomore Jess Carfello,’’ Quinn said.
The upcoming years appear to be in good hands for the Vikings, but the energetic and uplifting ways that the 2017-2018 team carried itself will be remembered for a long time too.
“This was truly a wonderful team that I had the privilege to coach," Quinn said. “I loved their enthusiasm, humor and the way they supported each other."