The Oak Creek High School Bowling Team hosted its annual 9-pin Tap Tournament to raise money for the team’s upcoming season. On Saturday, March 2, at Classic Lanes in Oak Creek, WI, the event took place. Over 200 bowlers signed up to participate and support the Oak Creek High School Bowling team as they begin their season. The money being raised at this event goes directly to the team to help fund equipment and trips to tournaments. Over the past decade, Oak Creek Bowling has been successful, becoming District champions in back-to-back seasons and reaching the state competition for 11 consecutive years. They have also traveled to various parts of the country to compete nationally. “We are proud of our kids and what they have accomplished. That is why we continue to throw events like this” said Michelle Ervin, co-coordinator of the tournament.  

The success of the program is what has allowed this event to consistently happen every year. This is due to the brilliant coaching style of Jeff Wrobleski. Wrobleski has been the head coach of the bowling team for decades. He was first involved in the program when his kids were in the program. His kids are now 40 years old. “I do it because I love to see the progress that these kids make not just in bowling, but also in their lives. Seeing them as toddlers bowling on Saturdays to seeing them grow up and be on my team is something special.”  says Wrobleski when asked about his time with the program. He is proud of his work in the program and how the program has developed to something bigger than when it started. 

The tournament is also supported by a local group known as the “Mothers of Bowling” (M.O.B). The group consists of the moms who support their kids in the program. The head of the group, Holly Sutherland, says “We created this group to support our kids and make sure they get what they can get from the school. The school does not allow much funding for the team, so we support through fundraisers like this.” The M.O.B meets once a month to go over the financials of the team and look for ways to continue to fund the team. 

To conclude, support your local community any way you can. Communities are always looking for support in several ways and you could contribute to their cause. Make the world a better place.