In a thrilling display of skill and determination, the Elizabethtown Area High School bowling team won their first-ever Pennsylvania State High School Boys Bowling Championship title at Leisure Lanes this afternoon (March 16). The team’s remarkable victory came against Middletown in a nail-biting final that saw the Bears emerge victorious 2 games to 1.

There are no video highlights but what a weekend of bowling for the Etown Bears.

In the championship match, the Bears faced a challenging start, losing the first game with a score of 190-204. However, showing true grit and resilience, the team rallied back to win the next two games, 195-170 and 198-193, securing their historic win and bringing the championship trophy to Elizabethtown for the first time.

The triumphant team members, Derek Deardorff, Mason Moore, Evan Kimble, Declan Lentz, Ella Eberle, Cole Winters, and Asher Kimble, demonstrated exceptional teamwork and individual talent throughout the tournament. Their victory was skillfully orchestrated under the guidance of their dedicated coach, Frank Telenko, whose encouragement was pivotal to the team’s success.

Upon their return to Elizabethtown, the champions were greeted with a hero’s welcome. In a heartwarming show of community support and pride, the Rheems Fire Department provided an escort through town, celebrating the team’s achievement in grand style.

The Elizabethtown Area High School and the entire community are immensely proud of the Bears’ achievement. This victory not only showcases the team’s bowling prowess but also exemplifies the spirit of perseverance, teamwork, and excellence that defines Elizabethtown Area High School.

The school extends its heartfelt congratulations to the team and coach Frank Telenko for their outstanding performance and for bringing the state championship title home.

Taylor Miller of Warwick and Gavin Courtney from Garden Spot finished second.