For the first time in the history of Washburn Rural High School, the Boys Bowling team can say they’re State Champions. The Jr. Blues were led by four seniors this season; Josh Hammons, Walker Thompson, Geo Peoples, and Reece Godby.

Hammons and Thompson placed individually as well, with Hammons finishing 7th with a 696 series and Thompson finishing 11th with a 671 series. The two other competitors on the team were sophomores Logan Glinka and Tyler Faurot.

The fellas posted a 980 Baker score and though it hasn’t been confirmed, is believed to be a state record. In the second Baker game, the Jr. blues caught fire and bowled NINE straight strikes to start the game. The streak ended in the tenth frame and the Blues finished with a 267 game. The boys finished with a final score 3,711 which breaks the Class 6A State tournament record.

As great as the players were, it all starts with the coaches. Steve Peoples and Jo Ricard have worked very hard to motivate and make sure the team’s technique stayed as sound as it could. As much as the win meant to the players, it meant so much more to coach Ricard. She told a reporter in an interview, once she realized they were going to take state she, “didn’t even want to turn around and face the guys because I didn’t want them to see water in my eyes… It’s just really special.