River View girls win Black Bear Invite, showcase local bowling talent

River View captured the championship at the River View Black Bear Invite girls bowling tournament held Jan. 3 at Legacy Lanes, defeating Ridgewood in the finals after advancing as the tournament's top seed. The host team qualified as the No. 1 seed with a combined total of 3,496 for three games plus six Baker games and moved through match play with tight semifinal wins over West Holmes before a convincing title match.

In the semifinals River View edged West Holmes 163-160 in the first match and won the second 216-106. In the finals River View beat Ridgewood 183-101 and 194-146 to secure the title. The team effort included strong individual series that propelled the hosts through the bracket and underscored the depth of local high school bowling talent.

Several River View bowlers earned all-tournament recognition. Junior Karley Stocker posted a 552 series to finish second overall and was named first-team all-tournament. Sophomore Morgan Rowe rolled a 523 series to place fifth and also made first-team all-tournament. Junior Kaylie Bryan recorded a 488 series, finished ninth, and was named to the second team. The championship roster included multiple contributors and highlighted several personal records, reflecting both veteran leadership and emerging skill among younger players.

For Holmes County, the tournament matters beyond trophies. Legacy Lanes served as a community hub for the event, drawing families and classmates and providing a public space where young women can compete, build confidence, and form social ties. High school sports like bowling offer regular physical activity and structure that support students' mental and physical health; they also spotlight the importance of investing in school athletics and community facilities so all students have access to extracurricular opportunities.

Equity remains a local concern. Ensuring girls' teams receive fair funding, travel support, coaching and facility access helps level the playing field for students from all backgrounds. Tournaments hosted at neighborhood venues keep costs lower for families and invite broader community attendance, which can translate into volunteer support and fundraising that sustain programs.

The takeaway? Celebrate the wins, but also back them with action: come out to Legacy Lanes for the next home match, chip in at fundraisers, and coach or volunteer when you can. Supporting local girls sports keeps Holmes County lanes full and gives more young people a place to strike, spare and grow.