Vinton-Shellsburg bowling a family affair

Ah, siblings.

Much of Vinton-Shellsburg’s bowling success can be attributed to the program’s “family atmosphere” — literally and figuratively.

The Vikings girls’ team boasts the third-highest baker game average in Class 1A, while the boys’ team ranks fifth.

On the girls’ side, senior Kylee Kirchner and sister, freshman Kadee Kirchner, hold the second and third spots in average score per game, respectively.

Senior Tori Richart leads the girls in scoring average, while her brother, freshman Tate Richart, leads the boys.

“It’s a family atmosphere here,” Vinton-Shellsburg Coach Amber Pattee said. “Yes, we have siblings on the team. There’s also a family league here at Berry’s Lanes (in Vinton) that bowls on Sundays. Siblings bowl. Parents bowl. Grandparents bowl. It’s tight-knit community where the kids start early, and I think that really helps.”

For the Vikings, sibling dynamics blend fun, competition and friendly banter.

“It’s the worst …” Tori Richart said with a dash of sarcasm when asked about having her younger brother on the varsity team. “… but really, he pushes me to do better. Every meet we have a little competition to see who can score higher. We’re always going back and forth, so it’s good.”

Tori Richart is a decorated bowler with many accolades, most notably two consecutive appearances at the state bowling tournament.

“My sister pushes me and I’ve learned a lot from her,” Tate Richart said. “It’s pretty fun. We always make fun of each other… and I’m undefeated against her this season.”

“No, you’re not,” Tori Richart quickly said.

“Yes, I am,” Tate Richart said.

“It’s a competitive fun,” Pattee said, intervening with a playful tone.

The Kirchner sisters, daughters of assistant coach Kurt Kirchner, bring a similar dynamic, albeit slightly more reserved.

Kylee Kirchner is the reigning 1A state champion and finished eighth individually in 2023.

“We (Kadee and I) battle it out at meets and practice,” Kylee Kirchner said. “If she beats me, I’m pretty quiet about it. So yes, I’d say we’re pretty competitive. Not quite to the extent of Tate and Tori, but we battle it out.”

Kadee Kirchner appreciates the lessons she’s learned from her older sister.

“She’s taught me that even if you’re not bowling the greatest, still be happy and don’t let it get in your head,” Kadee Kirchner said. “Just smile.”

“It’s really great watching her grow as a freshman and just having her next to me,” Kylee Kirchner said. “We want the best for each other in the sport and in life.”

With just three meets before the Wamac Conference bowling tournament on Feb. 14, the Vikings are focused on a strong finish to the season.

“They like to have fun — they like to laugh, but they do get serious,” Pattee said. “They do get upset with each other, with teammates, with themselves … all in all, it’s a team and we’re together until the end.”

The Vikings finished third as a team at last year’s state tournament, and with the talent, experience and connection on this year’s roster — family ties and all — they’re poised for another strong postseason run.

“Bowling is one of those games where every day you have to give it your all,” Pattee said. “And hopefully, we can compete at state. And if we get that opportunity, we give it our best.”