Prairie boys knock down the competition, move on to state

By Jeff Hare, Correspondent

It's tournament time, and we all know what that means. Perform at your best, or go home. One team not yet ready for home cooking yet is the Cedar Rapids Prairie boys bowling team. That's because the Hawks won the State Qualifying tournament Thursday at Lancer Lanes by shooting a commanding 3252, outpacing second place Muscatine at 3099.

Prairie Coach Don Willfong was understandably happy with his team's effort.

“I thought the boys were fantastic today. Everything came together when it needed to, and they threw the best they could. I can't tell you how pleased I was with the way it went today.”

Senior Brogan Fiala led the way for the Hawks with a 481 series (2 games). Sophomore Josh Kacena fired a 445. In addition, the Baker Round had Prairie coming in with a lofty 2118.

“The Baker Round was amazing. We hit strikes on the first six, and the whole house got quiet. I've never seen it in a high school meet, where the entire building gets silent. The spectators knew something special was happening. I was just proud to be there, and associated with these kids,” said Willfong.

In girls play, Xavier took home the crown in 1A and will also advance to the State Tournament next week. The Saints shot a 2635, to hold off Camanche's 2570. Xavier was led by defending individual champion Tara Trcka, who overcame a 147 in her first game, to throw a 279 in the second, ending up with a 427 average.

Also Katie Palmer of Prairie will advance to the individual competition next week.

The State Tournament will be held at the Plaza Lanes in Des Moines, with 1A competing on Thursday, with 2A on Friday. Willfong knows exactly what to expect going in.

“Even with Plaza Lanes as big as it is, the place will be packed, with people shoulder to shoulder. They will be standing literally in the aisle ways, all excited to watch some great bowling.”

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