- April 25, 2024
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Matanzas upped the ante by bringing their cheerleaders to root on their teams. Photos by Jeff Dawsey
The section that Palm Coast Lanes has designated for the Flagler Palm Coast and Matanzas match has become an overcrowded, blue and green, loud showground
Curtis Payne led all bowlers with a 649 pin total.
Josh Massey fist pumps after one of his many strikes, through three games.
Taylor Fletcher rolls a strike during FPC's game No. 2 win.
1.Flagler bowling is an event
If you’ve attended the crosstown bowling match within the last two years, then you know it has become a scene unlike anything in the high school bowling world.
The section that Palm Coast Lanes has designated for the Flagler Palm Coast and Matanzas match has become an overcrowded, blue and green, loud showground. Every strike, spare or close miss is passionately applauded.
This year, Matanzas went above and beyond, bringing their cheerleaders to the alley.
2.Josh Massey is pretty good
The Pirates’ Josh Massey has now bowled four straight 600 series – or better – in a row, which is a Matanzas record. His highest series came against Eagleview on Wednesday, when Massey bowled a 683.
3.Where did the Lady Pirates come from?
Two years ago, I wrote an article about Kiersten Miller who was the Lady Pirate’s sole girl bowler. She went into every match knowing she would lose against teams that played at least three girls.
At the beginning of this season, 14 girls tried out for the team, with eight making the girls’ team. According to head coach Tom DeCeglie, most of his players come from his classes.
“Everyone except one, so there’s a lot of inconsistency,’ DeCeglie said. “But, once we get more experience, we can start building the program like the boys’ have now.”
4.A friendly rivalry
Unlike the football game, this crosstown rivalry isn’t so hostile. The players actually encourage and cheer for one another after each roll. Even the parents and administrators get in on the crosstown support for all bowlers.
5.Game notes
The Pirates (4-0) swept the Bulldogs (2-2) with wins in three straight games, totaling 2,262-1,950. Curtis Payne led all bowlers with 649 total pins, and Josh Massey followed with 624. Alex Detoma led FPC with 606 total pins.
In girls action, the Lady Bulldogs (4-0) swept the Pirates (1-2) with 1,770 to 1,324. Gabriela Hernandes led all girl bowlers with 560 total pins, including two 200 games.
