It’s always fun to make history.
And that’s exactly what the St. Hubert High School bowling team did this year. And in the process, the Bambies let the entire state know they mean business.
The team was led by freshman Lauren Kessler, who was the Most Valuable Player in the Catholic League. And behind her and some great teammates, the Bambies qualified for the 12-team Pennsylvania State High School Bowling Championships in Pittsburgh.
But the Bambies couldn’t have done it without great leadership that was provided by seniors.
Overall, this was as great a year as a team could have.
“Getting St. Hubert’s to bowl in states was a really big deal,” said Rachel Kessler, who is Laura’s sister. “It means that our team worked super hard throughout the season, and reaching states is a huge achievement. It shows that we were one of the top teams in our area, which can be really exciting for everyone involved — players, coaches and fans.
“The most memorable thing was going on the trip with our teammates and being able to spend time together.”
For the Kesslers, this was the perfect way to start their bowling careers.
To lead the Bambies to something the school had never done before really raises the bar for what Hubert can do going forward. But for the seniors, saying goodbye to the sport while representing the Bambies, the season really couldn’t have had a happier ending.
“At first, I didn’t believe we made it this far,” said senior captain Kylie Cooley. “I always thought my team had the potential but living it out made it so much more memorable. Although we didn’t get the outcome we wanted it meant so much to me for St. Hubert’s to even make it this far and that alone means a lot to me.
“My favorite part about the trip was being able to get closer to my teammates. After the game we went out to a team dinner and had the best time joking around and listening to our coach Mr. Nice’s stories. It was also so much fun being with the girls and talking with them I learned so much in such a short time.”
The season surprised a lot of people. Even their coach Patrick Hamill didn’t know what to expect from the team heading into the year. What he saw only raises expectations going forward.
“We were good last season, but we had some big holes to fill with some very good bowlers leaving,” Hamill said. “Then we get great freshman bowlers. We had a very good team. We made the Catholic League finals and to make it to Pittsburgh was big for us.”
The Bambies not only did themselves proud, they did the entire city proud by representing Philadelphia in the state tournament. And while they didn’t bring home a championship, they did bring home a lot of memories and kept the team together for as long as possible.
“Our team is truly special because of our hard work and dedication,” Rachel Kessler said. “We’ve put in countless hours of practice, and that commitment really shows in our performance. The support we give each other is incredible; we celebrate each other’s successes and lift each other up during tough times.
“It’s not just about the competition for us; it’s about building strong friendships and creating unforgettable memories together. We’re proud to represent St. Hubert’s and show what teamwork really means.”
The future is bright because of the Kesslers.
But this year’s team will be remembered for its great mix of newcomers and veterans who paved the way for the younger stars, and showed them what it meant to be a Bambie.
“I want people to know that we have worked extremely hard to earn our spot in states,” said Cooley, who is a flag football captain, president of Philosophy Club and also plays in the Father Judge drum line and for Hunter Elite Soccer Club in Glenside. “Compared to all the other teams in regionals earlier in the month, we were like underdogs, but we pushed hard and earned the top five.
“Coming to states it was the same situation but we didn’t let the talent of the other teams get us down. This team is definitely a strong one and I couldn’t ask for anything more. I am so unbelievably proud of all these girls and I know that they will always do great things.”
