BY JOSH LASHLEY
WEST MILFORD — The true test of how well rounded a team captain is can’t be witnessed solely upon how they perform on an individual level. For a captain to be a complete success, he or she should also interact in a constructive and meaningful manner with teammates.
This season, the West Milford High School bowling program has a solid core of student-athletes who have earned the distinction of being named captain; they are Andrew Finke, Justin Gerity and Tyler Nicol. Finke and Gerity are juniors and Nicol is a sophomore.
“(They were chosen as captains because of their) leadership abilities, being responsible athletes, dedication, and assisting in the nurture and development of the newer bowlers,” West Milford head coach John Caillie said.
“Andrew Finke is a two winter sport athlete, bowling and basketball, and has maintained a 192-plus average in bowling. He has proven himself as a gifted athlete as well as maintaining his grades," said Caillie. "Tyler Nicol has maintained a 178-plus average and has showed leadership skills as well as assisting in helping our less experienced bowlers. Justin Gerity is a dedicated and fun-loving person. His charm and leadership skills are a breath of fresh air to the team.”
Caillie is continually encouraged by the improvements shown by his three captains as both individual bowlers and leaders on the squad.
“They have shown dedication and devotion to the sport, and have come far and above my expectations of them from the first practices and matches,” Caillie said. “All have met or exceeded their academic standards, and have participated in school and or community extra-curricular activities."
These leaders work well together“They work with each other to improve upon their individual skills and abilities," Caillie continued. "No one is left out and they all work together for a common goal of success. They show a great deal of sportsmanship toward each other and other teams, whether in victory or defeat. They show a sense of school and self- pride in all that they do.”
The head coach mentioned some of the other bowlers who were among those who contributed in a big way for the Highlanders this winter.
“Jennifer and Jessica Goldberg, as well as Michael Nicholas have played important roles, bouncing back and forth at times between junior varsity and varsity when needed,” Caillie said. “West Milford has a great group of athletes, showing leadership, sportsmanship and academic skills. I am proud to have such a wonderful group and am proud to be their coach.”
West Milford Varsity Bowling Team
Andrew Finke - junior co-captain
Justin Gerity - junior co-captain
Tyler Nicol - sophomore co-captain
Brandon Bollwork - junior
Matthew Burlum - sophomore
Jennifer Goldberg - sophomore
Jessica Goldberg - sophomore
Marcus Boguszewski - sophomore
Matthew Evanchick - sophomore
Frances Starace - sophomore
Matthew Rosenberg - freshman
Michael Nicholas - freshman
Nicholas Bartoli - freshman
Collin Longeill - freshman