Sophomore Mika Bilicki, bowling a 151 in the team’s first match, led the girls’ bowling team to a season opening 5-2 victory Aug. 27 against against Palm Bay. In Thursday’s match, Bilicki improved, following up with a 170 in a 7-0 loss to Bayside.

“We have a bright season ahead with a strong base of eight girls,” sophomore Callia Karas said. “[Coach Jim] Peterson, gives us good pep talks before the game.”

The boys’ season started with a disappointing moment in tryouts for the seven boys who were cut from the team, after initially believing they’d been included.

“At first I was overjoyed, excited to receive a varsity letter for bowling,” said senior Gage Giunta, one of the seven who were cut. “Then I receive this email, telling me I was not amongst the boys who get to participate. Honestly, I was devastated.”

The boys’ team, led by freshman Chris McCarthy, has struggled in their first two matches, falling to both Palm Bay and Bayside 6-1.

Despite the team’s early struggles, Peterson remains optimistic.

“I was most proud of everyone’s effort, attitude and sportsmanship,” Peterson said. “The teams clapped for each other and were very supportive. We’re off to a great start.”

The next bowling match for both teams is scheduled for Tuesdsay at 4 p.m. against Eau Gallie at Harbor Lanes on Wickham Road.