New York State USBC Awards $21,400 In Scholarships to Youth Bowlers For Achievements On & Off the Lanes

Date Posted: June 8th, 2024

Brewster, NY - The New York State USBC is thrilled to announce the awarding of $21,400 in scholarships to outstanding youth bowlers for their remarkable achievements on and off the lanes during the 2023-24 bowling season. This year’s awards highlight not only athletic prowess but also academic excellence, community involvement, and personal growth, celebrating the well-rounded achievements of young bowlers across New York State.

In partnership with the New York State Bowling Proprietors Association (NYS BPA) for the second consecutive season, the scholarship program has been significantly enhanced, providing greater opportunities for youth bowlers through added scholarship funds. This collaboration highlights a shared commitment to nurturing the next generation of bowlers and supporting their educational goals.

Frank Wilkinson, NYS USBC Vice President and Chair of the NYS USBC YES Committee, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "We are immensely proud of the dedication and passion demonstrated by our youth bowlers. The compelling stories we heard through this year’s applications emphasize the profound impact bowling has on their lives, fostering resilience, friendship, and personal growth. We are grateful for the continued support from the NYS BPA and the NYS USBC Youth Leaders, whose contributions have made this program possible."

Joe LaSpina, President of the NYS BPA, added, "Our partnership with the NYS USBC is a testament to our collective belief in the power of bowling to shape young lives positively. By sponsoring the scholarship program, we aim to provide these talented youth with the resources they need to succeed both on the lanes and in their academic endeavors. Congratulations to all the recipients for their hard work and achievements."

This year, the Youth Spirit Awards Application included a new question: "What is it about bowling that keeps you coming back to the lanes week after week, and how has your passion for the sport influenced your life on and off the lanes?" The responses were awe-inspiring, reflecting how bowling keeps youth active, fosters friendships, helps them overcome adversity, and instills a lasting passion for the sport.

The top award, a $4,000 scholarship named in honor of NYSWBA and NYSUSBC Past President Priscilla "Pat" Zonneville, was awarded to Camryn Stefanini of Corning. Camryn is an exemplary student and athlete, holding a 218 league average at Crystal Lanes. He has been a member of the National Honors Society, served on the Student Council, not only bowled on the bowling team for 4 years, but he also played soccer and served as the team manager. Camryn plans to attend Midland University to study Elementary Education.

Here is the complete list of scholarship award recipients:

Graduating High School Senior Awards

🎳 Camryn Stefanini, Corning - $4,000
🎳 Kaitlyn Eisentraut, Middletown - $3,000
🎳 Katie Ackerman, Castleton - $2,000
🎳 Rainah Roos, Penfield - $2,000
🎳 Kailyn Bloch, East Islip - $1,000
🎳 Cira Arcangel, Lake Ronkonkoma - $1,000
🎳 Averyanna Thomas, Connelly - $1,000
🎳 Dylan Dwyer, Coram - $1,000
🎳 Kailey O'Connell, Yorktown Heights - $1,000
🎳 Payton Hoffay, Kingston - $1,000
🎳 Olivia Hamilton, Homer - $1,000
🎳 Donald Wu, Flushing - $1,000

Youth Spirit Awards - Grades 9 to 11

🎳 Michael Keane, Staten Island - $500
🎳 Mylie Weyant, Rome - $250
🎳 Anna Kanakos, Taberg - $150
🎳 Kaylee Dwyer, Coram - $100
🎳 Edward Parente, Staten Island - $100

Youth Spirit Awards - Grades 5 to 8

🎳 Thomas Carey, Staten Island - $300
🎳 Sky Corradino, Brewster - $150
🎳 Justin Shaffer, Endicott - $100
🎳 Charlotte Wierzbicki, Rockville Centre - $100

Future Star Awards - Grades K to 4

🎳 Luca Kaufman, Schenectady - $300
🎳 Giuliana Lovett, Altamont - $150
🎳 Olivia Monaco, Staten Island - $100
🎳 Averie Shuler, Bronx - $100 

For more information about the scholarship program, please visit the New York State USBC website at www.bowlny.com/youth-scholarships.

Sponsors

Begin'rs to Pros