Carolyn Miller are actually split- ting the duties between the two teams. Rather than have separate programs, they’ve structured it so that the Tigers are one program, one team. “I like that it’s not divided be- cause we (practice) in the same area and we go to the same meets,” Miller said. “We’re here to help every single player do their best.” “Believe it or not, some of the girls will respond better to me than (Miller), and some of the boys will respond better to her than me,” Emery said. The girls’ program, which posted a 3-5 record and finished fifth at the conference tournament a sea- son ago, may not have the “state or bust” expectations, but that doesn’t mean Miller hasn’t set lofty goals. Can the Tigers contend for a conference championship? Can they made a solid postseason run? Both coaches agree: Never say never.
Kilee Miller, Sarah Thatcher, Kiera Miller
“The beauty is we’re saying that now and the season just started,” Miller said. “For me it’s just really neat to have kids who are excited. Some of these girls have gone from never bowling before to being able to be com- petitive with other teams.”
son ago, and she was closely fol- lowed by twin sisters Kiera and Kilee Miller at 144.94 and 136.00, respectively. And all three expect even bigger things out of themselves this winter. Both coaches have seen the work they’ve put in to get better. A lot better.
drive she has,” Emery said. “Kiera, I think she’ll average around a 180 this year, and if they don’t, I think they’ll be very upset with them- selves.” It’s a testament to the coaches and student-athletes with just how far this program has come in such a short amount of time. The pro- gram was established only three years ago, but it didn’t take it long to flourish. And the participation numbers continue to increase. “Bowling is a sport that anyone can play regardless of talent level,” Miller said. “It’s really a sport for any kid, which is nice and it makes it exciting.”
The girls won their first meet of the season over Knoxville as well, and they have a solid trio of senior leaders to lean on when the spot- light shines bright. Sarah Thatcher posted a team-high 144.44 average a sea-
“We have three really solid players,” Miller said.
Emery joked the Miller twins seemingly lived in the bowling alley during the offseason, and the proof is in the pudding, so to speak. “Kilee should be averaging close to 185 or 190 this year with the
WANT MORE INFORMATION ON GILBERT GIRLS BOWLING? Use the QR Code to go to the team site on Bound. Results will be updated throughout the season.
34 GAME ON | WINTER 2023-24
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