The Wayland girls’ varsity bowling team, returning only one starter from last year’s squad, started the season with a 28-2 victory over O-K Gold Conference rival Grand Rapids South Christian Monday.

The boys’ team, meanwhile, lost 20-10 to the Sailors.

The Lady Wildcats are green and they were hit hard particularly by the graduation of state champion Sydney Urben.

“I was a bit nervous for our girls season to begin this year as we only have one returning starter,” said senior anchor and Captain Amber Beggs

“South Christian has been one of our big competitors over the years, and I was trying to keep my eye on Mike Omness’ team as I was coaching my boys,” said Sherry Miklusicak. “Most of the matches were very close, but we dug deep and came out on top.”

The Wayland ladies took the first Baker game 107-96 and the second by a score of 162-95.

Lainey Rollandini had scores of 121 and 69, winning her second point.

“Lainey is a sophomore and is much stronger this year and has gained confidence,” he coach said.

Haley Taylor’s 103 won her first ever match as a freshman. Lilly Gates rolled a 92 has never bowled before and is a freshman as well

Kendra VanKoevering came up with a 141 and 92, taking both games in her sophomore year.

Bella Harnish took both of her points with a 141 and 124.

“Bella has experience from junior leagues and will only improve as the season progresses,” her coach commented.

Beggs won both of her matches with a 182 and 180.

“I really like this girl, as she is such a positive influence on the younger bowlers and has such a happy deameanor,” Omness said.

Miklusicak said of her guys, “We were in the first Baker game but came up short in the last couple of frames and lost 169-156. The second Baker game was much worse for a sick and injured team, as we lost 184-127.

Freshman Mark Musgrave saw his first varsity experience and Miklusicak said she was pleased with his bowling.

Senior Jarod Geerligs returned from a two-year hiatus to help the team and even picked up an amazing 4-10 split.

Rounding out the team tonight were the Oosterhouse brothers Max and Noah. Highlights of the evening were from senior Christian Courser who claimed both of his points with games of 180 and 156. Anchor and senior Dillon Smith led the Wildcat men with fine games of 191 and 243, taking his second point.