Before the first bowler threw a strike at Monday afternoon’s Chelsea High School Bowling Team practice, the squad was called together for a meeting, which included a big surprise.
The team was presented with a $1,600 donation from former bowling coach Rick Benson and his wife, Joni to help fund the season.
The owners of Benson Hearing donated $100 from each hearing aid sold in November to the team, which is considered a club sport and as such, receives no funding from the Chelsea District Schools or the Chelsea Athletic Boosters.
“You are the future of this sport,” Rick Benson told the about 40 team members before the check presentation.
He said that he and his wife wanted to make it easier for the coaches and the bowlers to concentrate on bowling rather than fundraising this winter. And that they did.
Head Coach Eddy Greenleaf said the donation will pay for transportation to bowling matches, bowling fees and equipment.
“I can’t thank Rick and Joni enough for their contribution not only to Chelsea Bowling but also to this community,” Greenleaf said, adding, “Small local business owners like Rick and Joni are the backbone of this community.”
Rick Benson, who coached the JV players for four years, is no longer able to bowl, but the household still contains a bowler. The exchange student who is staying in their home as well as three other female exchange students joined the bowling program this year and the Bensons plan to go watch and cheer them on when they compete.
“Realistically, bowling is a sport that can be enjoyed from 4 to 104 years old; it’s a life-long sport,” Rick Benson said.
And 2014 is the first of what the couple promises will be annual support for the team.
The program has had a lot of success as well.
Last year, for example, the boy’s squad finished the season as SEC champions and one bowler qualified for the state meet.
Greenleaf said that Chelsea High School typically fields one of the largest teams in the conference and the team is led by its seniors. In fact, he said, there are about 22 girls and boys who returned to the team this year.
Girls Coach Tom Debacker said he’s really excited for this year’s girl’s team, as well, saying that they have a real chance at having a break-out season due to their talent and experience.
“We have an outstanding group of bowlers,” Greenleaf said, adding that they worked hard during the offseason on their games. Plus, he said, there are a lot of new bowlers this year as well.
“The greatest thing about this sport,” Greenleaf said, “We don’t get the typical athlete. These kids get to step out on the lanes and succeed, and there is nothing greater than seeing the smiles, the high fives, the laughter and now, not have to worry about this (fundraising) stuff.”
Joni Benson said, “I’m just so happy we can give back and make this happen for the kids and we know it will make a huge difference.”
The team opens its season at home on Monday, Dec. 8 at 3:30 p.m. against Adrian at Chelsea Lanes and everyone is invited to cheer on the team.
