For many student-athletes, senior year is defined by the pressures of higher expectations, heavier workloads and the looming reality of life after high school. For Riverside Brookfield High School senior Abby Ford, the girls bowling team offers space to compete, connect and enjoy her final year as a student-athlete. They’re among the reasons she joined as a junior in the Bulldogs’ first official season.
“I stayed with bowling my senior year because I had so much fun last season – and I knew it would be even better this year,” she said. “I also convinced more of my friends to join, which made the experience even more memorable.”
The Bulldogs are 5-5 in Upstate Eight Conference duals with one forfeit victory and 25 out of a possible 50 points. Teams compete for five points each UEC dual – one point for each of the three games and two points for the series winner.
Ford owns the Bulldogs’ highest three-game series this season with a 480 against Streamwood, Dec. 4 (188-145-147). Ford has seen improvement from junior year, particularly in her consistency and approach,
“I’ve improved by learning how to bowl strategically based on pin positioning and by becoming more consistent with my form,” she said. “That consistency has helped both my confidence and my scores.”
As a two-sport athlete, Ford balances bowling alongside varsity and club soccer while maintaining strong academic performance. Managing those commitments can be challenging, but she prioritizes time management and performance.
That balance is especially important because soccer remains her primary focus. Ford was a starting outside defender for the varsity last spring.
“Soccer is my main sport, so I put more pressure on myself there,” she said. “Bowling is different. I still want to improve and score higher, but I don’t beat myself up because I knew coming into bowling I would use it as an outlet to spend time with friends who also love to compete.”
Ford’s goals reflect both individual growth and team connection.
“Individually I want to stay consistent and beat my high score from last season, which I’ve already done,” she said. “As a team, I think it’s important to bond and celebrate each other’s successes, whether that’s a strike or a new personal best.”
Beyond athletics, Ford said her involvement across school activities has shaped her high school experience. This past year she was recognized with an RBHS School Citizen of the Year award, an honor given to students who demonstrate leadership, integrity, and a strong commitment to their school community.
“Winning the SCOTY award meant a lot to me,” she said. “I think my involvement at RBHS through sports, academics, and being a model for incoming Bulldogs to look up to has shaped the person I’m becoming.”
The recognition reflects not just Ford’s achievements, but the positive impact she’s made through her four years. Looking ahead, she said the lessons from athletics will stay with her.
“I’m not planning on playing sports at the collegiate level,” Ford said. “However, athletics have taught me balance, teamwork, and how to enjoy the process – lessons I’ll carry with me beyond high school.”
Boys bowling
RBHS, Lyons Township and Nazareth compete at the Oak Lawn Regional Friday at Palos Lanes. The Bulldogs currently are 4-11 in the UEC with 23 points.
Top season averages include sophomore Teddy Kowalski (176), who achieved his first 600-plus three-game series on Jan. 6 (643), and seniors Finn Lubeck (170) and Jaden Barrett (167).
Bill Stone contributed to this story.