Delaney Yant’s passion began early. Someone visited her elementary school, and invited the kids to bowl.  It was a Saturday morning league, with kids aged 8-12. Her parents were supportive of her desire to join. As a fourth-grader, she spent many hours practicing and competing in bowling matches. Not every elementary student can say that.

Yant saw her work pay off her junior year when the girls bowling team took home a State trophy. That was last year. Now, Yant is a senior, 18 years old, and the only returning member of last year’s hugely successful team.

When asked about this season, Yant said that it is hard, “because everyone’s new.” But that doesn’t stop her from having fun, and setting some high goals. Yant said the team bonding events planned by coach Jeff Leavitt have been the “most fun part of this season.” She also is really looking forward to trying to meet her goal of going to state individually this season.

Leavitt has full faith in her ability to do so, even saying he believes she can place in the top five individual bowlers at State. Although it is only Leavitt’s second year coaching (and first as head coach) for the Panthers, he had plenty to say about Yant. Leavitt explained how Yant has embraced her role as a leader this season and commented on her constant positivity.

“She’s always smiling even when things are tough. She’s another coach on the lanes,” Leavitt added, remarking on her quickness to share what she knows with teammates.

Leavitt’s focus for the year is on constant improvement and Delaney is an excellent example, bowling an average score of 188 this season compared to her 160 last year.

When asked about this season Yant said, “I feel like this is my peak.”

Yant’s senior season is bittersweet for her but she is very excited for what’s to come. She is still thinking about the possibility of bowling in college; in order to do so competitively she’d have to move far away.

Coming off of last year’s thrilling season you might assume this year is frustrating to Yant and Leavitt. However, this is not the case. There is a lot these two want to accomplish this season and a lot of fun to be had.