By Lauren Barbour

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On Oct. 18, MHS boys and girls bowling teams competed in the Oahu Interscholastic Association (OIA) championship at Schofield Lanes. The girls team placed second, while the boys team placed third. Besides both teams qualifying for states, Senior Ronson Dagdag and Junior Danielle August became the boys and girls champions in the individual tournaments.

“Our goal was to win the OIA championship, as well as the state tournament. So we’re still working towards those goals,” assistant coach Corey Zukeran explained. Even after the OIA championship, the teams still have the state tournament to compete in.

Besides the coaches’ goals for the students, players also had their own individual goals. “I set that goal (of winning) for myself,” Dagdag said, continuing, “As soon as my brother won … I made my goal to match that.” Dagdag’s brother also placed in the championship during his sophomore year in 2005.

For August, it is her second time as girls champion. She placed last year as a sophomore, and wanted to succeed again this year. “I feel that it is pretty important for me to defend my title,” August said.

Even though the OIA championship is over, Dagdag and August still have to compete in the state tournament. They were boys and girls champions in the OIA, and also wish to do well in states. “I really want to place first in states,” August said, continuing, “I really want our team to place first as well.” Dagdag added, “Right now, I’m focusing on trying to win state championships, individually and team, if we can. Hopefully, in the near future, I can go to the mainland to compete in other big tournaments and national tournaments.”

Although the first step is over, the teams will still have to work hard as they start practicing for states, which will be held on Nov. 1 and 2 at Lihue Bowling Center on Kauai.