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Published: February 10, 2010 11:23 pm

BOYS BOWLING: GI's Strauss expects success at sectionals

GRAND ISLAND — Alex Strauss has been to the New York City area for vacation. Now he’d like to mix a little business with pleasure.

The Grand Island senior has his eyes set on a berth in the State Championships at Mardi Bob Lanes in Poughkeepsie March 6 and 7.

“I loved it when I visited there and now I want to go back with my teammates,” Strauss said on the eve of the Section VI Championships at Thruway Lanes. “It’s our last chance to show what we’ve got. I think we’ve got what it takes.”

Vikings coach Craig Davis agreed.

“I’m expecting big things at sectionals,” he said. “We want to push Niagara Falls.”

Of course, owning a dual meet victory over the five-time defending Niagara Frontier League champions certainly helps GI’s psyche. The Vikings used that season-opening win to propel themselves to a 10-4 league mark, good enough for second place.

“This season has been great,” Strauss said. “Everything started coming together for us.”

The same could be said when talking about the right-handed flamethrower. Strauss, who has been a member of the Vikings since seventh grade, developed into one of the top keglers in the league this winter. He finished with a 215 average, fourth best in the NFL.

Strauss credits his increased work in the weight room — yes, a bowler pumping iron — and some physical maturity for his big improvement. Davis, meanwhile, likes his team’s captain’s mental approach to the game.

“He always keeps a steady head,” the coach said.

Physical and mental maturity aside, Strauss is also a poster child for hard work. According to Davis, his work ethic is second to none. He’s constantly working on his spare shooting and by throwing a hard, down-and-in shot, his game sets up well for Thruway Lanes’ oil pattern.

“His shot usually grabs right into the pocket and stays right there,” Davis said. “I think he’s going to do great (Thursday).”

Strauss plans to attend Niagara County Community College next fall. He then hopes to transfer to the University at Buffalo for engineering. He would like to continue his bowling career whether it be in recreational leagues or at the college level if the Trailblazers add the sport as is being speculated.

Contact reporter Nate Beutel at 282-2311, ext. 2262.





ALEX STRAUSS

• SCHOOL: Grand Island

• SPORT: Boys bowling

• GRADE: Senior

• AVERAGE: 215, fourth best in the NFL

• COACH’S QUOTE: “I think he’s going to do great (Thursday).”

— Craig Davis