Jefferson boys bowling team has ‘immeasurable potential’

This year’s Cedar Rapids Jefferson boys bowling team has drawn a striking comparison.

The J-Hawks own Class 3A’s second-highest baker average at just under 210 per game. They’re led by a core group of juniors, along with a contributing sophomore and a senior unafraid to step into a vocal leadership role.

It’s a well-rounded roster, loaded with experience and skill — one that reminds Coach Matt Fowler of a group he still holds in high regard.

“These are some of the most talented kids I’ve coached,” Fowler said. “There’s one other class that was this special as far as talent, and that was 2015. I think they still hold the record for the MVC (Mississippi Valley Conference) for season average.”

The 2015 J-Hawks finished second at state.

“The biggest thing I see is that back in 2015, the team cohesion wasn’t the greatest, but their mental approach was quite strong,” Fowler said. “This team, the cohesion is very tight, but their mental games are not quite as developed.

“The kids this year do have that potential; it’s just a little more work in keeping a positive attitude versus that team in the past.”

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Senior leader Landon Davidson agrees.

“We have immeasurable potential,” Davidson said. “We know we can do incredible things. We just need to set our minds to it and continue to perform week in and week out.”

Davidson, the lone varsity senior, is considered the captain and believes his role, at least in part, is to uplift the team’s energy.

“I’m good with being the loud one,” Davidson said. “I want to make sure everyone is having fun and that we’re a team — keep morale up and everyone’s attitudes in check.”

Having four experienced juniors on the roster admittedly makes Davidson’s job a bit simpler.

“We are all very knowledgeable about bowling, so I believe that makes my job as a captain better and easier because we’re all contributing,” Davidson said. “It’s not one person doing everything. It’s everyone collaborating and strengthening the idea that we are a great team.”

Junior Brody Steitz, Colton Fee and Grant Boll all have averages above 204. Right behind them are junior Aden Baccam, sophomore Hunter Andersen and Davidson.

“They’ve grown up with each other and bowl together quite a bit,” Fowler said. “They’re tight-knit, and I think that is definitely a big factor.”

Jefferson downed Cedar Rapids Washington 3,051 to 2,646 on Feb. 6 for its fifth win of the season. One of the J-Hawks’ most impressive victories came on Jan. 15, as they out-rolled Cedar Rapids Prairie, 3,300-3,164. They have scored 3,300 or better in three meets.

The talent is there. So are the expectations.

“We’re definitely going to be contenders for a state title,” Fowler said. “I think that’s just a given if they do everything right — sharpen up the mental skills and refine the fundamentals.”

“This is definitely one of the best teams I’ve been a part of,” Davidson said. “I think the big thing we need to focus on going into this postseason is making sure our goals are in check and that we’re continuing to execute.”

Jefferson will square off against Dubuque Senior on Feb. 13 in its regular-season finale.

The J-Hawks’ state qualifying meet will take place Feb. 16 at Champion Bowl in Ottumwa.