It’s worth the wait for Brugioni, Grant

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Grant senior Dom Brugioni couldn't wait for the start of the boys bowling season.

His high school, after all, had never had a team.

Now, things are rolling for Brugioni and his new teammates.

"When Grant considered boys volleyball, they weren't sure about adding boys bowling," said Grant coach Angela Balaneg, who had been an assistant with the girls bowling team. "But when dance became a sport, that's when they added it. It finally all came together. It's wonderful to be a part of a team that's working toward a goal. It's also good that we can celebrate success so early."

Grant has started the season well and boasts 17 bowlers. That number is expected to grow in coming years.

The name Brugioni is nothing new when it comes to Grant bowling. Dom's sister Brie was one of the state's best while bowling for the Bulldogs. She graduated in 2010.

Now it's Dom's turn to roll — strikes.

"I've really been waiting for this for seven years," said Brugioni, who averages around 230. "I wish this would have happened when I was a freshman. I finally heard it was going to happen at the end of my sophomore year. I was like, 'This is going to be awesome by the time I'm a senior.' I was talking with friends, at first, seeing if they were going to come out. Some did come out."

Joining Brugioni are seniors Richard Huber and Justin Schaefer and sophomores Walter Foreman and Mitch Norris. Grant is confident it can compete this season, despite being the new kid on the block.

"I expect there will be a lot of challenges," Brugioni said. "There will be different lane conditions. We've got a competitive team. If we can practice enough, we could make it to state."

Brugioni became more serious about bowling in the seventh grade. He has improved by competing in travel leagues.

"I've learned to be dedicated to something," Brugioni said. "I really wasn't dedicated at first. I had done a lot of other sports, such as gymnastics and tennis. When you're older, you understand more."

Brugioni's patience has paid off.