Richae, Hoffman Estates lead a winning battle

Mid-Suburban League girls bowlers were competing for a cure Thursday night at Arlington Lanes.

While rolling their usual conference matches, the MSL players were also bowling for the fight against epilepsy.

"In addition to showing awareness," said Hoffman Estates coach Dan Pfligler, "the teams were raising money for the cause. All of the teams were wearing a 'Bowl for the Cure - Strike Against Epilepsy' t-shirt, and many people were supporting by not only wearing the shirts but also making donations.

"The CEO of the Greater Chicago Epilepsy Foundation was here," continued Pfligler, "and his jaw dropped when he saw how many fans came out to support our fundraiser."

According to Pfligler, the funds raised will go to support Alexian Brothers epilepsy clinics in Hoffman Estates and Elgin.

Meanwhile, on the lanes, the Hawks continued to excel.

Hoffman Estates defeated Buffalo Grove 7-2, led by sophomore Amanda Richae, who excelled at Wednesday's meet by rolling a 699 series - the best in the league so far this year.

"It was a cool scene tonight," said Richae, "to see all the bowlers wearing the shirts and supporting the cause. There were quite a lot of people here, and it was great to see."

Richae added that a switchup in equipment pushed her to her high series.

"I made a ball change and that helped me," said the sophomore. "I just felt that it was time for a change."

Hersey stayed in first place in the league with a 7-2 victory, and coach Julie Arias was impressed with the bowlers' commitment to the cause.

"It was great," said Arias. "They were running a 50/50 raffle, and they had a booth where they were selling t-shirts and wristbands. It was an incredible night for raising awareness for epilepsy."

The Huskies were led on the lanes Thursday by sophomore Emma Wrenn, who fired a 672 series including a 256 game.

"We were able to stay in first place," said Arias, "so that's exciting."