It doesn’t surprise Brian Montini, head coach of Saginaw Nouvel Catholic Central boys varsity bowling team, that Alex McCarthy, a sophomore second-year varsity bowler, was the Division II state champion.
“It was an excellent followup to his freshman season,” Montini said. “Alex and I started this journey at the same time. This is also my second season as head coach. The team worked hard together to help Alex achieve his goal for this season: state champion. I could not be happier to witness and have a part in Alex winning this championship.
“Alex took first place both years in the TVC West conference. His average this year was 202 in 23 games and last year he had a 208 in 24 games. Alex was first team all conference both years and was given the TVC Sportsmanship Award this year, as well. Beyond those great stats, as a team, he helped us become Division 4 Team Regional Champions this year allowing us to take the team to states. Unfortunately, we did not do as well during the team event.”
The keys to McCarthy’s success, Montini said, “has been hard work. Alex has been bowling since he was 2 years old. His grandfather would take him to the bowling alley. Alex learned a lot from this experience and owes all of his success because of his grandfather. Alex is also a great all around person. Everyone knows Alex and when he is bowling there are a lot of eyes on him. He just has a natural form that you do not see very often due to the current take-off of two-handed bowling.
Montini said focus has been a key behind McCarthy’s success.
“Alex has been able to understand the league, bowlers and lane conditions to make the necessary adjustment to achieve the success he has had,” Montini said. “Alex bowls in a league with other teammates during the offseason. Alex’s true love is golf. As great of a bowling talent he is, he also carries that talent on the golf course.
“Alex is looking forward to this upcoming golf season as he would love to have a similar season and win a state golf championship. Alex would love to have a future in golf.”