“My parents met at a bowling alley, so I’ve pretty much been bowling since I could walk,” Hoff said, smiling. “It’s really nice to have made my decision, I’ve had people ask me where I’m going since freshman year and now, I have an answer.”
Hoff, who averaged 201 as a junior, is currently carrying a 212 average with a 266 high game this season for the undefeated Thunderbolts.
From her first red, yellow and green swirled bowling ball when she was 9 years old to a growing arsenal of Storm balls in preparation for college competition, some things have changed but Hoff’s love of the game remains as strong as ever.
“Bowling gave me a second family, I knew that’s where I wanted to be,” she said. “My bowling family brings me so much joy and motivation.”
Much like Hoff, Hurley has been bowling for almost as long as she can remember. The Sidney bowler is quick to credit her great-grandfather for his constant encouragement.
“He has always supported me and help keep me motivated,” Hurley said. “He even keeps a scrapbook of all my accomplishments.”
After starting her high school career with a 160 average, Hurley steadily improved and was carrying a 210 average heading into Christmas break.
“I think I always had the technique, but my mental game has definitely improved in recent years,” she said. “I bowl more for myself now.”
While Hurley looked at other schools, Indiana Tech was the right fit for the three-time district qualifier.
“When I visited, I got to bowl with their team,” she said. “They all just seemed to have a great connection with each other. Some places I visited I couldn’t see myself calling it home, but I definitely could there.”
While college bowling is on the horizon, neither Hoff nor Hurley are looking past their senior season as both bowlers have personal and team goals on their to-do list.
“But it definitely takes the weight off a bit to know what comes next,” Hoff said.
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