A career milestone was broken as the Woodbridge High School Bowling team defeated Old Bridge to start the season. Coach Amanda Small reached 100 career wins in her high school coaching career.
“I honestly never thought about it,” said Coach Small. “I am just appreciative of all the players in the program throughout the last seven seasons that made this possible.”
Small is no stranger to success, graduating from Woodbridge in 2007 as one of the high school’s best bowlers ever. She led the Barrons to a state championship in 2006 and the Tournament of Champions in 2007. During her sophomore year, Small was named First-Team All-State, Star-Ledger Bowler of the Year, Home News Tribune Bowler of the Year, First-Team All-Area, and All-GMC White Division.
With her list of achievements since becoming coach, Small said, “It’s not about the wins or losses. It’s about seeing how much the student-athletes care and enjoy doing this. How much time are they willing to put in on off days, during the offseason, or even after a match or tournament? It’s about seeing everyone succeed not just in bowling but in life.”
When asked about how the team celebrated, team captain Christian Kokalenios said, “The parents brought a cake and balloons and we took a couple of pictures, everyone was just happy that she got her 100th win.”
Small, who’s in her last season as the Barrons Bowling Coach, wants to “go out with a bang” and finish unfinished business from the previous season. Woodbridge has yet to have a losing season under Small and is currently 3-2. Their next upcoming match is on Friday, Dec. 13. against Old Bridge at 3:30 at Majestic Lanes.