After senior co-captain Roux Swaminathan’s fifth strike in a row, the Blue Devils celebrated with fist bumps and cheers from within the team along with encouragement from Roselle Park’s bowlers.
Coming off a recent tough loss to Scotch Plains-Fanwood, Westfield was eager to bounce back and regain confidence before their busy three-game stretch this week. The Blue Devils made it clear they were the better team early in the first game, starting off with a quick lead as senior Will Singer bowled a turkey through the first four frames. They went on to win the first game by 156 pins, led by Swamination’s 9 strike, 245 pin game.
Swaminathan credits the successful game to the hard work put in this weekend and the enthusiasm of the team. “I threw a lot of strikes because I was practicing this weekend which worked well,” said Swaminathan.
Singer had a season high 503 series and multiple strikes contributing to his impressive afternoon. Singer felt more confident today as he figured out how to use his new ball. He credited his success to the ball, saying “I got a new strike ball on Thursday, tried it, and it was working out well.”
Energy seemed to play a big part for the Blue Devils success today. Swaminathan said, “I think we also had a lot of energy on the court today,” which contributed to a positive environment Westfield was able to thrive in.
Westfield was not only supportive of each other, but even the Roselle Park Panthers. Singer said, “I know a lot of the [opponents]. I am known as the jokester on the team, so I always mess around with people and make great friendships”
Coach Matthew Varhley was proud of the team and said, “A [dominant] win like this builds confidence and reinforces the work we’ve been putting in during practices and matches.”
Regarding the team’s potential, Varhley said, “It shows the team that when we stay focused, trust our fundamentals, and support one another, we can compete at a high level. Moving forward, we are one of a few teams with a chance to compete for a conference championship.”
Swaminathan explained, “At the end of the season for counties, all the points that we earn are added up and determine our rankings, so the points here will help determine where we stand for the end of the season.”
Looking forward, the Blue Devils are hoping to use their improved confidence from today. Singer said, “I hope this win will keep our heads high for tomorrow’s game, and then carry into Thursday’s game before the break.”
Westfield has a quick turnaround, and faces Rahway on Dec. 16.
