HOWARD — Jordan Hull remembers last year’s district tournament bowling game too well.
It’s propelled him and the rest of the East Knox boys bowling team to a spot in the state tournament.
Along with the boys team advancing, East Knox senior Olivia Nastasi also reached the state tournament — a first for both Nastasi and boys team.
The Bulldogs’ boys squad just missed qualifying for the state tournament by 40 pins last winter.
“I laid on the ground and stared at the ceiling,” Hull said. “That disappointment was so overwhelming.
“After putting us in the position to get it and loosing it at the very last second, (it was the) most painful thing I ever experienced.”
It was a harsh reality that created a somber feeling Hull and his teammates owned throughout this season.
Last week, going into the last Baker round, Hull knew it was going to be another close call with Heath. But EK edged in front to advance.
It was that close call a year ago that offered the incentive leading to constant improvements at practice, self reflection and improved team chemistry.
When there were moments of hardship, the team approached a “listen first” mentality.
“That is the type of person I am,” Hull said.
The team placed second at the district tournament, beating the third-place Mechanicsburg by 62 pins.
Nastasi is also KMAC bowler of the year; KMAC first team and KMAC All-Academic.
The East Knox bowling program is led by high school history teacher Chip Pozderac. He’s led the program for three years, continuing to improve each season.
Now the team is at the pinnacle of the sport in Ohio bowling circles.
Making it to state gave Nastasi and Hull an “overwhelming sense of joy and pride” for the district. Hull said the Bulldgos’ mentality is to not go out quietly.
The team has grown with members — one being first-year bowler Blake Calhoon who helped the squad “get through a lot of matches,” Hull said.
Nastasi has been a bright beacon for this season, Pozderac said, adding her dedication, timing and coachability has led the senior bowlers this year.
“She’s cool under pressure,” Pozderac said. “She’s closed so many games.”
State competition will take place at HP Lanes in Columbus on March 1 and 2. Further details can be found here.