By Dan McGrath
The bowling season came to an end for the Leo Lions with an 11th-place finish among 14 teams in the IHSA Class 2-A regional.
The Lions did not advance to sectional competition, but it was still a memorable tournament for sophomore Christian Whiteside, whose team-leading 176.5 average included a career-high 250 game.
“Best game I’ve ever had in my life,” said Whiteside, who’s also one of the leading voices in the world-renowned Leo Choir.
His 176.5 average placed 29th among individuals in the regional field. Freshman London Stephens (164.5 average, 196 high game) and Isaac Hall (148.2 average, 194 high game) were Leo’s other top finishers.
Oak Lawn, Morgan Park, Brother Rice and Simeon advanced to sectional competition.
A week earlier, at the Catholic League South tournament, Leo placed sixth among eight teams, Joshua Robinson leading the way with a 146 average and a 223 high game. Whiteside (125), Russell Linder (124), Clyde Akin (123) and Da’vi Asberry (122) followed, with Akin rolling a high game of 198.
Brother Rice, Providence Catholic, Mt. Carmel and St. Laurence were the top four finishers in team competition.
“It was a good year,” Coach Darryl Wedgeworth said. “We improved consistently, and by the end of the year some of our youngest bowlers were our best bowlers. So if they continue to improve, the future is bright.”