The Flyers have extended their streak of 9-0 wins to start the season to five, bringing the team's net score to 45-0 thus far - the best start to a season in the storied history of Chaminade bowling.Â
After a heartbreaking loss in the NSCHSAA championship match last year, head coach Gregory Gerner and the Flyers have embraced a new mantra for this season: Redemption and Focus. This mindset has been a huge piece to the puzzle for the Crimson and Gold through their first five matches.
Additionally, the depth of the squad has been a massive factor. With talented bowlers from all four grade levels, the Flyers are able to incorporate a variety of lineup combinations and thus find success in a number of ways.
"Our depth has really helped us this season," admitted Gerner. "Having two freshmen and a sophomore who we can enter into the game to help us is a pleasure."
The balanced attack has permitted coach Gerner and assistant coach John Callinan to play the "numbers game."
"We are able to play the strengths of our high averages against theirs," explained Gerner. "A positive attitude and a stable game supports us in doing so."
In particular, the team's starting lineup, spearheaded by senior Alexander Fiorillo, has been able to lead the attack.Â
Fiorillo, the team's captain, has averaged 207.33 pins per game - with a high game of 235 and a high series of 681. With last year's captain, Daniel Tufano, now a graduate, Fiorillo has stepped into the role and excelled, encouraging his teammates along the way.
"Alex has led the charge for us this year. His ability to stay consistent and motivate the team is pivotal," praised Gerner. "His strong performances inspire confidence across the lineup and give us the edge we need to come out on top."
However, the Flyers were without their captain on December 10, when their shutout streak was most recently put to the test by the St. Dominic's Bayhawks. Despite the significant absence of Fiorillo, the Flyers weren't deterred, as they cruised to yet another 9-0 victory at Bowlero Mineola.
Once again, the lineup's depth loomed large, as sophomore Damian Torres and freshman Ayden Kelly seamlessly stepped into starting spots when called upon. Bowling in a combined three games, the two accounted for 493 of the Flyers' 2,949 pins.
Michael Cohen also shined, collecting the highest average of the day for the Crimson and Gold with 203 pins per game. Â
Freshman James Clarke also chipped in, racking up a 558 series and 186 average over his three games to push the Flyers across the finish line, improving their record to 5-0.
After a 28-day extended Christmas hiatus, the Crimson and Gold aim to continue their incredible run this afternoon at 4:00 p.m. against St. Mary's at Bowl 360 in New Hyde Park.
"We have to keep focused and keep practicing," said Gerner. "It will be a very crunched rest of the season, but hopefully we can keep this streak going!"