Athlete of the Week: 10 questions with Madeline Blake, New Trier bowling

Madeline Blake is a senior bowler for the Trevians. She recorded a pinfall of 1,160 (193 average) to finish third overall and lead New Trier’s sectional-qualifying effort in the Schaumburg Regional. Blake also runs cross-country for New Trier.

1. Do you have any pregame rituals or superstitions?

Before a tournament, I listen to the song “Hometown Glory,” by Adele, and before each shot, I normally put my hand over the air and have to pick the ball with my right hand.

2. What do you hope to do next year?

I’m definitely going to go to college to study architecture, but I’m not sure which school. I’ve taken (architecture) classes at New Trier every year since freshman year and I’ve really enjoyed it.

3. What is your favorite thing to do when you’re not bowling?

Probably going for runs or reading.

4. When did you first get into bowling?

I did the bowling summer school at New Trier, and after that I decided to join the team my freshman year.

5. What do you enjoy most about bowling?

I really enjoy the team and the culture we have created; it is a super supportive environment and we have a lot of fun at practices and in tournaments.

6. What has been your top bowling moment so far?

I’d say probably advancing as a team to the sectional. Last year we did not advance as a team, and this year we were really hoping to advance and then finding out we’re projected to qualify for the state tournament.

7. If you could compete in another sport, what would it be?

I feel like water polo. It just seems like interesting and not like anything I’ve ever done before.

8. If you are in Walgreens with a couple bucks, what are you buying?

(Extra) Polar Ice gum.

9. What is something people don’t know about you?

This is kind of weird but I eat a pear every single day after dinner. I’ve been doing it for probably like two years. They are just always sitting on our table, so every day I just take one and eat it.

10. How do you hope the season ends for this team?

I really hope this weekend we focus and do what we know we can do and finish in the top four teams. We’ve really progressed as a team this year. I hope we stay where we are projected to qualify and do everything we can to make it to the state tournament.

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