Alyssa Pizzano – Girls’ bowling team – NHS senior
What attracted you to bowling?
I always enjoyed going bowling with my friends and family. When I was in elementary school, I participated in a recreational bowling league as well. As I entered high school, I tried out for the team and made varsity my freshman year.
Talk about your best memory of the sport.
I had many memorable bowling moments throughout my high school career, such as winning counties two years in a row. However my best memory was very recent. My team won second place in Essex County and for the first time, I advanced to participate in the individuals county tournament where I won second place. It was an amazing experience to be able to compete against so many talented players and I was glad to have had the opportunity my senior year.
Do you play other sports. School activities?
I played volleyball my freshman and sophomore year and I also play softball. I also was involved in Key Club and I am a member of National Honor Society and Student Council.
How does the team get psyched up for a match?
My coaches, Mr. Ackerman and Mr. Bruno, continually encourage us to do our best, use our skills, and to have fun. They encourage us to have confidence in ourselves as they have in us. My teammates and I will often have pep talks before the match to motivate us.
Who are your role models?
My parents are my role models because they encourage and support me in everything I do. They taught me to never give up when faced with obstacles and to chase after my dreams. They have worked hard their entire lives and have instilled the same determination in my sister and me.
If you and three friends won a free vacation to anywhere, where would you go. How come?
I would want to go to Hawaii with my friends so we can explore different islands and go on adventures. My friends and I are always searching for new things to do and I feel that in Hawaii we would have a great time.
Can you tell us something about yourself that other people might be surprised to learn?
I am a neat freak and need everything organized. I hate disorganization and when things are not put back where they belong.
You’ll be graduating this spring. What are your post-high school plans?
After I graduate, I will be attending Parisian Beauty Academy for aesthetics in July. I will then continue my education to become a medical aesthetician and maybe open my own business.
“Alyssa finished with a 149 average, second high in the league. The girls’ team finished second in the league, second in the county, and eighth in the North Jersey sectionals. They could not have achieved this success without Alyssa’s strong contributions. She is our anchor bowler and usually comes through in the 10th frame when needed. During the Essex County Tournament she, along with teammate Julia Bollano, bowled very well and qualified for the Individual Tournament. Alyssa rolled well enough in the qualifiers to bowl in the step ladder semi-finals. She climbed the stepladder and ended up competing in the finals. Unfortunately she ran out of gas and finished second in the County. Quite an accomplishment and a great way to finish her high school career. I am so proud of Alyssa, not only for her bowling skills, but for her leadership qualities. She is a four-year letterwoman, three-year first team All-League, and an excellent roll model for our younger bowlers. She really is the anchor of our team.”
– NHS head coach George Ackerman
About the Author
