Bowlers competing in the Ontario Winter Games hold nothing back.
Their disappointment when they don’t get the strike or spare is evident.
They’re hard on themselves.
But they don’t hesitate to high-five their opponents after each frame.
“You don’t want to see them do too bad. You want to see them do well and have fun, like you want to,” said Aaron Glover.
The 13-year-old from Brampton, playing with his Central Ontario five-pin team Friday at Orillia Bowl, was serving up high-fives to his opponents from Ottawa Valley like they were going out of style.
“It’s not only about the sport,” he said. “It’s also about the friendships you build.”
Glover has had many opportunities to create new friendships. He has been bowling since he was three years old and has competed at the provincial level every year since he was five, but this is his first time participating in the Ontario Winter Games.
“It’s kind of surreal,” he said. “It’s a moment I’ve been waiting for. It’s such a big event. I’m just glad to be here.”
The athletes aren’t the only ones feeling the pressure of competition. Glover’s mom, Ann Marie, is always nearby, nervously watching each throw.
“It’s an amazing opportunity because he’s so young,” she said, noting her son is competing against bowlers a few years older than he is. “I was nervous, yet the kids are so good to him. They don’t treat him any differently because of his age.”
His team dropped Friday’s match, but there’s still a chance to strike gold. Bowling will continue Saturday.
