Most athletes have a pregame ritual that includes a special food or mix of music. But senior Jon Clemons rallies the Baldwin bowling team with a game of cards to start off every match.
“Jon brings the set of cards to every game,” senior and teammate Chase Mussomeli said, adding that it helps the team come together before matches and mentally focus.
Clemons began this unusual habit because his teammates wanted something to do before matches. One day he saw a pack of cards for sale and got the idea of pre-match card games.
“We wanted something to do before games and one day I saw a pack of cards for sale and bought them, and we’ve played cards before each match ever since,” Clemons said.
With the pre-match card games, Clemons is able to enhance his focus while also having a calm and laid back moment with his team before they compete.
That’s just one example of how bowling can improve the athletes’ lives outside of the lanes, Clemons said.
“Everything matters in bowling. Every pin counts when you are competing, even the little things. Taking the little things into consideration sometimes can make a big difference,” Clemons said.
Clemons has been bowling for most of his life, both for hobby and for the school team.
“I took interest at 4 or 5, when my parents and I used to go. I have been doing it competitively for 10 years, including all four years of high school,” Clemons said.
Through his constant work and determination, Clemons has become a key member of the team.
“Jon is definitely a leader,” Mussomeli said. “He does a lot for the team and puts us on his shoulder sometimes. He is a great part of the team.”
Fellow senior and teammate Kelson Kleinhampl also sees the focus that Clemons brings to the lanes.
“He gets extremely dialed in and never folds,” Kleinhampl said. “He puts in his earbuds and zones outs, and focuses on what he needs to get done without getting distracted.”
Clemons’ leadership has helped guide the bowling team into winning their section, but he gives most of the credit to his teammates.
“I don’t think the Baldwin bowling team would be where it is without the rest of the bowlers. I think everyone on the team played a part in having a good season,” he said.
Not only has Clemons helped lead the team to winning their section, but his hard work has earned him the spot as one of the top bowlers in the Section. Kleinhampl has noticed the work he put in to get there.
“He loves to bowl,” Kleinhampl said. “He has been doing it his whole life and practices three to four times a week. He is also super consistent, and has a great work ethic.”
Clemons, senior Brady Malloy, and junior Rose Becker will also be competing in individual regionals on Friday.
