Bethel’s Women’s Bowling Program Signs South Carolina Standout
SUMTER, S.C. - Thomas Sumter Academy 's Ava Teeters has signed with the Bethel University Women's Bowling program.
Portions of article provided by Tim Leible- Sumter Item & Bethel SID Office
Photo provided by Sumter Item
When Teeters began the journey to find a collegiate bowling program, she had a message for coaches. That message was of development, stating that she has been a team captain since joining the team and worked hard to improve each season.
"This past school season, I placed six overall and made the All-State team. This was just the first step of my goal," she wrote to programs before the start of her senior year. "Going from my freshman and sophomore (years) not playing Top 10 to my junior year placing Top 6 showed me that I can do it and that my bowling career doesn't have to end after graduation.
"Not only did the thought of winning a state ring motivate me to work harder and harder every day, but the story of my mom's uncle that is always told to me. Him not being able to walk without crutches never stopped him from bowling. He's my main reason why I push myself while bowling. He taught me not to let anything get in my way."
When she finally signed on Wednesday, it was proof that the hard work paid off.
"Signing to continue my bowling career in college meant that all of the hours and effort I put into the sport over my high school years paid off," she said.
After reaching out to schools, she scheduled trips to several schools. When she got to Bethel, she was reminded of the comfort of attending a small school like Thomas Sumter.
"I noticed that it was a smaller college than Clemson or USC. Coming from a private school with smaller classes, I figured I would be more comfortable," Teeters said. "When I went to practice with the team after the tour, even though I was nervous, they made me feel welcomed. One thing I will always remember during the practice is when one of the girls asked me if I liked Dr. Pepper and Slim Jims. When I responded with yes, she said I would fit in perfectly with the team. I liked seeing how close everyone was on that team, and that's something I've always loved about a team."
Teeters can't wait to start a new adventure.
Something I'm looking forward to experiencing at the college level is the traveling for the tournaments and matches," she said. "And improving more."
Bethel Coach Clay Boyd said, "We are honored and thrilled that Ava has chosen to continue her education and bowling career at Bethel. Ava will contribute to Bethel University both on and off the lanes. She brings a strong academic background along with a deep desire and commitment to compete. Ava embodies what a student athlete should be."