Unfinished Business: Livonia Churchill Girls Bowling Dominates the Lanes

Last season, after a grueling 30-minute mechanical delay in the middle of their final game at States, the Chargers missed the playoff cut by the slimmest of margins. That moment of "what if" has transformed into a 2025-26 "watch us" campaign. With a roster blending veteran collegiate-bound talent and rising underclassmen, Churchill isn't just competing—they are the team to beat.

A Season of Gold

The Chargers kicked off the season with an exclamation point, winning the 7th Annual John Glenn Rocket Baker Blast-Off and following it up with a prestigious victory at the PCS Wayne County Bowling Tournament.

Even when they aren't taking home the top trophy, they are setting the pace. The team secured second-place finishes at the North Farmington Early Bird, the Livonia Invitational, and the Bowl for Burns Tournament—notably leading the field in first place through the qualifying rounds in the latter two.

History in the Making

While the team success is undeniable, individual records are falling in their wake. Senior Sophia Best (William Penn University) recently etched her name into the history books. On December 2nd against Novi, Best rolled a staggering two-game series score of 547.

Not only did this shatter the Livonia Public Schools District record, but it also placed her fifth all-time in the history of Michigan Girls High School Bowling. Congratulations to Sophia Best on this extraordinary achievement!

Doubling Down on Excellence

The team’s depth was on full display at the recent Clarenceville Doubles Tournament. In a powerhouse performance, the duo of Madison Martin (Michigan State University) and Sophia Best (William Penn University) "bulldozed" their way through the bracket. After firing games of 299 and 255 in the semi-finals, they defeated 2025 state qualifiers from Belleville by 8 pins to become back-to-back champions of the event.

Leadership and Legacy

The Chargers' success is anchored by a core group of seniors who have emerged as outstanding leaders, elevating their performance both on and off the lanes. Carissa Alemany (Schoolcraft College), Madison Martin (Michigan State University), and Sophia Best (William Penn University) will be greatly missed after this season as they move on to bowl at the collegiate level.

L to R: Coach Wagner, Madison Martin, Sophia Best, Isabelle Jordan, Coach Proudlock and Aubrey Swickler

The Road Ahead

Head Coach Adam Wagner knows he has a special group, but he isn't letting them rest on their laurels. "We approach every match and tournament as if we’re up against last year’s State Champions," says Wagner. "We are fully aware that we are the team to beat and must prove ourselves daily."

The team's balance is its greatest strength. While the seniors provide leadership and intensity, the future looks bright with the emergence of sophomore standout Isabelle Jordan, the offseason improvements of Aubrey Swickler, and the calm, steady presence of freshman Maddie DerVartanian.

Meet the Varsity Chargers

Head Coach: Adam Wagner | Assistant Coach: Jason Proudlock