By Staten Island Advance Sports Desk | silive.com
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One could hear the echo of strikes, spares and cheers throughout Rab’s during a New Year’s Eve tradition at the Dongan Hills center which has become known as the Battle of the Schools Alumni Tournament, a true celebration of camaraderie of Staten Island’s bowling community.
The Alumni Division of Sunday’s 6th annual edition showcased the talents of 100 bowlers from 23 schools from all over the five boroughs, each vying for supremacy. After a 10-game baker format qualifying round, the top four teams emerged for a showdown.
When all was said and done, McKee/S.I. Tech 2, consisting of Joe LaBargo, Sr., Nick Antonucci, Joe Bruno and Pat Rizzo, emerged victorious.
Curtis, the top seed, faced off against Tottenville 3, while Tottenville 1 bowled McKee/S.I. Tech 2. Curtis, the 2022 champion, with its impressive performance led with a 2,370, 10-game series, set the stage for the finale.
Curtis’ set included a bid for perfection which left spectators on the edge of their seats, as everyone stopped to gawk, as anchor Jason Gomez missed the perfect game leaving a 4-pin on the 11th shot. Curtis fell short of the tournament high game of 290, accomplished by Tottenville 1, finishing the game at 289.
In the finals, the teams battled it out over two games, with the total wood determining the champions. McKee/S.I. Tech 2 emerged victorious over Curtis, kicking off with a 32-pin lead after game one, with two impressive games, 235 and 269 besting their opponent by 67 pins, securing their status as the 2023 Alumni Division champions.
Tournament director Michael Ruffe, exclaimed, “It’s incredible to witness the passion and skill on display each year. The New Year’s Eve Battle of the Schools not only raises funds for our local programs but also fosters a sense of community and friendly competition that is truly special.”
The winning team earned $1,250 which will go to the Seagulls’ bowling program. The runners-up made $500.
Round 1
Curtis 1 defeated Tottenville 3 420 to 350
McKee / S.I. Tech 2 defeated Tottenville 1 471 to 458
Finals
McKee / S.I. Tech 2 defeated Curtis 1 504 to 437
Champions: McKee / S.I. Tech 2 (Joe LaBargo, Sr., Nick Antonucci, Joe Bruno and Pat Rizzo – $1,250)
Runner-Ups: Curtis 1 (Dennis Sciré, Jeff Martin, Jay Gomez, Miguel Pagan and Dave Kosinski – $500)
3rd & 4th Place – Tottenville 1 and 3 – $300
High School Division
16 Teams, representing 13 schools, 10 Island schools, and three off Island teams.
Champion: East Islip – 2,370 – $1,000 Team Scholarship
Runner up: Arlington High School – 2,153 – $500 Team Scholarship
Full Event Results available: https://bowlatrabs.com/bowling/tournaments/