Schaumburg a favorite but the MSL is tough

Sure, there may be a clear cut favorite.

But according to many observers, this year's Mid-Suburban League bowling race still may be one of the most wide open in years.

Schaumburg, which finished second in state last season, rolls into 2008 with what coach Mark Kelly refers to as his "deepest team ever."

But the other 11 MSL squads are not conceding anything just yet.

"Obviously Schaumburg and Prospect will be the teams to beat," says Palatine coach John Burke, "but I believe by the time the sectionals roll around we could be as good as anybody."

Palatine lost stellar bowler Amy Modic (Harper College), who rolled the conference high series last year (769) to graduation, but returns seniors Amanda Heath and Ashley Delio.

The Saxons will return last year's individual state champion, senior Marilyn Gawlik, but will have to fill the shoes of grads Samantha Kelly (214 average in 2007) and Haily Schneider (199).

Speaking of losses to graduation, Hoffman Estates may be the team that feels the deepest cut. The Hawks said goodbye to two outstanding bowlers in twins Natalie and Amanda Cortese.

The Cortese sisters dominated MSL bowling the last four seasons. Among other milestones, Natalie boasted the top league average in 3 of her 4 years while Amanda took the crown the other year.

"Having those two girls on your team," said Rolling Meadows coach Karen Ellingsworth, "was basically like having an extra bowler."

"We still hope to be competitive and finish in the top three in conference," added Hoffman coach Dan Pfligler, "and win or finish second at sectionals and qualify for state."

Lisa Papeck and Mandy Hoglund will be the top returnees for the Hawks.

Hannah Wrenn (188 average in 2007) returns to lead Prospect, which finished third in the MSL conference standings last year behing Schaumburg and Hoffman.

Brianna Caroo and Brittney Mari have started strong already this season for Conant, while Fremd returns Ashley Landowski.

"We've got several bowlers," said Vikings coach Deb Peitrucha, "and we'll continue to grow as a team and develop our skills."

Deanna Guyton and Molly Jackson will lead Buffalo Grove, Elk Grove's Carline Williams already has a 195 average through 2 MSL matches, and Hersey's Carina Balan has started strong as well.

And let's not forget the new kid on the block. Barrington has joined the fray this year to make the MSL a complete 12-team league.

But 11 of them may be chasing the Saxons.

"We feel if some of our girls elevate their game," said Kelly, "and become more comfortable bowling at the varsity level, we can have an outstanding year."

"In the MSL," added Palatine's Burke, "you never know. There are always a lot of surprises. The MSL is probably the toughest conference in the state."