East Islip High School’s girls varsity bowling team delivered a truly unforgettable season this year. Under rookie head coach Genesis Dawson, the program continued its tradition of excellence, proving that talent, heart and teamwork can elevate a team to new heights.

Stepping into the role, Dawson knew she had a special group. With back-to-back county championships already behind them, the team entered the season determined to finish what they started. The focus was clear: Strengthen teamwork while continuing to push individual performance. That approach paid off.

The team captured their league title, supported by outstanding individual performances across the board. Brooke Andresen led Suffolk County with a remarkable 222 average and a high game of 289, earning a spot on the state team. Meeya Leaderman also secured a place on the state team with a 206 average and a high game of 257. Makayla Boyd earned All-County honors with a 193 average, a high game of 268, and a perfect 36-for-36 in match play. Additional honors went to Rosie Crowe (All-League, 162 average, 217 high game), Peyton Scholl (All-County, 178 average, 234 high game) and Maureen Schweizer (All-League, 176 average, 267 high game).

At the season’s largest tournament, the team continued to shine. Brooke Andresen and Boyd placed second in A Doubles, while Andresen also took second in A Singles. Schweizer captured first place in B Singles, Katie Coughlin and Cori Schweizer earned first in D Doubles, and Casey Ehatt and Sage Lyons placed second in D Doubles.

With a dominant regular season behind them, the team entered the Suffolk County Championship on Feb. 7, adding another chapter to an already remarkable run. East Islip claimed its third consecutive county title in commanding fashion. The team rolled over 1,000 pins in five of six games, showcasing the consistency, depth and focus that define the program. From start to finish, they led the field, fueled by an electric atmosphere from both teammates and supporters.

This continued success reflects a powerful legacy. The program was long guided by the late coach Harold Cooley Jr., whose influence helped establish East Islip as a perennial contender. His impact still resonates today in the program’s culture of dedication and player development. After his passing, Rob Sconone carried that legacy forward, maintaining the standard of excellence. Now, in a new chapter, Dawson has built upon that foundation, earning recognition as Newsday’s Coach of the Year in her debut season.

Dawson is quick to credit those around her, emphasizing that this success would not have been possible without the support of fellow coaches Mike D’Ambrosio and Judy Fischer, whose depth of coaching experience, bowling knowledge and steady guidance played a critical role throughout the season. D’Ambrosio joined the girls team during the postseason, bringing additional leadership and perspective as East Islip made its final push toward a state title, marking a meaningful run as East Islip Lanes prepares to close its doors.

“This program has always been about more than just talent,” Dawson said. “It’s about commitment, resilience and supporting one another. Our girls understand that success comes from working hard and working together.”

With the county title secured, the team set its sights on the state championship in Syracuse, held March 13–15. Facing a challenging oil pattern, teams from across the state struggled to find their line in the oil. East Islip stayed within striking distance early, trailing by a narrow margin. Then everything clicked, and by the end of Game 4, the team found its rhythm. Boyd ignited the momentum with eight consecutive strikes, energizing both her teammates and the crowd. The team went on to knock down an incredible 5,637 pins over six games. They were the only team to surpass 1,000 pins in a single game that day, turning a 90-pin deficit into a 136-pin victory. Andresen and Boyd both finished among the top 10 bowlers of the tournament. In individual competition, Andresen placed second in New York State for the individual competition, while Leaderman earned sixth in Division I.

The win marked East Islip’s first state championship since 2014, when the program was led by Cooley, making the moment even more meaningful not just for East Islip, but for Andresen, Boyd and Crowe, who were also members of the final team he coached.

“Like diamonds formed under pressure, this team rose to the occasion,” Dawson said. “Each athlete proved strong, unique, and essential. Together, they didn’t just meet expectations, they exceeded them.”