photo by: Carson Shea/Special to the Journal-World

The Lawrence High bowling team practices at Royal Crest Lanes on Friday, Jan. 31, 2025.

Bowling is commonly a casual pastime.

But during his 16 years as Lawrence High School bowling coach, Larry Burton has seen bowling change lives.

“I enjoy seeing the kids that may not fit in at school, being able to do something that keeps them in school,” Burton said. “There’s been several people in the past 16 years that may not have completed school without bowling.”

Growing up, Burton said his mother introduced him to the sport when he was a child.

“She was an advocate, and if it wasn’t for her I wouldn’t be doing this,” Burton said. “This is kind of a family tradition.”

Now, as the co-owner of Royal Crest Lanes, he’s seen how bowling can create a sense of belonging.

Thirteen boys and 13 girls compete for Lawrence High School’s bowling team at varsity and junior varsity levels. The team has a meet or practice five times a week, meaning its members are just as committed to their sport as any other high school athletes. But Burton proudly coaches a sport that is inclusive: He coaches a team that features various skill levels, making it stand out from other sports.

“You don’t have to be that athlete to do it,” Burton said. “You don’t have to be tall, you don’t have to be fast, you don’t have to be physical. I have one girl on the team who averages 75. Then there’s a guy that’s averaging 220.”

Returning this year is sophomore Graesyn Hoss, who placed fourth at 6A state last year. This season, he is averaging 228, making him the best bowler on the team and one of the best in Kansas.

Regardless of his success, he sees a bigger purpose with his bowling.

“A lot of people look up to me,” Hoss said. “I try to help everyone out as much as I can. That makes me feel like I’m doing my job right.”

To Burton, the sport means more than just practices and meets. He likes helping students enjoy their lives at school and helping his athletes find themselves.

Adelaide Chaney began bowling competitively last year as a freshman. She is averaging 146 this season and has liked meeting friends from the team.

“Bowling keeps me actively doing something,” Chaney said. “I love meeting new people, so bowling was the perfect opportunity to do so.”

The season began with tryouts after Thanksgiving, and ends in March with the state tournament. Up next for the Chesty Lions is 6A regional competition at Gage Center Bowl in Topeka next Wednesday.

Burton understands that some people may not appreciate the sport of bowling, but sometimes there can be a greater purpose in throwing a heavy ball down a lane.

“I would ask them to come out and bowl every day for an hour and a half and see how they feel five days straight,” Burton said. “Most people go bowling once a year. These kids do it every single day. There’s a true art to it.”