ROCKINGHAM — The lanes at Striker’s Bowling Center popped with falling pins on Wednesday, as Richmond Senior High School held its first day of official practice.
Looking to build off a successful season last winter, the Raiders and Lady Raiders saw several returning bowlers participate. Fifteen student-athletes were in attendance, along with some newcomers.
Ralph Butler will enter his fifth season as the head coach, and many of the starters from last season’s girls’ team return after winning a Sandhills Athletic Conference title and finishing as the state runner-up.
The boys’ team also saw several familiar faces as the Raiders look to remain competitive in the top half of the conference standings.
During Wednesday’s practice, bowlers competed against one another in individual matches. Butler will use a series of scores to determine lineups heading into the season.
The Raiders and Lady Raiders are set to begin their new campaign on Dec. 1 against Southern Lee and Pinecrest high schools. Matches will be held in Aberdeen.
The Richmond Observer will publish a season preview in the coming weeks.
Below are photos from Wednesday’s practice, taken by sports editor Kyle Pillar.
