Team Australia Gears Up for the 22nd Asian Junior Tenpin Bowling Championship in Singapore
By Matt Stevens
Team Australia is embarking on an exciting journey to Singapore for the much anticipated 22nd Asian Junior Tenpin Bowling Championship, scheduled to take place from August 19th to 25th, 2023.
Organized by the Singapore Tenpin Bowling Association, the major event will unite 13 federations from the Asian/Oceania region, culminating in a showcase of youthful bowling talent on an international stage.
As the clock ticks closer to the opening day, the Australian Junior Bowling Team, comprising of 16 skilled athletes (8 females and 8 males), is diligently preparing to make its mark.
Departing ahead of the competition, the team will engage in a comprehensive pre-event training regimen. Upon arrival in Singapore, the squad will kickstart their preparations at the renowned Singapore Sports School. Additionally, they will take in the sights and sounds of the vibrant city, fostering team camaraderie with an anticipated visit to Universal Studios.
The participating teams set to compete in this prestigious event include:
- Australia
- Hong Kong, China
- Japan
- Kuwait
- Malaysia
- New Zealand
- Philippines
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
- Singapore
- Chinese Taipei
- Thailand
- Vietnam
At the helm of the Australian Junior Bowling Team stands new head coach Robert Alexander, a seasoned mentor with a history of guiding national teams across various age divisions.
Coach Alexander, based in South Australia, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his role, having previously led teams in youth and open categories. Notably, he was at the helm of the Australian Open team during the 2022 IBF World Cup on the Sunshine Coast.
In an exclusive interview with Coach Alexander before departure, we gained insights into the team’s dynamic and their preparations for the championship.
Reflecting on his coaching philosophy, Coach Alexander emphasised the importance of fostering open communication and a collaborative learning environment. “I just want the bowlers to do the best they can and for them to be willing to take advice,” shared Alexander. “It is always a two-way street.”
This coaching approach resonates strongly with his team, which includes assistant coaches Hayden George and Cameron Walsh. Together, they emphasise the significance of shared responsibility and mutual growth within the squad.
As the competition draws near, Coach Alexander underscores the unique qualities of his junior team, highlighting their passion for the sport and their eagerness to improve their skills. This collective drive positions them well for the challenges that lie ahead.
While individual talents shine, Coach Alexander emphasises the importance of team unity. “This group of Juniors are very even, so anyone could potentially make a significant impact,” he notes. Special attention is directed towards standout athlete Blake Walsh, whose prior successes with a silver medal at the recent Asian Youth Championship boding well for a promising performance.
Balancing technical prowess with a cohesive team dynamic is a top priority for Coach Alexander. Adapting to varying conditions is crucial, and he underscores the need for players who can adjust effectively. “We will be looking for team players who support each other,” Coach Alexander states, reflecting his emphasis on collaboration and collective achievement.
Addressing the team’s upcoming challenge, Coach Alexander encourages the athletes to focus on their personal bests and embrace the experience of representing their country on a global stage. “This will be a great experience for everyone, and don’t waste the opportunity to represent your country to the best of your ability,” he asserts.
With the unpredictability of the competition acknowledged, Coach Alexander understands the best way to navigate challenges to do with expectation is to meet it with encouragement.
“Don’t worry about other bowlers, as you cannot control what they are doing but you can control what you are doing. As a coaching group, we will continue to encourage the whole team and remind them why they were selected” added Alexander.
With determination in their hearts and the weight of the green and gold colours on their shoulders, the Australian Junior Bowling Team is set to demonstrate their skills and passion at the 22nd Asian Junior Tenpin Bowling Championship in Singapore.
As they embark on this thrilling journey, Tenpin Bowling Australia extends its best wishes to the team and encourages supporters to follow their progress through the Team Australia Hub, where the latest updates and vital links will be available throughout the championship.
