By Joanna Chadwick
When it comes to senior bowler Cash Carnes, Derby coach Ryker Percival knows exactly what to expect.
“Cash is the exact type of kid you want on your team,” Percival said. “Whatever role you need him to fill, he’s going to do it and do it well. As a freshman on varsity, his role was to make spares and be as consistent as he could be.
“Over the last two years, his role was to put up high scores and bring energy. This year, he’s expected to be a leader, and I have no doubt he’ll fill that role and lead us back to state.”
Derby is the two-time defending Class 6A boys champ.
“It was incredible when we broke our state record last year, and even sweeter when we won state again, cementing ourselves as the best bowling team in Derby history and possibly in Kansas history,” Carnes said. “But our journey isn’t over; the legacy isn’t finished, and we still have more to achieve.”
The goal is to win it again, but it won’t be easy.
“Michael Stanger and I are the only two returning varsity members from the two-time state championship team,” Carnes said. “We know people are saying that, since we lost four of the six players from last year’s team, we don’t stand a chance. But this year, we’re ready to prove them all wrong and show that our team’s legacy isn’t over.”
Returning Stanger and Carnes is a good start, though.
Carnes started bowling in eighth grade in an adult-youth league with his dad. They bowled every Wednesday, creating memories and a passion for the sport.
“Cash is as competitive as they come,” Percival said. “He puts in the work year-round — bowling nearly every day and training with a private coach throughout the offseason. His work ethic and consistency truly set him apart and have been major factors in the success he’s achieved.”
