Lion bowlers hoping to compete for league title Despite the loss of four starters to graduation, the Middletown North boys bowling team heads into the season with high hopes. A year ago, the Lions compiled a 28-14 record to finish fourth in the Shore Conference’s Northern Monmouth Division. This time around, the division has been split into “A” and “B” groups, and Middletown North will compete in the B group. As a result, the team will bowl at Memory Lanes in Red Bank after playing its matches at Harmony Lanes in Middletown for several years. Coach Kathleen Orsetti said that senior Dan Velez gives the Lions a solid presence at the top of the lineup. Velez enters his fourth varsity season after averaging 185 pins a year ago, with a high game of 279. “Danny is our key guy and I know he’s ready to have a real strong season,” she added. Cory Widmaier, who averaged 180 pins and rolled several 200-plus games, holds down the second slot. Orsetti said the sophomore has been outstanding in early practice sessions and should improve his average substantially. Another sophomore, Jesse Stanton, returns as well. Although a bit inconsistent as a freshman, he has four 200 games. Orsetti is also expecting solid contributions from both juniors John Humphrey and Steve Kaylor. Both have been in the high 160s/low 170s in practice sessions. In addition, two sophomores Jeff Onarato and newcomer Dominic Nicolato have shown promise, Orsetti said. “It should be an interesting season,” the coach said. “We have a lot of new bowlers, but I have great hopes for them. They all work hard and when they hit their stride, I think we’re going to do very well.” — Warren Rappleyea