Daryus Alo’s path to collegiate bowling started with 50-cent games at Sam’s Town, a local bowling alley near his house in Las Vegas. Every Friday morning, he would practice from open until 3 p.m.
“I loved the feeling and the atmosphere of the bowling alley and fell into the rabbit hole of chasing greatness,” Alo said.
That pursuit eventually led Alo to Newman University, where he is now in his second season as a member of the Jets bowling team.
Alo visited two larger schools but eventually decided on Newman for its close-knit community.
“Everyone was family,” Alo said. “That was enough for me to come to Newman.”
Alo entered his first season simply hoping to earn a spot on the varsity team. However, as the season progressed, his expectations changed. By the end of the year, he was no longer just trying to make varsity. He wanted to win every tournament the team entered.
Alo went on to earn NCBCA All-Rookie Team honors and Honorable Mention All-American recognition.
Those accomplishments were meaningful for Alo after spending years developing his game.
“I’ve been bowling since I was 6 years old, so finally being able to see some progress and success meant that it wasn’t for nothing,” Alo said.
Alo also gained valuable postseason experience during his freshman year, qualifying for ISC Nationals after a strong sectional performance. The experience gave him confidence that he could compete at higher levels while also giving him another opportunity to learn and improve.
Alo has carried that experience into his sophomore season, helping the Jets to several strong performances.
At SWIBC I in Texas, Newman’s varsity team finished second, while the junior varsity teams placed first and second. Alo was named to the all-tournament team with a 210.3 average.
The Jets followed that performance with an even stronger showing at SWIBC II. Newman’s varsity team won that tournament, while the junior varsity teams again finished first and second.
Alo said that the success has strengthened the team’s energy. After losing two seniors from last season, he said the team has embraced its new members and developed a strong sense of camaraderie.
“My experience has been great so far this year, meeting the new incomers and getting to know them,” Alo said. “It’s always exciting to travel with people you are close with and all wanting to win.”
After a successful freshman campaign, Alo hopes to win nationals both as a team and individually and continue to grow as a bowler.
“I’m hoping I can outdo my last season by a landslide,” Alo said.
PHOTO: Courtesy, Newman Athletics
