Ever since he first picked up a bowling ball at 4 years old, Chase Leckner has been chasing the perfect roll. For most kids it’s baseball, football, or basketball, but for Chase it’s just him and his 15 pound ball.

It was Christmas Eve 2011 when Leckner picked up bowling for the first time, and he instantly fell in love with it.

“I like bowling so much because my Grandpop and my Dad were both heavy bowlers,” Leckner said. “I would like to carry on the family legacy of bowling, plus I genuinely enjoy throwing a ball down the lane and slamming it into the pins.”

Bowling is harder than a lot of people give it credit for, whether it’s accuracy, choosing the right weight, or figuring out the oil patterns, for most it is always a struggle. Because of this, Leckner knew it wasn’t going to be easy, but he was up for the challenge.

“I’d say lot’s of practice, good coaching, and dedication for sure,” said Leckner on what has helped him become so good over time.

Along the way, Chase had some expected struggles. He touched on what has been the hardest part for him.

“The hardest part for me is consistency with my accuracy,” Leckner said. “It takes a lot of time and practice to be consistently accurate and to consistently strike.”

So far in high school, Leckner has climbed the state ranks each year, finishing 11th his freshman year, 10th as a sophomore, and last year 8th as a junior.

“In the last 3 years, I’ve come so close to winning it all, which is why I think this year is the year. I’ve put so much time and effort into practicing to get better,” Leckner said.

Last year, Leckner put up some ridiculous numbers, averaging 224 points, and even rolled a perfect 300 multiple times. Heading into this year’s season, Leckner already has his average up to 245 points and is itching to get back to the alley and compete.

With the consistent growth in his game and his senior season quickly approaching Leckner is very confident heading into his final year.

“I feel this is the year I take the state title. Honestly, I feel there are about three other bowlers that can compete with me in the entire state,” said Leckner.

Bowling has been such a huge part of Chase’s life, he touched on how it has impacted him.

“I’ve made so many new friends over these past few years, and I’ve grown close with some of them,” Leckner concluded. “It’s awesome going to a tournament and becoming friends with someone so easily that you have never even met.”