Story by Ryan Jones of the SPF TAP
The Scotch Plains–Fanwood bowling team won its third Union County title on Thursday, Jan. 22, and one of the big reasons was the performance of junior Braden Steer.
“I can’t say enough about Braden. He helped lead the team to their third Union County title today,” said Scotch Plains-Fanwood bowling coach Joanne Guarnuccio. “As the anchor bowler, he came up clutch in four games to win it for us in the 10th frame.”
“He is so calm under pressure; his teammates were calling him ‘IceMan’ today,” she added. “Braden is also a great leader and mentor to our younger bowlers. I watch him at practice teaching and encouraging them. ”
Steer played a central role in two dominant 7–0 team victories last week. In Tuesday’s win over Roselle, he led the Raiders with a 579 series, setting the tone from the opening frame. He followed that performance on Thursday with an even stronger showing against Union Catholic, rolling a 584 series that included two games over 200 pins, helping SPF secure another sweep.
Consistent and reliable at the top of the lineup, Steer has been one of the Raiders’ most dependable bowlers throughout the season. His performances last week were a continuation of a strong career that includes numerous 200-plus games and a steady scoring presence that has anchored the Raiders bowling program.
With his combination of consistency, leadership, and timely high scores, Steer has been instrumental in the Raiders’ success and earned recognition as this week’s Joint Motion Physical Therapy Athlete of the Week.