DaytonDailyNews.com

LANCASTER — Nerves weren't a problem — the Stebbins Indians were having fun.

The Indians won the boys state bowling tournament at Tiki Lanes here on Friday, Feb. 29.

"All the nerves were spent just getting to state," Stebbins coach Don Brown said. "Our guys knew we could do this. They just knew."

The Indians sat atop the standings after the three-game qualifier. They were tested early in Baker play by Westerville Central, winning 3-2. Stebbins then shut out Fairmont 3-0.

Greater Western Ohio Conference power Centerville took the second game and pulled to within nine pins in the fourth game but the Indians prevailed 3-1 to capture the title.

"Little old Stebbins ... it was our year," Brown said.

Winning the competitive Southwest District championship one week earlier provided a confidence boost for the Indians and boosted their respect level statewide.

"I think the other teams had a lot of respect for us coming into state," Brown said. "They knew this team was going to be very formidable."

The Indians lose seniors Jesse Beal and Chris Lutz but return "super sophomores" Chase Carter, Chase Kolozsi and Johnathon Miller.

The Elks finished second while Coldwater and Fairmont rounded out the top four.

• Urbana senior Brice Ream rolled a 763 series (258-247-257) to win the individual state title.

"It's amazing," Ream said. "It's something you don't do every day."

Ream beat second-place finisher Jay Foote of Westerville Central (715) by 48 pins.

• The girls state bowling tourney is today, March 1, also at Tiki Lanes.