Two of Newman University’s incoming men’s bowlers for fall 2022 recently received national awards given by the United States Bowling Congress (USBC).
Nathan Galicia earns USBC bowling scholarship
A current senior at Clear Brook High School in Friendswood, Texas, Nathan Galicia received one of only two Youth Ambassador of the Year Scholarships from the USBC for his exemplary contributions in the sport outside of league or tournament play, academic accomplishments and community involvement.
In addition to competing on his high school bowling team, Galicia is president of the Texas State USBC and a youth director for the Greater Houston USBC, a role that means he helps run every youth tournament in Houston and some bigger state tournaments. He also sits on both organizations’ board of directors.
“I help give a youth’s perspective on different events that happen in the bowling world and help to bring more kids to the sport of bowling,” he said.
Galicia got into bowling because of his older brother, who got into the sport when his health prevented him from doing outdoor activities. His brother was diagnosed with eosinophilic enterocolitis, a stomach disease, at age 5.
“He was told that he wouldn’t be able to do any more outdoor activities because of how sensitive his immune system was,” Galicia explained. “When my brother was 7, they took him bowling for his birthday, and the rest is history. When I was born, I practically lived in the bowling alley, and I started bowling the second I was able to hold the ball.”
Galicia chose to continue his bowling career at Newman because he wanted to attend a university with a strong Catholic presence and one that offered a degree in chemistry forensic science.
“I hope to join a few organizations around the campus so I can give back to a community that has already done so much for me,” he said. “I also hope to join the Troubadours and continue singing while also trying to sing at the church on campus or in one around town.”
Galicia’s ultimate goal when he joins the Newman bowling squad is to make it to the Intercollegiate Singles Championships.
“I also hope to become a leader on the team that many can rely on when they come to Newman,” he said.
Zachary Smullen earns Earl Anthony Memorial Scholarship for bowling
Zachary Smullen is currently a senior at Wakeland High School in Frisco, Texas, and was awarded one of only five prestigious Earl Anthony Memorial Scholarships, named in honor of legendary pro bowler Earl Anthony.
Smullen said he got into bowling when he was only 2.
“Bowling is my biggest passion,” he said, adding that he’s competitive and enjoys playing other sports too.
Smullen has been involved with his high school bowling team all four years and has also run cross country. He committed to attending Newman to study business and be part of its bowling squad because he believes it will best prepare him for his future.
“I think they have an excellent bowling program that I am very excited to be a part of as I further my education,” Smullen said. “I’m not fully clear yet on what the college bowling experience will be like, but I would like to win at least one national title in my time at the university. I can’t wait to start.”
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