For Justin Zelger, bowling has always been a part of his life.

“My family has owned Lion Bowl in Red Lion since 1980, so I was born into it, so to speak,” Zelger said.

Zelger’s father also bowled professionally, which encouraged him to stay involved in the sport. 

Coaching has changed him and helped him grow. 

“It has helped me be more reflective of my own actions and priorities,” Zelger said.

Working with young athletes and their families presents several challenges. He said it can be difficult when misunderstandings happen. 

“It can test your patience, but I’ve learned to handle it through clear expectations, constant communication, and focusing on what I can control,” Zelger said.

 His team has had success, including back-to-back league titles and even placing at nationals. But winning is not what matters most to him.

“The thing I am most proud of is always the personal growth I see in athletes,” Zelger said. 

Zelger has coached bowling for seven years and coached altogether for 14. For him, coaching is about helping students develop discipline, maturity, and confidence.

This is a Humans of Dallastown feature. Our goal is simple: to make a large school smaller by highlighting the unique voices within it.