Local Himes gets All-American nod | Champion bowler earns $1,000 scholarship

TEXARKANA, Ark. - Linda Himes not only won a state championship this year and also started her college career at Kansas Wesleyan University, but she was also named to the Dexter High School All-American Team.

"It was definitely new having to go up on stage and represent Arkansas in front of everyone," Himes said. "It was really nice because people from Arkansas usually don't get recognized for bowling. It was a really cool experience."

To be considered for selection to the Dexter All-American team, candidates were required to have at least a 3.0 grade-point average (on a 4.0 scale) and submit a resume of their bowling and academic achievements, along with an essay. Applicants also had to provide two recommendation letters one from their coach or athletic director and at least one additional letter.

Each team member received a $1,000 scholarship.

Himes led Arkansas High to a Class 5A bowling state championship last season and also set a state mark with a 756 series.

"High school bowling continues to grow and we had a very strong field of candidates for this year's team," Dexter Bowling Vice President Tyler Jensen said. "We appreciate the opportunity to recognize these outstanding young bowlers."

Himes has also started her career as a Lady Coyote in Salina, Kan.

"Everything is going pretty good," Himes said. "I've been practicing a lot. We actually won our first collegiate bowling tournament of the season.

"There's definitely a change from college to high school but hopefully my experience will guide me through. Right now, we're trying to make the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics championships and also the NAIA team championships. We're really focused on making those."

Himes is the daughter of Stacey and Larry Himes.

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