Franklin Regional rallies past Hempfield for WPIBL boys team bowling title

By: Triblive
Wednesday, February 14, 2024 | 9:48 PM

With its back against the wall after losing the first game of the best-of-three championship match, the Franklin Regional boys bowling team did its best work.

The Panthers won the final two games of the series Wednesday at AMF Belle Vernon, claiming their third WPIBL boys team championship and first since 2018.

Hempfield defeated Franklin Regional, 194-150, in the first game of the Baker format finals. The Panthers responded with a 220-165 win in Game 2 and a 188-181 victory in a tense Game 3 to claim the title.

Hempfield advanced to the championship match by defeating Shaler in three games in the semifinals.

The Titans won the first game, 180-149, before the Spartans took over with a 182-160 win in Game 2 and a 188-116 victory in Game 3.

The top 19 teams advanced to the Western Regional boys team championships March 2 and AMF Noble Manor.

In addition to Franklin Regional, Hempfield and Shaler, the other regional qualifiers are North Allegheny, Thomas Jefferson, Greensburg Salem, Plum, Burrell, Armstrong, Gateway, Latrobe, Baldwin, Connellsville, Serra Catholic, Moon, New Castle, Carlynton, Montour and Blackhawk.

The WPIBL girls team championships are scheduled for Thursday at AMF Belle Vernon.