Ethan Bachmann is a dedicated and talented ten-pin bowler who has made a name for himself in the sport, overcoming a significant challenge in his young life.

“After having knee surgery when I was six and a half years old, I was limited to what sports I could do,” shared Ethan.

“I always wanted to go ten-pin bowling for my birthdays. In 2020, Mum saw an ad for a ‘come and try’ day for the junior leagues in Mackay, and we decided to go down and have a go and see what it was all about.

“I haven’t looked back since, even with losing half of my first year to COVID.”

Ethan now competes in three local leagues a week and subs for another one. One of his most memorable achievements is being part of the winning President Shield team in 2024, representing North Queensland.

“It was North Queensland’s second win, with the last being 22 years ago. I was also part of the highest finishing North Queensland boys’ team,” Ethan said with pride.

Preparing for major tournaments like the National Junior Championships requires both mental and physical dedication.

“Physically, I do lots of training on the lanes, doing drills and practice, and strengthening my body. Mentally, I focus on the present, don’t worry about what might happen, and focus on my own game. I try not to overthink things and take it one shot at a time.

“On average, I train six hours a week. This includes individual training on my own, with other junior bowlers, and with a coach. It consists of a warm-up game, drills, practising different shots and spares, theory, and a warm-down/fun game. In preparation for the Australian Championships and President Shield competition, there was team training once a month in Ayr.”

Ethan’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges though.

“Learning to overcome the mental game and adopting new strategies to be able to push through and overcome having a bad game.

“Plus, the ability to be able to read a lane and adjust and adapt quickly. No two lanes or two centres are the same, what works for one is more than likely not going to work for another.”

Balancing time between school, training, and competitions requires good time management and Ethan credits his mum for providing help and direction. He has had many mentors along the way, from coaches in Mackay to those from the North Queensland team, as well as the many people he has bowled with and against.

Ethan said it’s easy to find motivation to keep training because of how much he enjoys playing, and because of the many friends he as made along the way, from all over Australia, New Zealand and Tasmania.

Looking to the future, Ethan has clear goals for his bowling career.

“Gain more competition experience doing larger competitions. Make the NTS (National Training Squad). Travel to and compete in Malaysia.”

When asked for advice for young aspiring bowlers Ethan said always take it one shot at a time.

“Focus on your own game and try not to look at the scores until the end of the game. Most importantly, have fun.”

If you’re interested in trying your hand at ten-pin bowling, the Mackay Leisure Centre offers opportunities to learn and join junior league. https://www.mackayleisurecentre.com.au/