Pella Christian Boys Bowling Finishes 5th at State Qualifier

Team records 4,504 total pins, led by Andrew Van Kooten's 528 series

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The Pella Christian boys bowling team wrapped up their season on Monday with a fifth-place finish at the State Qualifying Meet hosted by Monticello. The Eagle Boys recorded a total team score of 4,504 pins, finishing ahead of Knoxville's 4,337. Andrew Van Kooten led Pella Christian with a 3-game series of 528, followed by Ethan Klaasen at 492 and Dylan Klaasen at 483.

Why it matters

The State Qualifying Meet is the final competition of the season for high school bowling teams in Iowa, determining which teams advance to the state tournament. While Pella Christian fell short of qualifying, their fifth-place finish caps off a season of steady improvement under head coach Rod Blunck.

The details

In addition to Van Kooten, Ethan Klaasen, and Dylan Klaasen, the Pella Christian lineup included Caleb Seieroe (402 pins) and William Nett (368 pins). Coach Blunck was pleased with the team's effort, saying they continued to get better throughout the season and that this was their best showing of the winter.

  • The State Qualifying Meet was held on Monday, February 17, 2026.

The players

Andrew Van Kooten

The top bowler for Pella Christian, recording a 3-game series of 528 pins.

Ethan Klaasen

Pella Christian bowler who finished with a 492 pin series.

Dylan Klaasen

Pella Christian bowler who finished with a 483 pin series.

Caleb Seieroe

Pella Christian bowler who finished with a 402 pin series.

William Nett

Pella Christian bowler who finished with a 368 pin series.

Rod Blunck

Head coach of the Pella Christian boys bowling team.

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What they’re saying

“I was thrilled with the effort the boys put in throughout the season, and I'm disappointed that the season came to an end.”

— Rod Blunck, Head Coach (kniakrls.com)

The takeaway

While Pella Christian's boys bowling team fell short of advancing to the state tournament, their fifth-place finish at the qualifying meet shows the program's steady progress under Coach Blunck. The team's improvement throughout the season bodes well for their future prospects in high school bowling.