Jericho resident Patrick Marinelli is preparing to represent Long Island at the New York State Youth Scholarship Bowling tournament in Albany.

Marinelli, 12, who has loved bowling since he was five, was one of 240 boys and girls to compete in the local stage of the New York tournament. On March 13 and 14, 30 contestants advanced to compete at the regional finals in Patchogue. Marinelli bowled a 677 series and tied for first place with Michael Stella of Lynbrook.

Had they been a year older, both boys would have gone to Albany to compete. However, it was ruled they were to compete head-to-head in a one-game roll-off on March 21. The boys were evenly matched with only a one-pin handicap difference as they entered County Line Bowl in Farmingdale. the pressure was intense for the youths as they started their practice. As one would throw a strike, the other would come back with a strike as well.

After receiving a good luck hug and kiss from his mother Connie, father Mike and younger brother Michael, he was ready to begin. The parents and small crowd watched with anticipation as these boys competed. True champions, the boys would high five each other after every frame. In the end, Stella had a 149 and Marinelli had a 198 and a trip to Albany to represent Long Island.

Although only a seventh-grader at Jericho Middle School, Marinelli was a member of the Jericho Varsity and Junior Varsity team. At the end of the season he received the award for most improved bowler.