For those who do not know, not only do I get to work and write for Bowling.com, I also help coach Stephen F. Austin State University. I was that guy rocking the Purple Pants, along with my wife(Amber Lemke, Head Coach) coaching right beside me. This past week will be something that I will never forget. Although we did not come away with being National Champs, Runner-Up is still a great achievement! Not to mention this was our first NCAA appearance in school history. This was also our first time as coaches to ever make this stage.

To reflect upon the past quickly. SFA was that team stuck in the 9th spot for two straight years. What does that entail? That means being left behind when every other top team(Top 8 to be exact) is going to NCAA Nationals. We were that person trying to catch the bus, waving our arms frantically, hoping someone notices us. Our emotions filled up with, why and what else do we need to do in order to make NCAA Nationals. At the end of the day, we are solely responsible for our success and our failure. And the sooner we realize that, we accept that, and integrate that into our work ethic. We then will start being successful. As long as we blame others for the reason we aren't where we want to be, we will always be a failure.

This Runner-Up team brought something new to the table. The determination and work ethic was raised to a new level. Fear is not something this team installed in their bowling game. It did not matter who we faced. We were out to prove that SFA belongs at the top. Amber and I kept telling the girls that when we make it to NCAA Nationals, anything can happen. Every member of our team played a roll and helped out at every tournament including NCAA Nationals. Even though this team did not win one tournament this year, their consistency showed at every single tournament. It again showed at Nationals.

Amber and I could not be more proud of this team. They endured so much throughout this year. The practices were long. The workouts were robust. The classes were stressful. With that being said, this SFA team prevailed like no other. To see them get rewarded like this is simply amazing. We are so delighted to have this group of ladies in our lives. I can not use enough words to express how joyful Amber and myself are feeling.

Amber and I also want to say, Congratulations to Nebraska as they have proven time and time again that they are number 1 this year. Go Big Red! Enjoy it, for one day we hope to enjoy that same feeling. We also want to thank Donna and Carol(our pro-shop personnel) for everything they have done for us.

We hope to have gained the respect on and off the lanes. SFA has proven their point that they belong. They will forever be in the history books. SFA put their names on ESPN for the world to see what we have to offer. SFA shall continue to work hard and we can not wait to see what the future may hold for us! AXE'EM JACKS!!!

Steve Lemke - Bowling.com - SFA NCAA Coach