Mililani Grad Heading To Maryland On Bowling Scholarship
Daniele August at home, in a bowling alley. Photo from Daniele August.
In the local bowling community, Daniele August might be called a late bloomer. That was perhaps of her own doing.
“I started bowling when I was 5 — it was the one sport I always have been interested in, but I didn’t take it seriously until my sophomore or junior year of high school,” said August. “It didn’t click for me until then.”
August, who committed recently to attend University of Maryland Eastern Shore on a bowling scholarship, saw her new mindset pay off in a big way as a senior last year at Mililani High School. She finished second at the state bowling championships, after finishing 14th the year before.
August has spent the 2014-15 school year attending classes at Leeward Community College, meaning she will be a year ahead, academically, when she arrives at Maryland Eastern Shore. August recently took some time to visit with Central Oahu Islander.
What is your earliest sports-related memory? I’d gotten a plastic bowling set for Christmas, and I put it in the hallway of our house, like an alley. I had a towel, and I would clean the ball as if it was a real bowling ball and my mom would keep score for me.
Who’s had the biggest impact on your life? My parents (Dennis and Marlene). They were the ones who got me into bowling. They bowl. That’s how they met. They never forced me to do it, but if I wanted to do it, they were going to support me in any way. That was huge for me.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned through athletics? I’ve learned a lot about attitude — and just how much your attitude can affect everything and influence you and your teammates. Bowling is a big team sport, and it helps when you stay positive.
What Internet site do you frequent the most? YouTube, because of the U.S. Bowling Congress. They have a channel that streams live bowling events, college and pro.
What is your least favorite household chore? Washing the dishes and cooking rice.
What movie could you watch over and over? Pocahontas.
Who are three of your favorite musical artists? The first would be Sam Hunt, second is Rihanna and third would be Def Leppard.
How do you like to spend your free time? I like to hang out with my dog, Kai. She loves attention.
If you were planning a trip, what would be the destination of your choice? Europe. I’d like to travel to places like Italy, Germany and London.
You’re stuck on Kaho‘olawe and can have an endless supply of just one food. What would it be? I’ve actually been to Kaho‘olawe, it’s pretty awesome! It would probably be lau lau. I love lau lau.
What celebrity would you most like to meet? Rihanna. I like her attitude about things.
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