Yea, Bitches!
- Tara Obner
- Jun 17, 2025
- 6 min read

At Omaha South High School, the recreational bowling league for staff has become the highlight of many teachers’ and administrators’ weeks, blending friendly competition with a generous dose of humor and amity. Though the participants might not boast professional bowling skills—indeed, “little talent” seems to be the unspoken league motto—the lanes echo with laughter, playful banter, and relentless smack talk that keeps spirits high and stress low. Each fall, groups of staff members gather, eagerly donning their lucky socks and quirky team names, ready to unleash gutter balls and occasional strikes alike. The thrill isn’t in perfect scores but in the shared moments of fun and connection away from the classrooms, where mock rivalries spark and legendary tales of near-misses and improbable spares grow with every frame. For many, this league isn’t just about the pins—it’s about building relationships, unwinding after long days, and proving that even without knockout talent, a good dose of humor and heart can make anyone a champion.
In 2006, I took a leap and joined South’s bowling league alongside a lively group of English teachers, despite having absolutely zero skill in bowling. Walking into Chop's bowling alley for the first time, I was nervous and unsure of what to expect, but my enthusiasm quickly took over any hesitation. Each week, as we competed and laughed together, I gradually learned the basics of the game, though my scoreboard rarely reflected any real talent. What made the experience truly memorable wasn’t the strikes or spares, but the friendship and shared joy of trying something new with friends. The laughter over gutter balls and friendly banter turned into treasured moments, proving that sometimes, the fun of participation far outweighs natural ability. Joining the league not only helped me improve my bowling but also forged lasting connections that extended well beyond the lanes.
Over the years, my bowling team has experienced the bittersweet cycle of losing members as they transfer to other schools or move on to new opportunities, yet despite these changes, our team’s spirit and unity remain unshaken. Each departure leaves a small gap, but it also opens the door for new faces and fresh talent to join our ranks, bringing with them unique skills and renewed enthusiasm. This constant evolution has not only kept our team dynamic and adaptable but has also fostered a strong sense of resilience and unity among us. As we welcome new members, we share stories, teach techniques, and build friendships that turn strangers into teammates, ensuring that no matter how many people come and go, the core of our bowling family stays intact and ever passionate about the sport.
One of the most rewarding aspects of our bowling league is the wonderful mix of members, especially the inclusion of retired teachers and staff who generously share captivating stories from the school’s past. These seasoned veterans bring a rich history and countless memories that add a unique depth to our gatherings, transforming each game night into more than just a friendly competition. As pins fall and laughter fills the air, we find ourselves transported through time, hearing tales of unforgettable pranks, inspiring educators, and the evolution of the school community over the decades. Their stories not only foster a strong sense of solidarity but also deepen our appreciation for the legacy that shapes our present, making the league feel like a vibrant, intergenerational family where learning and fun go hand in hand.
Rick Benak, the sharp-witted math teacher with a knack for numbers and a mischievous sense of humor, has earned a reputation as the self-proclaimed “smartass” of the school, but it’s his role as the head of the bowling league that truly showcases his passion for precision and playfulness. Beyond the classroom, Benak meticulously keeps detailed statistics for each player, analyzing scores and strike rates with the keen eye of a seasoned mathematician, turning what some see as a casual pastime into a thrilling contest of skill and strategy. Every week, he channels his sharp analytical mind and tongue-in-cheek commentary into a lively newsletter, blending clever puns with insightful game breakdowns that keep the league members both informed and entertained. His unique blend of humor, expertise, and dedication makes the bowling league not just a sport but a community where numbers meet fun in the most unexpected and delightful ways.
Helen, a long-time cherished member of our bowling league, started a beloved tradition of bringing her signature snack mix each week to accompany our beer pitchers. Her snack mix—a delightful combination of crunchy pretzels, spicy nuts, and savory bits—not only tantalizes our taste buds but also fosters a warm sense of fellowship among the teams. Every time she places that colorful bowl on the rail above the lanes, it signals the start of an evening filled with friendly competition, laughter, and shared stories. Helen’s thoughtful gesture goes beyond just snacks; it embodies the spirit of community and togetherness that makes our league more than just a group of players—it’s a gathering of friends who look forward to these simple joys week after week.
Tom, formerly in charge of South’s special education department, is distinguished not only by his genuine kindness and calm patience but also by his unexpected musical talent. At South High, Mr. Jodlowski gained recognition for entertaining with his accordion, whether inside the special education classroom or wandering the corridors, filling the air with uplifting tunes. Within our league, Tom holds an important position as the person responsible for gathering fees from every participant, always accompanied by a friendly smile and motivating remarks. His dedication to both the school and the league reflects his sincere wish to nurture a friendly and positive community atmosphere.
Every year there are one or two skilled teams that stand out—not just for their superior talent, but also for their growing frustration with the overall environment. These teams, usually composed of experienced or highly dedicated bowlers, can become noticeably annoyed by the league’s lack of competitive skill and its frequent bouts of rowdy behavior. While they show up each week expecting challenging matches and spirited competition, they often find themselves contending with first time bowlers, unprepared opponents, and what they consider unsportsmanlike conduct that disrupts the flow of the game. This disparity creates a unique tension within the league, as these skilled teams strive to maintain their standards and passion for the sport amid a culture that often prioritizes fun over the rule book.
Though my bowling team has steadfastly remained in the lower third of our league’s twelve teams, our reputation for relentless smack talk far outshines our scorecards. We may not be racking up strikes or climbing the rankings, but what we lack in pins knocked down, we more than make up for in confident banter and playful trash talk that fills the lanes with energy and laughter. Our loud, spirited call of "Yea, Bitches!" after every spare or strike keeps the atmosphere electric, often catching our higher-ranked opponents off guard and reminding everyone that bowling isn’t just about skill—it’s also about having fun. In fact, many teams have admitted they secretly look forward to facing us, not because they fear our gameplay, but because they can’t resist the entertaining verbal sparring and the lively personality we bring to every frame. So, while trophies might not be on our mantle just yet, our unmatched swagger and team spirit have certainly carved out a memorable niche in the league.
Although I left South back in 2019, this year marks my twentieth season participating in our diverse bowling league – a community made up of seasoned storytellers, meticulous scorekeepers, generous providers of snacks, music lovers, fierce competitors, and passionate underdogs. Together, we create a vibrant mosaic of camaraderie and connection. Our league is much more than a simple hobby; it serves as a gathering place where multiple generations and distinct personalities meet, share laughter, and forge enduring memories. Regardless of the outcome, what binds us is the excitement of showing up each week, eager to bowl, joke, and bond. As the final pins tumble this autumn, the spirited cheer of our team’s rallying call, "Yea, Bitches!" rings out louder than ever, a testament to the fact that in this small corner of the world, friendship always comes first.










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