Moose Lake, MN - Every Tuesday and Wednesday from September through April, the Route 61 bowling alley is abuzz with activity as youth bowlers from Moose Lake, Willow River, and Barnum gather to compete in a sanctioned league.

Volunteers Christina Cosgrove and Machelle Fishback are on hand each week to help the kids with their bowling and to keep the league running smoothly.

"I enjoy bowling because it's fun and I get to hang out with my friends," said 11-year-old James.

In March and April, the league's top bowlers qualified to participate in three regional tournaments: the Storm, the Pepsi Challenge, and the Singles tournament.

"I enjoy bowling because I like to compete," said 11-year-old Vincent.

Several Route 61 bowlers advanced to the state competition, including Auron Fishback (U10 boys) and Emma Hanson (U8 girls) in the Pepsi Challenge, and Auron Fishback, Emma Hanson, Atticus Richter, Jackson Rigelman, and Logan Hanson (all U12) in the Storm.

The league is open to youth bowlers of all ages, from kindergarten through high school. Machelle reports that there are typically 16-18 kids in the league each day.

"The kids are really enthusiastic about bowling," she said. "They cheer each other on and they're always trying to improve their scores."

The league wraps up at the end of April with a tournament and a party.

"It's a great way to end the season," said Christina. "The kids have a lot of fun and they get to celebrate all their hard work."

If you're interested in signing your child up for the youth bowling league, watch for information at back-to-school nights in the fall.