Beckham Lieu of Patrick F. Taylor Science & Technology Academy achieved a rare feat at the Louisiana high school state championships, securing both a team and an individual bowling title over two consecutive days, according to an April 15 report.
The achievement is notable for its demonstration of composure and leadership under pressure, qualities often valued in high school sports. Lieu’s performance not only brought his school its first-ever bowling state championship but also highlighted the impact one athlete can have on a team’s success.
Lieu advanced through Friday’s singles qualifying round by just two pins, finishing with scores of 227, 213, 235, and 235 for a total of 910. “I’m just grateful that I even made the cut,” Lieu said. “Initially I thought I didn’t bowl good enough to make it. Hearing that I only made it by two pins, I was just proud of myself for being here.” He continued this mindset throughout the tournament: “I said that no matter what happens I’ll be proud of myself. I’m not going to get down if I mess up,” he said. “I made some mistakes—I missed a single pin in the championship match—but I just kept pushing through… just happy to be here.” In the final match against Carson Childers of French Settlement, Lieu won with a score of 215-186.
Patrick Taylor’s team entered as the No. 5 seed and went on to defeat Belle Chasse in regionals before overcoming higher-seeded teams including Vandebilt Catholic and Episcopal en route to a decisive victory over Archbishop Shaw in the Division II final. Head coach Brittany Walls praised her team’s efforts: “It was incredible,” she said. “To watch the kids, the hard work they’ve put in… they’ve really worked for it the last three years. It was really rewarding to see that work pay off.” Walls described Lieu as someone who has grown from team manager as an eighth grader into his current role as senior leader: “He really stepped into that leadership role and owned it this year.”
Lieu credited his teammates for their contributions: “I’ve got a lot of impressive bowlers on my team… Middle schoolers starting for a varsity team… you don’t see that very often… They’re very talented.” As he reflected on his last high school match—he is set to attend Duke University—Lieu expressed optimism about Patrick Taylor’s future: “I think they’re going to do just fine without me.”
Looking ahead, Lieu hopes to start a bowling team at Duke University despite not planning collegiate competition himself—a sign that his commitment extends beyond personal accolades.
The story underscores how perseverance and teamwork can lead students not only toward victory but also personal growth.
