Kane County Chronicle Athlete of Week: Lida Burgos, St. Charles East, bowling, junior

Name: Lida Burgos

School: St. Charles East, junior

Sport: Bowling

Why she was selected: Burgos placed first at the Fenton girls bowling invite. She was voted Kane County Chronicle Athlete of the Week by voters and readers. Chronicle sports reporter Jacob Bartelson caught up with Burgos to discuss her season and more. Below is an edited transcript presented by Don McCue Chevrolet in St. Charles.

Bartelson: What has been the most rewarding part of the year for you?

Burgos: So far, playing with my team has been super rewarding. They’ve been super supportive when I’ve been playing good. [I competed at a Strike Fest] a few weeks ago. I placed fourth, which was very rewarding because I’ve been working really, really hard individually. Practicing and [the] hard work has really been paying off.

Bartelson: What’s been a focus as the season has progressed for how you improve you game?

Burgos: For me, it’s my mentality. In bowling, a positive mentality has been really important. This season has been wonderful and it has helped me become a better person and athlete, as [well] as good games. My mentality has been a lot better, but also my throwing has been a lot better. Last year, it wasn’t as really good because it hasn’t been consistent, but this year, my practice and my release has been phenomenal.

Bartelson: Let’s tap into the mentality thing. Obviously, it’s probably in the lead-up before you throw. Has confidence been an issue for you where maybe you’re overthinking things on the approach?

Burgos: Sometimes, there’s some games where I throw really badly. A few weeks ago, I threw a 140-something and it threw me off. But I kind of stayed positive all the way because if I stay in a bad mentality, it’ll ruin my three games.

Bartelson: Talking team-wise, who has impressed you throughout this year?

Burgos: [St. Charles East seniors] Daniela Paladino and Emma Ontiveros have been really two helpful people through this season. They’ve helped me with my mindset, and when I’ve played bad, they’ve helped me overcome that. They’ve been really supportive throughout everything.