MANANGATANG’S Alannah Taylor returned from Melbourne this month with a Bowls State Development title.
She represented Victoria in the under-25 side against New South Wales.
The Victorian squad, made up of 16 players across men’s and women’s teams, claimed a two-to-one victory over their interstate rivals.
For Alannah, the call-up came as a surprise.
“It was an exciting couple of weeks leading into it,” she said.
“I didn’t really know anyone going in, but the group of girls I played with were amazing.
“We gelled so quickly, and I think that’s why we had success.”
After a tough second game on grass, the team rallied to win the deciding test on the same surface.
“That was huge for us,” she said.
“To come away with the shield was the icing on top of an already incredible week.
“The experience has taught me to take chances, strive to be my best, and grab every opportunity I’m given.”
Introduced to bowls by her mum Lyndal, Alannah says the sport has given her more than just competition.
“The people you meet are the most incredible thing I’ve got out of it,” she said.
“I’ve met so many people of all ages who I now consider family.”
Lyndal said since moving to Racecourse Bowls Club, Alannah’s game has improved no end.
“She’s been taken under the club’s wing and made to feel so comfortable, which is so important for a young player,” she said.
“She has a very proud family.”
Lyndal also credited a key mentor.
“Her teammate Norm Smith has been such a calming influence,” she said.
“He goes out of his way to help her with her game, and it’s made a huge difference.”
Alannah acknowledged her family and the club’s role in her success.
“I wouldn’t have had these opportunities without their support,” she said.
“It meant the world to me to have them beside me as I got to represent Victoria for the first time.”
Back on the local circuit, Alannah’s focus is on upcoming tournaments, pennant season, and club and area events.
“Opportunities like this have given me the confidence to aim higher, but for now it’s about doing my best locally and putting my name forward whenever I can,” she said.
“One day I’d love to play in Victoria’s open women’s side, and if the chance ever came to represent Australia, I think anyone would jump at it.
“That’s still a long way off, so I’m just taking every opportunity as it comes.”
Alannah said bowls has given her so much, and encourages others to give it a go.
“You never know where it might take you,” she said.
