As a bowler at Williamsville North High School, senior Ashley Roca had the second-highest average score in her league.

"It’s a really mentally-draining sport," said Roca. "But I just know I have to stay positive."

That frame of mind has been a striking success.

"I love that it’s such an individual and team sport, and that’s such a big thing for me," she said.

When she was younger, Roca started bowling in a league with her father Eric, who just so happens to be her varsity coach. Her younger sister is also part of the team.

"That’s definitely why I like it as much as I do. Me and my sister are super close. Me and my dad are super close, so getting to have them by my side and always pushing me — they know my limits, I know mine. They’ll always encourage me to be the best that I can be," Roca said.

Her parents have always encouraged her to stay busy and give her best.

"Competition is very big in our household. We are very competitive. Therefore, she wanted to continue with bowling in a more competitive light. That kind of stemmed into her trying out for the varsity team here at North," Eric said.

While Ashley strives to improve, she also works to encourage others to do the same.

"It’s just a really good opportunity for me and I think for them, knowing people look up to me I always want to lead by an example," she said.

"She’s just an amazing influence and she always puts me in the right direction and keeps me positive. Sometimes I can get in my head and get stressed out but she’s always been there to pick me up," said teammate Alexandria Zdyb.

Ashley also participates in soccer, lacrosse and flag football, volunteer activities and has a job. And through it all, she stands out in the classroom with a 4.0 GPA and is a member of National Honor Society.

"Self-motivation is a big thing that I need to have all the time. So every time I have school I make sure I focus on it in and out of school. Same with sports. I’m always pushing myself in and out of school," she said.

The results speak for themselves. Ashely will continue her athletic and academic career on the bowling team at NCAA Div. II Roberts Wesleyan University, with plans of one day becoming a physical education teacher.

"It’s definitely such an honor to play at the next level and getting there has been super difficult, but having family and friends to help motivate you, you’ll definitely get there if you just push yourself," Ashley said.