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Teen dependent wins state bowling award, inspires all

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Amber R. Kelly-Herard
  • Air Mobility Command Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  Being born without the ability to walk independently has not stopped a 15-year-old from doing what he loves: being an Eagle Scout, participating in family game night and bowling.

Recently, Fletcher Hopkins' passion for bowling landed him recognition. To be exact, he was named the 2013 Illinois High School Association Boys' Bowling Top Individual in the wheelchair division.

This was also the inaugural year the wheelchair division was included in the IHSA Boys' Bowling State Finals.

"I felt excellent," said Fletcher, Mascoutah High School freshman. "I had a lot of fun."

Fletcher began bowling when he was 5 years old.

"It was a crazy moment," said Col. Steve Hopkins, 618th Air and Space Operations Center (Tanker Airlift Control Center) Mission Support director and Fletcher's father. "He's been bowling for so long and to see the recognition his high school gave him and the ability to participate, it's amazing."

"Kids with special needs are not always included, but his school and coaches Mark Tubb and James Carmody allowed him to try out, earn a spot on the team and do what other kids do," the California, Md., native continued.

Fletcher's position on the team helps both him and his teammates.

"Fletcher Hopkins has been an inspiration to our team," said Tubb, Mascoutah High School Bowling Team head coach. "He represents why bowling is the sport of a lifetime regardless of physical abilities.

'His positive attitude coupled with his determination have made our team the most cohesive I have ever been involved with," Tubb continued. "The support of our opponents demonstrates that sportsmanship is the bigger part of the sport."

To stay active, Fletcher also serves as the varsity football team's assistant manager.

"I appreciate that the Mascoutah High School Athletic Director and Coach entered him into the tournament and provided this great opportunity," said Sharon Hopkins, Fletcher's mom.

Fletcher can also be found bowling on the Scott Air Force Base Saturday Youth League.