Nathan Mondo, a dedicated junior at Fort Pierce Central High School, is a rising star in the world of bowling. At just 16 years old, Nathan’s passion for the sport has already made him a standout player on his varsity team. With three years of competitive bowling under his belt, Nathan serves as the team captain and anchor, bringing leadership, skill, and a 4.0 GPA to the table.
Standing at 5’7” and weighing 200 pounds, Nathan spends the majority of his free time at the bowling alley, constantly refining his skills. His tireless dedication to the sport is evident in his impressive record, but it’s his commitment to helping others that truly sets him apart. “The best thing about me is my dedication to help others learn how to bowl,” he shares, highlighting his supportive nature.
Although bowling is his primary focus, Nathan also enjoys playing football, participating in a flag football recreational league on Saturdays. Despite his love for football, bowling remains his top priority, and his ultimate goal is to become a professional bowler.
Nathan’s happiest moments come when he’s at the alley, “in my own zone, striking and perfecting my back-up ball,” he says. However, he’s also deeply motivated by his personal challenges and the hard work he puts into his craft. He admits to feeling frustrated when people don’t understand just how much effort he puts into bowling, a sport he’s been passionate about since the age of three.
Nathan’s dedication is further inspired by his grandfather, who has been his mentor and coach since he first picked up a bowling ball. “My grandpa drives down from Orlando every week to watch me play and guide me through tournaments,” Nathan shares. After Nathan achieved his first perfect 300 game, his grandfather proudly declared, “The student is now the master!” Their bond has strengthened over the years, making his grandfather the person Nathan admires most.
Though bowling dominates much of his life, Nathan has a few surprising hobbies. For instance, he has been collecting Godzilla memorabilia since the age of three. His love for Godzilla even inspires his dream travel destination—Japan, where he hopes to explore the culture behind his favorite monster. Nathan’s peers might also be surprised to know that, despite his bowling focus, he’s also quite skilled at football.
Described by others as “dedicated,” “helpful,” and “respectable,” Nathan is a model student-athlete. His favorite aspect of school is the support he receives from his teachers and friends. Outside of sports, family is his top priority, and he values the life lessons bowling has taught him, including discipline, teamwork, and resilience.
Nathan has big dreams for the future. In ten years, he sees himself competing on the PBA (Professional Bowlers Association) circuit, continuing to perfect his game and striving for that elusive 300. He’s motivated by the knowledge that there’s always room for improvement and is eager to meet and bowl with his idol, Jason Belmonte, a two-handed bowler like himself.
When asked about his greatest wish, Nathan is clear: “To become a professional bowler.” He’s already eyeing several top-tier bowling programs for college, including Webber International University, the University of Nebraska - Lincoln, and Wichita State University.
With his determination, talent, and family support, Nathan Mondo is well on his way to achieving his dreams. He’s not just another bowler; he’s a young athlete with a clear vision, a supportive community, and the drive to keep pushing forward. If there’s one thing Nathan is sure of, it’s that the world will be seeing many more perfect games from him in the future. Keep an eye out for this future PBA star!
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