ALTON — Corbin Radford Barnard, a senior at Marquette Catholic High School, is being recognized for his achievements in bowling.
Barnard has averaged a 223 score throughout the 2025-2026 season and was part of the first Marquette bowling team to qualify for the state competition last year. Barnard is a Tucker's Automotive Male Athlete of the Month for the Explorers.
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Barnard has played bowling for all four years of high school and credits his success to the strong bond he shares with his coach, Mark Jones.
“Mark Jones has been like a mentor to me, teaching me everything he knows and giving me a job to further our relationship,” Barnard said. Jones has coached Barnard since the beginning of his bowling career.
Barnard also expressed gratitude toward his parents, especially his mother, for their emotional and financial support.
“Definitely my mom for coming to every match she can make, rescheduling work to be there for my accomplishments has been so important,” he said.
Despite suffering injuries, including a torn lateral meniscus and MPFL in his left knee, Barnard said he persevered and returned stronger. His dedication to the sport has extended beyond competition; he has worked as a mechanic at a bowling alley for about a year and a half.
Outside of bowling, Barnard enjoys golfing in his free time.
Academically, he has maintained a 3.5 GPA while balancing sports and other commitments.
Looking ahead, he is considering attending Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and is waiting to hear from colleges interested in him for bowling. Although undecided on a major, Barnard is contemplating following his father’s path in construction management.
