—As told to Kerry Smith


Hit your mark, follow through, and keep going. In bowling and in life, the principles are much the same. And Rjani Kaya (pronounced Ranny and Ki-yuh) should know. At school, a bowling tournament, home, church or wherever she may be, Rjani focuses on good goals and keeps going until they're accomplished.

How do lessons learned from bowling help you personally?

 

 

When I step up to bowl, I first focus on floor markers to guide my steps before I release my ball. I'm more likely to hit my target zone if I first focus on what's closest to me. In my personal life, I'm very close to family, especially my parents, Ransom and Nani. I have a rich heritage and descend from Norwegian, Japanese, and Hawaiian ancestors. When my Grandma Johnson was alive, she taught me this Hawaiian saying, "Kulia i ka Nu'u." It means "Reach for the Summit." I can do this when I first focus on family and the gospel. Bowling also teaches you to "follow through and keep going." How has this helped you to overcome challenges?

When I experienced ongoing bullying from a peer, I was troubled for a time. I sought advice and comfort from my parents and seminary teacher and through studying the prophet's counsel and the scriptures. The bully eventually moved away, and I was able to "course correct" by remembering my divine worth.

Why is it important to "keep going"?

My personal goals focus on my spiritual growth as well. As a member of the Lord's true Church, I strive to do my best. I try to improve every day.

Name: Rjani Kaya

 

Age: 15

 

Hometown: Nampa, Idaho

 

Major Accomplishments: Highest scratch game 288. USBC Junior Gold member. 2010 Idaho Regional Teen Master National Girls' Division, first-place qualifier. 2008–2010 finalist for the National Teen Masters Tournament. First chair violinist at Vallivue High School. Honor student.

Photograph by Kerry Smith

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