Georgia State Youth Bowling Association (GSYBA) recently awarded Coach of the Year to Fort Stewart’s Youth Bowling volunteer coach Nelson Tellame at the State Youth Bowling Jamboree in Warner Robins.

Tellames has been bowling for nearly 45 years. 

He grew up on Fort Stewart and was a member of the bowling program as a child. 

As an adult, he left the area to pursue schooling, but found himself drawn back to coach his favorite sport, he said.

“I’ve been a coach for 10 years now,” Tellames said. He decided to come back so he could teach kids of a new generation what he learned as a child. 

As a volunteer, he enjoys teaching the kids and seeing their accomplishments.

“Just a few months ago, I took two bowlers to a tournament, and one of our young ladies won a gold medal at the Georgia games,” Tellames continued. 

Seeing these students improve their skills and enjoy the sport is rewarding, he said.

Tellames credits Ron June, his former coach and mentor as a youth bowler, for helping him achieve the title.

“He was always kind and patient, and my inspiration to become a coach,” Tellames said. 

He also credits Jeff Eastlake, the current youth bowling director at Marne Lanes, who allowed him to serve as a volunteer coach, he added.

Overall, Tellames said he’s grateful to be recognized after four years of membership with the GSYBA.

“It means a lot,” Tellames said. 

“To know that all the work I’ve put in, and helping these kids, it’s nice to be appreciated for the work I’ve done and it means a lot to me.” 

Tellames says he plans to coach for as long as he can, and for as long as he’s able.