Courtney Couch was one of the most dominant high school bowlers in Emerald Ridge High School history, and her success hasn’t stopped at the college level.

Couch, a freshman at Midland University in Nebraska, recently was named a National Collegiate Bowling Coaches Association Academic All-American.

“It takes a truly special individual to maintain this type of success in the classroom,” Midland bowling head coach JJ Mastny said in a news release. “To achieve this award at this level, a student-athlete must be deeply dedicated and character-driven.”

In order to be nominated, athletes had to have a 3.5 grade-point average or above and be a U.S. Bowling Congress college participant.

Couch also is dominating on the lanes. She recorded a team-high 1,719 pins in nine games during the Backhaul Direct Hoosier Classic on Feb. 19 in Indianapolis. The Warriors are currently ranked No. 5 in national polls.

Couch was the heart and soul of the Emerald Ridge High School bowling team during her career from 2009-12, and she led her team to three Class 4A state championships.

Her leadership was just as important to her team. She was the Jaguars’ vocal leader and inspired her teammates whenever doubt started to creep into their psyches if things weren’t going according to plan.

Last summer, Emerald Ridge head coach Al McCormack said Couch was one of the most clutch bowlers he’s coached.

“Courtney is constantly trying to improve her game,” McCormack said. “She is going to be a great phenom for Midland. Her ability to get spares is incredible. She is a very good team player and will do exactly what her team needs her to do.”

McCormack’s words last June were prophetic.

Sports Editor Shaun Scott can be reached at 253-552-7002 or by email at shaun.scott@puyallupherald.com. Follow him on Twitter, @herald_shaun.