Dasha Kovalova's story is one of remarkable resilience, transformation, and triumph over adversity. From her early days in Ukraine to becoming a Professional Women's Bowling Association (PWBA) champion in the United States, Kovalova's journey is an inspiring tale of hard work, determination, and the power of art and community.
A Ukrainian Bowler's American Dream
Originally from Ukraine, Kovalova's journey began at the age of 10 when a woman at a bowling alley in Russia offered to teach her the sport after seeing her upset about throwing a gutterball. Her parents, both former athletes in the USSR, instilled in her a strong work ethic. This dedication propelled her to excel in collegiate bowling, eventually leading her to a professional career in the United States.
At 17, Kovalova found herself in Wichita, Kansas, a stark contrast to her birthplace in Ukraine and her then-home in Russia. The transition was challenging for the shy and timid Kovalova, despite her early success in bowling.
Overcoming Challenges and Building Confidence
Kovalova's journey wasn't without its obstacles. She struggled with self-doubt and the fear of making mistakes. "I am afraid to make mistakes when I bowl,” Kovalova says. “That's how I am in my life. I'm very hard on myself so when I make a mistake it's almost like I'm a control freak. If I don't strike, then this is it. People are gonna hate me. My parents are gonna disown me." However, her resolute nature and unwavering work ethic helped her overcome these challenges. "The one thing that I really am proud of about myself is I know I'm a hard worker and I'm very stubborn,” Kovalova says. “If I know that I can succeed at something, I will work very, very hard to achieve that even though it might take a lot of heartbreak and a lot of me feeling miserable."
The Turning Point: A Vision for the Future
During her third year at school, a sports management class assignment proved to be a pivotal moment. Kovalova was asked to write about her future in five years. She chose to write about bowling, envisioning herself winning multiple titles. This exercise solidified her ambitions and set her on the path to professional success.
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From Collegiate Star to PWBA Champion
Kovalova's collegiate bowling career was outstanding, setting the stage for her transition to the PWBA Tour after graduating in 2016. Despite the challenges of professional bowling, Kovalova's hard work and determination paid off. The first breakthroughs came in 2019, culminating in her first major tournament victory at the 2019 USBC Queens in Wichita.
A 300 Game and Dreams Come True
Kovalova's dreams materialized when she secured her second title with a perfect 300 game. It was about five years after Kovalova wrote that class paper. She had her professional bowling career, and she had her multiple titles.
The Role of Art in Kovalova's Life
Beyond bowling, art plays a significant role in Kovalova's life. Inspired by Anime, she began drawing at 14 and has since used her artistic talents to design her own jerseys and bowling balls. "Art helps her because it allows her to be able to express herself to the world and through her paintings,” says Galante, who has become great friends with Kovalova. Kovalova was 14 years old when she started drawing, inspired by Anime. She said her first drawing was nothing spectacular but there was a natural ability inside her fingers. She studied it in school and has stayed in the industry as her side hustle while working on the PWBA Tour. She designs her own jersey. She has designed bowling balls. One day, Kovalova might even write her own graphic novel. “I have a character for anxiety. I have a character for jealousy. I have a character for joy. But there is also another advantage to her artistic skills: The ability to visualize breaks and paths on the lanes.
Her artistic skills also translate to her bowling game, allowing her to visualize breaks and paths on the lanes. “She’s an artist - the drawings alone can tell you that,” Lewis says. “That kind of artistic skill translates into an elite player in multiple sports because she just can see what she needs to do. It's a golfer being able to see shots and see shapes.
The Impact of War and Family Support
The last two years have been particularly challenging for Kovalova. The war in her home country of Ukraine has deeply affected her, causing her immense emotional distress. When the war started, her parents were still in Russia. Then all Kovalova got from them was radio silence. Her parents fled Russia with very little, embarking on a long and arduous journey to reunite with her in the United States.
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"I saw my dad cry for the first time because he was so worried that they were not going to be able to get out and they would get busted,” Kovalova says. “That was rough to see because I was like, ‘Oh, my God, dad.’ He's a man. He doesn't cry.
Despite the challenges, Kovalova remained resilient, using her art to process her emotions and seeking therapy. When she had felt herself begin to spiral, she started going to therapy, something she continues to do today. “Resilience is the main word of the last year,” she says.
Her friends know the pain the conflict has caused her. “The good that she gets out of the day, I think she holds on to that. With her mother in attendance, Kovalova earned the second seed for the stepladder. She then won both of her matches to win the title, her fifth on the PWBA Tour. “They brought me here to the United States for a better future. They said that bowling will help me in the future,” Kovalova said. “I didn't believe them at first.
Community Support and Inspiration
The bowling community in West Michigan rallied around Kovalova and her family, offering support and assistance. Brunswick Bowling, her sponsor, played a crucial role in helping her parents find employment and adjust to their new life in the United States.
Kovalova's story inspires young girls to pursue their dreams, even if they feel like they don't fit in. “She said that she actually wants to inspire other young girls that even if you are awkward and don't feel like you fit in or don't feel like you have a place in this world, you can still go after your dreams and do what you want to do with your life,” Bercier said. “I admire that too.
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A Bright Future
Dasha Kovalova's journey is a testament to her resilience, talent, and the unwavering support of her family and community. She might be resisting a full plunge into a truly adult world but Kovalova keeps growing up - whether it be one strike, one painting or one gift at a time. As she continues to excel in her bowling career and inspire others, her story serves as a reminder that with hard work, determination, and a little bit of art, anything is possible.