Finding Peace Under Pressure: A Freshman Biologist’s Game Plan at Greenville University
Published: December 05, 2025
Author: Luis Palmer
The Mental Game of a Freshman Biologist
As a freshman biology major, Joey Kehl brings a strong philosophy of mental game to the Greenville University bowling team’s growing program.
For him, success comes down to mental toughness—an approach that guides his daily balance of rigorous science coursework, spiritual discipline, and athletic training. He recognizes that his field of study, biology, requires the same focus and precision he brings to the lanes.
Kehl’s mornings start. He wakes up about an hour before his first class to get ready for the day. “Sometimes I’ll eat breakfast, sometimes I don’t—it just depends on what I feel like getting out of bed,” he says with a grin.
From there, his schedule fills quickly with classes, study sessions, and practice. For Kehl, success in both academics and athletics depends on mental strength. He estimates that bowling is “about 70 percent mental, 30 percent physical,” and adds that the same balance applies to life: “If you’re not mentally there, your life’s miserable.”
The Discipline of the Daily Grind
Like most student-athletes, Kehl’s schedule runs on a steady rotation between coursework and practice. Between classes, he squeezes in “a little bit of homework” before the rest of the day turns toward the team. “I’ll have either bowling practice or study tables depending on the day,” he says, “then dinner and some downtime.”
Faith also plays a central role in keeping Kehl grounded. He finds spiritual community at Vespers and in quiet moments around campus. “I really enjoy just stopping and looking around now and then,” he says. “Sometimes my teammates and I lie out on Scott Field and look at the stars. It’s really peaceful.”
The Mental Game and Resilience
For Kehl, the mental aspect of the sport is constant—and his faith gives him perspective when challenges arise. “There’s going to be things that happen—you just have to keep moving forward because God’s always in control,” he explains. “You can’t freak out. Jesus had people taunt him all the time, but he kept moving forward.”
That mindset helps him stay calm under pressure. “You’ve got to keep a good head on your shoulders all the time,” he says.
Like his teammate Ruth Fuller, Kehl is grateful for the financial support that allows him to compete and study at GU. He holds several scholarships, including the Panther Scholarship and awards from his hometown. “The donors are taking a big burden off me and allowing me to succeed here,” he says.
Gratitude and Long-Term Vision
Kehl and his teammates are learning more than technique—they’re learning discipline, teamwork, and spiritual resilience. He believes that the mental strength built through bowling will carry him far beyond the lanes, into his biology career and life as a whole.
When asked about his long-term goals outside of sports, his answer reflects the same focus that guides his game plan. “My faith,” he says simply. “That’s what keeps me grounded.”
The Greenville University bowling program is about more than scores—it’s about forming resilient students who can navigate pressure with grace. Joey Kehl’s story reminds us that success here takes daily discipline, hard work, and faith—all made possible by the donors and supporters who invest in students’ journeys of growth and purpose.
