The sounds of bowling pins crashing to the ground and friends chatting over free pizza fills the halls of the recreation center during a monthly bowling tournament held by Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR), on Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton, July 18.

Matthew Garvin, the mastermind behind the monthly bowling tournament and competitor in the nights festivities, was happy with the turnout during the event.

"I try to do a bowling tournament once a month," said Garvin, Afloat MWR director. "We get anywhere between six and 15 teams when we hold these bowling tournaments."

Though the overall event focused on morale building and having a good time with friends, competitive spirits ran high.

"After the first game starts, things start to get a little heated between the teams," said Garvin. "It starts to get really competitive. I think that helps the Sailors blow off some steam."

In addition to the competitive spirit, the participants also bonded with each other.

"Things like this help us bond as a division," said Information Systems Technician 3rd Class Alejandra Navarro. "It also helps us relieve stress from things that happen in our everyday lives and build up morale within our division."

Navarro wasn't the only person bonding with friends and coworkers. Airman Dalton Lago spent the night with not just friends and coworkers, but with people that he considers family.

"I'm out here with friends, but I consider them family," said Lago. "So, I guess you could say I'm out here with my family."

MWR plans on hosting more bowling tournaments in the future. Garvin expects turnout to continue increasing each month.

"I'm hoping to get 20 teams next time," said Garvin. "If we get more teams I can start hosting these at off base bowling facilities."

Navy MWRs provide active-duty Sailors and their families with recreational, social and community activities aimed at improving their overall well-being.

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