Bowlers second in inaugural poll

Oct. 25, 2011

Maryland-Eastern Shore and Vanderbilt finished the 2010-11 season in the national championship game and the two perennial powers top the first poll of the 2011-12 bowling season.

The Hawks, despite the loss of three All-Americans, garnered 11 first-place votes and 514 total points to edge the Commodores, who had five first-place votes and 504 points from the National Ten Pin Coaches Association members.

“We are humbled to be considered so highly at this early point in the season,” said Vanderbilt Coach John Williamson.”I believe the voting is more a reflection on how last year ended than a solid vote on this season. We have a long, long way to go before we can actually earn our poll position.”

Vanderbilt got its season off to a strong start Saturday, winning 14th-rated Alabama A & M’s Tri-Meet without losing a game. In starting 5-0, the Commodores showed a veteran lineup with the trio of Brittni Hamilton, Jessica Earnest and Samantha Hesley along with last year regular Sarah O’Brien and a handful of bright freshmen and other upperclassmen angling for playing time.

Fairleigh Dickinson, which also suffered graduation losses from last year’s powerful team, was rated third in the opening poll. The Commodores will travel to FDU’s Invitational Nov. 2 in what will be their first tournament action.

Other schools receiving votes (minimum two ballots):
Bethune-Cookman, Bowie St., Fayetteville St., Hampton, Long Island, Monmouth, Morgan St.