|
3/9/2006 Vanderbilt’s bowling team has jumped to fifth in the latest National Tenpins Coaches Association (NTCA) rankings. The Commodores had debuted in seventh position in the first national poll a month ago. Nebraska continues to lead the poll with Farleigh Dickinson second, New Jersey City third and Central Missouri fourth. The Commodores have had improving performances since the new year, placing fourth in a large field in Las Vegas, fourth at the Morgan State Invitational and just last week averaging 1,055 pins per game (1 211 individual average) in finishing second at the Holiday Classic in Alabama. In the process, Vanderbilt topped a number of traditional bowling powers. The addition of Mandy Keily has been significant to the Commodores’ improved fortunes. The Brighton, Colo., left-hander transferred to Vanderbilt last fall after spending her freshman year at Colorado State University, which did not have a varsity bowling program. However, complicated NCAA transfer policies mandated that she sit out what amounted to the entire fall season. “Anytime you are seeing team improvement there are several factors at work,” says Coach John Williamson. “We have had excellent practice sessions, for instance. We have improved our ability to hit targets and as a result we are having far fewer single pin opens. This has been a team willing to work hard and that hard work is paying off as we become more and more competitive.” Williamson has also been very pleased with his team’s chemistry. “We have grown a lot during the year as a team unit,” he notes. “We are an unselfish group that is working for one goal. That might not seem too important in a sport such as bowling but I think it is. We pull for each other and we don’t worry about who is getting the credit at the moment. During this season, everyone on the team has made a contribution and to continue our headway that needs to stay that way.” While not wanting to damper the enthusiasm of a young program gaining ground, Williamson is still reserved about the team’s accomplishments. “I’ve mentioned before that we are pleased to be recognized in the rankings and it is nice to win trophies at these tournaments instead of coming home empty-handed,” he says. “However, the minute we become satisfied with a fifth place ranking or a second place trophy is the minute we become stale. We have very high goals here and being a bride’s maid isn’t one of them.” Vanderbilt plays host to its own Columbia 300 Music City Classic March 18 and 19 in its next competition. The event will take place at Pla Mor Lanes, located near 100 Oaks Mall. |
