NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Vanderbilt bowling, ranked third in the National Tenpin Coaches Association Preseason Poll, will kick off its 2025-26 slate Friday at the Chelsea Gilliam Penguin Classic, hosted by reigning NCAA champion Youngstown State at Holiday Bowl in Youngstown, Ohio.
During the 2024-25 season, the Commodores advanced to the NCAA Lansing Regional final, making the program’s 19th consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance.
Vandy returns three All-Americans to its squad, Alyssa Ballard, a third-team selection in 2022-23, Haley Lindley, an honorable mention in 2023-24, and three-time honoree Victoria Varano. The Dores also added 2024-25 second-team All-American Dannielle Henderson to their squad as a transfer from 2025 NCAA runner-up Jacksonville State. Katelyn Abigania, the 2025 U.S. Amateur champion, will make her collegiate debut for the Commodores in Youngstown.
Competing Teams
The nation’s top four teams will compete at the Chelsea Gilliam Classic, Jacksonville State, Nebraska, Vanderbilt and Youngstown State, ranked first through fourth, respectively. Additional competing teams include Alabama A&M, No. 6 Arkansas State, Coppin State, No. 12 Duquesne, Lewis, Mercyhurst, No. 14 Mount St. Mary’s, No. 25 Niagara, Sacred Heart, Saint Anselm, No. 21 Valparaiso, Walsh, Western Illinois and No. 20 Wright State.
Format
Friday – five sets of five Baker matches beginning at 8:30 a.m. CT
Saturday – five traditional matches beginning at 8:25 a.m.
Sunday – best-of-seven Baker bracket beginning at 7:25 a.m.
Keeping up with the Commodores
Fans can watch the Dores’ matches live on YouTube and Facebook and follow Vanderbilt bowling on X and Instagram at @VandyBowling for updates.
