Nashville, TN, October 5, 2025
News Summary
The National Tenpin Coaches Association has ranked the Vanderbilt bowling team third in its preseason poll, receiving recognition with seven first-place votes. With top competitors like Jacksonville State and Nebraska leading the rankings, Vanderbilt aims to qualify for its 20th NCAA Tournament appearance. The team features a strong roster, including returning All-Americans and promising newcomers. Their season begins at the Chelsea Gilliam Penguin Classic, highlighting their competitive spirit and aspirations for success in the upcoming bowling season.
Nashville, TN – The National Tenpin Coaches Association has announced the preseason poll for the upcoming collegiate bowling season, ranking the Vanderbilt bowling team third overall. The Commodores received seven first-place votes, showcasing the strong recognition they have within the league as they prepare for the competitive season ahead.
Leading the poll are top-ranked Jacksonville State and No. 2 Nebraska, while defending national champion Youngstown State and 2025 CUSA champion Wichita State round out the top five teams. With such formidable competition in the rankings, Vanderbilt is poised to make a strong impact as they aim for their 20th NCAA Tournament appearance in 2026.
The Vanderbilt bowling team returns a solid core of talent, including three All-Americans from the previous season. Senior Victoria Varano, a three-time All-American and two-time All-Conference USA honoree, is expected to lead the charge alongside junior Alyssa Ballard, who achieved third-team All-American status in the 2022-23 season and was recognized as the Southland Bowling League Newcomer of the Year. Additionally, the roster includes Haley Lindley, an All-America honorable mention from 2023-24, and Sydney Bohn, noted for her commendable performance as a member of the 2024-25 NTCA All-Rookie First Team.
Enhancing the team’s talent pool will be junior Dannielle Henderson, a transfer from NCAA runner-up Jacksonville State. Henderson brings experience and honors, having earned second-team All-America and All-CUSA accolades during her time at Jacksonville State. The Commodores also welcome a promising group of newcomers, including 2025 U.S. Amateur champion Katelyn Abigania, two-time Junior Team USA member Avery Domaguin, and three-time Dexter High School All-American Tamia Yeager.
In the previous 2024-25 season, Vanderbilt achieved significant success, winning two regular-season tournament titles: the Prairie View A&M Invitational and the North Carolina A&T Stallings Invitational. They also made their mark by qualifying for the NCAA Tournament for the 19th consecutive year, advancing to the Lansing Regional final before being defeated by Wichita State.
The Commodores’ season kicks off on October 17 at the Chelsea Gilliam Penguin Classic in Youngstown, Ohio. Vanderbilt’s schedule includes nine regular-season tournaments, featuring three new events that promise to enrich their competitive experience. Notably, the team will host the Music City Classic at home, scheduled for March 6-8.
Postseason action for Vanderbilt is set to begin on March 17, with the Conference USA Championships taking place in Harahan, Louisiana. The Commodores aim to extend their NCAA Tournament streak to 20 consecutive years, with regional competition scheduled for April 3-4. Finally, the National Collegiate Bowling Championship is slated for April 10-11 at Yorktown Lanes in Wickliffe, Ohio, marking an exciting culmination to the season.
Vanderbilt bowling last achieved Final Four status in 2023 when they celebrated their third national championship, setting the stage for another exciting season ahead with high expectations and competitive aspirations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vanderbilt bowling team’s preseason ranking?
The National Tenpin Coaches Association ranked the Vanderbilt bowling team third in its preseason poll.
Who are some of the returning All-Americans for Vanderbilt?
Vanderbilt returns three All-Americans including Victoria Varano, Alyssa Ballard, and Haley Lindley.
When does Vanderbilt bowling’s season begin?
The 2025-26 season for Vanderbilt bowling kicks off on October 17 at the Chelsea Gilliam Penguin Classic in Youngstown, Ohio.
What are the postseason dates for Vanderbilt bowling?
Postseason action for Vanderbilt starts on March 17 with the Conference USA Championships, and the NCAA Regional is scheduled for April 3-4.
Key Features of Vanderbilt Bowling Team
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Preseason Ranking | Third in National Tenpin Coaches Association poll |
| Returning All-Americans | Victoria Varano, Alyssa Ballard, Haley Lindley |
| Opening Match | October 17 at Chelsea Gilliam Penguin Classic |
| Postseason Championships | Conference USA Championships (March 17); NCAA Regional (April 3-4) |
| Season Goals | Aiming for 20th NCAA Tournament appearance |
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Additional Resources
- Vanderbilt Commodores Ranked Preseason No. 3
- Wikipedia: Vanderbilt Commodores
- Vanderbilt Bowling Faces Elimination at NCAA Regionals
- Google Search: Vanderbilt bowl team
- Vanderbilt Bowling Conference USA Tournament Run Ends
- Google Scholar: Vanderbilt bowl team
- Vanderbilt Bowling 2024 Season Preview
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bowling
- Vanderbilt Bowling Signs Three
- Google News: Vanderbilt bowl 2025
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