Youngstown, Ohio, October 17, 2025
News Summary
Vanderbilt University’s bowling team is gearing up for the start of their new season, set to kick off at the Chelsea Gilliam Penguin Classic. Ranked third in the National Tenpin Coaches Association Preseason Poll, the Commodores aim to build on their impressive legacy, having reached the NCAA Tournament for 19 consecutive years. The team welcomes back three All-Americans and new talent to enhance their competitive edge as they face off against some of the best teams in the nation this season.
Youngstown, Ohio – Vanderbilt University’s bowling team is set to start its 2025-26 season on October 17 at the Chelsea Gilliam Penguin Classic. The Commodores, currently ranked third in the National Tenpin Coaches Association Preseason Poll, will kick off their campaign at the Holiday Bowl, hosted by reigning NCAA champion Youngstown State.
In their previous season, the Commodores reached the NCAA Lansing Regional final, marking their impressive 19th consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance. This consistent performance has set the stage for another promising year as they look to improve upon their previous achievements.
The team returns a strong roster this season, featuring three All-Americans: Alyssa Ballard, a third-team selection in 2022-23; Haley Lindley, who received honorable mention in 2023-24; and Victoria Varano, a notable three-time honoree. Additionally, Vanderbilt has strengthened its lineup by adding transfer Dannielle Henderson, a 2024-25 second-team All-American from Jacksonville State. Freshman Katelyn Abigania, known for winning the 2025 U.S. Amateur championship, will make her collegiate debut at the Penguin Classic, further enhancing the team’s prospects.
Competing alongside the Commodores at the Chelsea Gilliam Classic are some of the top teams in the country, including the number one ranked Jacksonville State, number two Nebraska, and fourth ranked Youngstown State. Other teams participating in the tournament include Alabama A&M, sixth-ranked Arkansas State, and No. 12 Duquesne among others. This makes for a highly competitive environment as the Commodores seek to assert their dominance against the elite of collegiate bowling.
The tournament format for the weekend includes an action-packed schedule. On Friday, there will be five sets of five Baker matches starting at 8:30 a.m. CT. Saturday features five traditional matches beginning at 8:25 a.m., while Sunday will conclude the tournament with a best-of-seven Baker bracket starting at 7:25 a.m. Fans interested in following the action can watch live matches on YouTube and Facebook, with updates available on X and Instagram at @VandyBowling.
In addition to the Chelsea Gilliam Classic, Vanderbilt’s fall schedule includes the Sacred Heart’s Destination Orlando, the Bulldog Classic hosted by Louisiana Tech, and Tulane’s Colonial Lanes Classic. Transitioning into the spring, the season will kick off with Sacred Heart’s Northeast Classic and include the Prairie View A&M Invitational and Nebraska’s Big Red Invitational. Notably, the Commodores will host the Music City Classic from March 6-8, before heading into the postseason with the Conference USA Championships on March 17. Their goal is to make it to the NCAA Tournament for the 20th consecutive time, competing in the NCAA Regional on April 3-4 and aiming for the National Collegiate Bowling Championship scheduled for April 10-11.
Vanderbilt’s talented roster, coupled with their competitive schedule, brings high expectations as they embark on a new season, determined to add to their legacy in collegiate bowling.
FAQ
When does Vanderbilt bowling begin its 2025-26 season?
Vanderbilt bowling will kick off their 2025-26 season on Oct. 17 at the Chelsea Gilliam Penguin Classic.
What is Vanderbilt’s ranking in the National Tenpin Coaches Association Preseason Poll?
Vanderbilt bowling is ranked third in the National Tenpin Coaches Association Preseason Poll.
Who are the All-Americans returning to the Vanderbilt bowling team?
The Commodores return three All-Americans: Alyssa Ballard (third-team selection in 2022-23), Haley Lindley (honorable mention in 2023-24), and Victoria Varano (three-time honoree).
What additional player has Vanderbilt added to their roster?
Vanderbilt has added 2024-25 second-team All-American transfer, Dannielle Henderson, from Jacksonville State.
What tournaments will Vanderbilt participate in during the upcoming season?
Vanderbilt’s fall tournaments include Sacred Heart’s Destination Orlando, the Bulldog Classic hosted by Louisiana Tech, and Tulane’s Colonial Lanes Classic, while the spring season starts with Sacred Heart’s Northeast Classic, followed by the Prairie View A&M Invitational and Nebraska’s Big Red Invitational.
Key Features Overview Chart
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Season Start Date | October 17, 2025 |
| First Tournament | Chelsea Gilliam Penguin Classic |
| Current Ranking | 3rd in National Tenpin Coaches Association Preseason Poll |
| Highlights from Last Season | Advanced to NCAA Lansing Regional Final; 19th consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance |
| Returnees | Three All-Americans: Alyssa Ballard, Haley Lindley, Victoria Varano |
| New Additions | Dannielle Henderson (transfer) and Katelyn Abigania (freshman) |
| Live Match Availability | Matches available on YouTube and Facebook; updates on X and Instagram @VandyBowling |
| Spring Season Start | Sacred Heart’s Northeast Classic |
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Additional Resources
- Vanderbilt to Face Nation’s Best in Season Opener
- Commodore Bowling Schedule Announced
- Vanderbilt Finishes in Sixth Place at Storm Flyer Classic
- Wikipedia: Bowling
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bowling
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