Nov. 12, 2011
Reach Bowling Contact Michael Stambaugh for more details - 386.481.2278 -
GREENSBORO, N.C. – Bethune-Cookman bowling went undefeated to open the first MEAC Southern Divisional tournament to earn an early lead in conference play on Saturday. The Lady Wildcats swept the opening day of competition, 5-0 with underclassmen making a big statement.
“It's good strong start for us,” said Head Coach Tony O'Neal. “I feel like the team is finally gelling and feeling comfortable with one another.”
Led by Felicia Baker in Traditional Team play, who finished second individually with a 191 average and high game of 220, the Lady Wildcats collected the perfect record, starting with predicted divisional leader Norfolk State (953-935) and closing out with rival Florida A&M (851-762).
Baker tallied four of five matches with pinfall at 190 of above.
Baker wasn't the only freshman to step up, Daytona Beach native Rachel Moore collected a 179 average to finish 10th on the day, logging the team's high game of 224. Junior Staci Hilliard locked in the 11th individual finish with a 175.4.
“I am very happy to see them starting to settle in and bowl to their ability,” said O'Neal of his newcomers' performance, “they are starting to understand the college game and make proper adjustments.”
The Lady Wildcats topped both teams picked ahead of them in the preseason to open the tournament.
“It's always good to come up with a strong start,” said O'Neal, “but you've still got to maintain and finish strong.”
It's a great start to the MEAC season, but the Lady Wildcats now take on Baker play against the Southern division teams, starting on Sunday morning, looking to keep the same type of consistency going and finish out the tournament playing well to reap the benefits of the opening day.
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