The 2025-26 season for the University of Central Missouri’s women’s bowling team began in October and will continue until April. This year’s bowling team is predominantly composed of freshmen and is the most freshman-heavy the team has been since the 2016-17 season. 

  “This season is definitely different. We have 10 new freshmen compared to just two last year, and they outnumber the six returners. It’s a new challenge and we’re trying to work through it, but it’s a good dynamic,” said Emma Holly, one of two seniors on the team.

  Ron Holmes is the head coach of Jennies Bowling. This season is his 25th season as the varsity head coach and his 35th season overall coaching bowling at UCM. He describes the current team as eager and full of promise.

  “Our team is very diverse, both in terms of talent and style,” said Ron Holmes. “That diversity benefits us tremendously. The players are eager to listen and learn, and we’re introducing a lot of new concepts to them right now. While it takes time to process, their enthusiasm and willingness to adapt are evident. For many, this experience is new given their varied backgrounds,” Holmes said. 

  According to Sydney Lee, a freshman on the team, the team is a supportive environment where experienced and new members help each other, especially when someone is struggling. Lee appreciates the learning and rebuilding process.

  “It’s awesome that there are more freshmen because it gives us a chance to rebuild and regroup. We’re able to come back stronger and ready to compete because we’re learning each other’s games and dynamics, and working off of that to help one another,” said Lee.

  Senior player Cynthia Phillips believes it is beneficial to have more freshmen, so they do not have to worry about who will be there in the future for the team to evolve. 

  “I think it’s nice to know that the program is still evolving and growing. The freshmen that we came here with have great potential, and for them, over these next four years, there are going to be great opportunities to grow,” said Phillips.

  So far this season, the Jennies have gotten off to a strong start, going undefeated in their opening season by sweeping Central Methodist and edging out Western Illinois in a tight match. Looking ahead, UCM is scheduled to participate in the VUU Collegiate Invitational on Oct. 31 to Nov. 2 in Midlothian, Virginia, and they will also compete in several marquee tournaments and dual meets through the winter and spring.