The Valparaiso bowling team jumped eight spots to 12th in the nation in the National Tenpin Coaches Association (NTCA) December 2009 poll, as released today.

The Crusaders tallied a total of 180 points on the 19 ballots to rise eight spots, tied for the highest jump from the preseason poll to the December poll.  In its inaugural season of competition, Valpo holds a 27-21 record over its first four tournaments, highlighted by a 4th place finish in its most recent outing at the Hawk Classic.  The Crusaders are off until mid-January, when they compete at the Mid-Winter Classic in Cabot, Ark.

“I am very pleased with our progress the first semester of the season as a new program,” said Crusader head coach Stephen Anthony.  “I believe our team has learned a lot in the four events we have participated in and I'm looking forward to the second semester.  We will again attend several major events and I certainly look forward to the competition that we will face in the second half of the season.  I appreciate the respect that the other coaches have shown our program and I will continue to stress with our student-athletes the responsibility we have to represent Valpo and the community in a professional manner.”