The #24 Valparaiso University bowling team returned to competition for the first time in over a month on Friday, as the Crusaders competed in the first of three days of action at the Mid-Winter Invitational from Jonesboro, Ark.

How It Happened

• Competing in the five-game baker format on Friday, the Crusaders’ day got off to a rough start. Valpo dropped a narrow 900-888 decision to Drury, and then fell to a pair of nationally-ranked foes in #23 UAB (887-749) and #10 Maryland Eastern Shore (996-871).
• Valpo earned its first victory in its fourth match of the tournament, taking down Maryville by a 934-887 final.
• The Crusaders then ended the day on a winning note, finishing the day with a 2-3 record thanks to an 851-738 victory over Lincoln.
• Valpo’s pin count of 4,293 over the five matches on Friday positioned the Crusaders in 11th place following the first day of action, just 13 pins out of 10th position. McKendree leads the team standings with 4,999 pins.

Next Up

The Crusaders (31-22) continue play from Jonesboro on Saturday morning, as they compete in five traditional matches over the course of the day.