The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater women’s bowling team earned national recognition for its performance during the 2025-26 season, highlighted by multiple individual honors and top statistical finishes announced by the National Tenpin Coaches Association (NTCA).
As a team, the Warhawks led Division III in Baker double percentage at 42.20%, showcasing their consistency in team-based competition.
Freshman Elizabeth Vanderhei headlined the individual honors, leading DIII in both Baker (49.70%) and traditional frame average (19.29). Vanderhei’s performance earned her NTCA Division III Rookie of the Year recognition.
“Elizabeth Vanderhei winning Division III Rookie of the year is an amazing accomplishment that speaks to her passion for the game,” head coach Becca Hagerman said. “She’s a great teammate and player who will continue to improve during her time here as a Warhawk.”
The ability this team has to place multiple athletes among national statistical leaders highlights the depth of the program and its consistency throughout the season. Strong performances in both Baker and traditional formats allowed the team to remain competitive against some of the top programs in the country.
That balance between individual success and team execution has been a key factor in UW-Whitewater’s continued growth. With contributors across the lineup stepping up in different moments, the Warhawks were able to build momentum as the season progressed and achieve high level postseason play.
Looking ahead, the combination of experienced returners and emerging talent positions UW-Whitewater to build on this year’s success. With national recognition already established, the program will aim to carry that momentum into next season and continue its presence among Division III’s top teams.
Darwin led Division III in strike percentage at 44.80%, adding to the team’s list of national statistical leaders.
“I’m really proud of what we accomplished this season,” senior Zoey Darwin said. “Individually, it means a lot to be recognized, but that is just a reflection of how well our team and coaching staff have been all year and all of the work we’ve put in day in and day out. Being able to represent Whitewater over the past four years and finish my career this way is something I’m grateful for.”
The Warhawks also competed at the Intercollegiate Team Championships Sectional Qualifier in Addison, Illinois, where they placed fifth against a competitive field. Senior Emma Johnson and freshman Jacqueline Knowles led UW-W in the Intercollegiate Singles Sectional Qualifier, each finishing among the top 20 individually. Vanderhei and Darwin also placed among the top 50 in the 244-bowler field.
“Overall, we knew this year was going to take a lot of work to accomplish what we did last season,” Hagerman said. “Our team worked hard, learned a lot and showed determination in situations where they were asked to give more. I’m extremely proud of how we competed and how the players continue to show up for one another.”
With multiple national leaders and a strong showing in postseason competition, UW-Whitewater capped off a successful season and continues to build momentum for the future.
