Jacksonville, AL – The Jacksonville State University bowling team continues to make waves in its inaugural season, as the Gamecocks earned a remarkable achievement on Wednesday by clinching the No. 1 overall seed in the NCAA Championship.
With an impressive record of 97-23, the No. 1 Gamecocks have dominated the bowling lanes, culminating in their recent triumph as the first-ever Conference USA champions. Now, they set their sights on the national stage as they prepare to compete in the Pittsburgh Regional on April 5-6 at the AMF Mt. Lebanon Lanes.
The regional competition will feature a formidable lineup, including Mercyhurst, No. 8 Duquesne, and No. 15 Maryland Eastern Shore, alongside the Gamecocks. Jax State’s journey begins with a faceoff against Mercyhurst in the first round on April 5 at 9 a.m. ET.
Should they emerge victorious, they’ll advance to the next round to take on the winner of the Duquesne/UMES match later that day at 3 p.m. ET. The road to the Final Four in Allen Park, Michigan, on April 12-13 beckons for the team that conquers the double-elimination bracket.
The ascent of the Jax State bowling program has been nothing short of extraordinary. Just over a year since the announcement of bowling becoming the university’s 18th varsity sport, the Gamecocks have skyrocketed to prominence in the collegiate bowling scene.
Under the guidance of head coach Shannon O’Keefe, a four-time national champion, the team has showcased its dominance by clinching victory in nearly every event they’ve competed in this inaugural season. The recent triumph in the CUSA title tournament, where they swept through the competition, underscores their prowess on the lanes.
Despite being a first-year program, the Gamecocks boast a roster brimming with talent and experience. With seven student-athletes who have each secured at least one national title, the team is well-equipped to tackle the challenges of the NCAA Championship.
As they embark on their quest for glory, the Gamecocks are determined to etch their names in history by bringing home Jacksonville State University’s first national championship at the Division I level. With their sights set on the ultimate prize, the team is poised to make their mark on the lanes and secure a place in the annals of collegiate bowling history.
