MACOMB,IL- Western Illinois women's bowling continued its strong start to the 2025–26 campaign, earning a fourth-place finish at the Warhawk Classic hosted by the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater this weekend.

The Leathernecks competed against a competitive field that included Newman, McKendree, Wright State, and the host University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, the WIU Leathernecks posted a total pinfall of 11,094 over 65 games, averaging 170.7 pins per game.

Western opened with solid Baker play, rolling a high of 922 twice during the early sessions and showing consistency throughout the traditional matches. The Leathernecks advanced through the bracket rounds, ultimately securing fourth place behind Newman, McKendree, and Wright State.

Leading the way individually for the Purple and Gold was Angela Steinke, who finished 11th overall with a five-game total of 895 (179.0 average). Cassidy Williams followed with a 873 series (174.6 average), while Melina Eresbey contributed a strong four-game effort totaling 712 (178.0 average). Heather Walker added a 661 series, highlighted by a 196 game, and Jaydyn Hunting and Skylar Huber each provided key scores in team play.

The Leathernecks' best team showing came in traditional match play, where they defeated Marian University 900–839 and notched other competitive efforts against nationally ranked McKendree and Newman.

Western Illinois returns to action Oct. 17–19 at the Penguin Classic in Youngstown, OH.