MACOMB, IL -  The Western Illinois women's bowling team wrapped up its first NCAA competition of the 2025–26 campaign with a 15th-place finish at the Chelsea Gilliam Penguin Classic, hosted by Youngstown State at Holiday Bowl in Youngstown, Ohio. The Leathernecks went 6-7 overall across Baker and traditional match play, finishing with 11,750 total pins and a 172.8 team average over 68 games.

Western Illinois opened the weekend with a strong showing in Baker play, earning wins over Duquesne (900–827), Coppin State (882–878), and Alabama A&M (902–871). The team also picked up a traditional-format win over Walsh (868–803) before advancing into bracket play on Sunday. In the bracket rounds, the Leathernecks earned a key victory over Alabama A&M (1,172–1,161) and later defeated the Bulldogs again (1,035–1,006) to secure their final placement. Individually, Jaydyn Hunting led the Leathernecks with an impressive weekend performance, rolling a 903 series (180.6 average) to place 47th overall in the individual standings. Cassidy Williams followed closely behind with an 870 total (174.0 average), while Melina Eresbey and Heather Walker contributed scores of 837 (167.4 avg) and 836 (167.2 avg).

The Leathernecks will return to action on October 31st when they head to the Windy City Halloween Classic for their second event of the season.

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