Courtesy of LA Tech Athletic Communications
No. 7 Louisiana Tech captured its sixth consecutive SWIBC II Tournament title Sunday behind an MVP performance from Arianna Araujo.
The Bulldogs totaled 5,282 pins to claim the team title, while Araujo led the individual standings with a tournament-best 185.33 average over six games.
“I couldn’t be prouder of how this team fought through an incredibly demanding weekend,” Tech head coach Matt Nantais said. “When an oil pattern forces you to completely change your game plan and rely on your spare equipment just to keep the ball on the lane, it tests your mental toughness.”
Araujo opened the tournament with a 211, the third-highest individual game among all bowlers, and was the only competitor in the field to average at least 180 pins.
The third-year Bulldog’s performance earned her tournament MVP honors.
“Huge congratulations to Arianna for an incredible performance,” Nantais said. “Earning Tournament MVP on a pattern that tough proves just how special of a competitor she is.”
Kylee Trexler finished second among the Bulldogs and 17th overall, averaging 175.6 over five games. The fourth-year Bulldog recorded her best score of the tournament with a 187 in the final game.
Juliana Kerrigan also provided one of the tournament’s top performances, rolling a 231 in her third game. It was the highest individual game by any bowler in the tournament.
Nantais said the Bulldogs still have areas to improve as they prepare for their next competition.
“Our physical execution has room to grow before we head to Tulane next week, but our team chemistry and mutual support were off the charts,” Nantais said.
Louisiana Tech returns to action Friday through Sunday at the Colonel Classic in Harahan, Louisiana. The tournament is hosted by Tulane.
