Illinois Wesleyan University Adds Men's Bowling as 30th Intercollegiate Athletic Program

Strategic Insights -

Illinois Wesleyan University has taken another step forward in expanding its athletic programs by announcing the addition of men's bowling as the department's 30th intercollegiate athletic program. Led by experienced coach Bob Baker, the new program will begin competition in the 2026-27 academic year. This development marks the eighth sport added to Illinois Wesleyan's offerings under the leadership of Athletic Director Mike Wagner, who expressed enthusiasm for the new addition, highlighting Baker's qualifications and the potential for the sport to meet the needs of future Titans.

Key Takeaways:

  • Illinois Wesleyan University has added men's bowling as its 30th intercollegiate athletic program, with the program set to begin competition in the 2026-27 academic year.
  • Bob Baker, an experienced coach with a lifelong passion for bowling, has been selected as the inaugural head coach of the Titan men's bowling team.
  • Baker brings a wealth of experience, holding a career-high average of 236, over 70 300-games, and more than 30 800 series to his name.
  • He has nearly five decades worth of experience in the sport and has served as a coach at Morton High School and a staffer for several bowling companies.
  • Baker is a YABA certified coach and was a junior member of Team USA, providing a strong foundation for the new program.
  • The program's aim is not only to build a competitive men's bowling program but to establish a lasting tradition that future Titan bowlers will be proud to carry forward.
  • Interested students can fill out a recruit questionnaire or email Baker directly at rbaker2@iwu.edu to learn more about the program.

Statistics:

  • The new men's bowling program will be the eighth sport added to Illinois Wesleyan's offerings under Athletic Director Mike Wagner's leadership.
  • Chef Baker has over 70 300-games under his belt, marking a significant achievement in the sport.
  • The program aims to establish a lasting tradition, with a focus on building a competitive team and fostering success on the lanes, in the classroom, and in the community.

Sources:

  • Illinois Wesleyan University Athletics news release, October 30
  • Quotes from Mike Wagner and Bob Baker as attributed in the original news release.