Spires Roll out New Traditions, Welcome Bowling Teams and Varsity Band

During the last decade, the University of Saint Mary Athletic Department has seen unprecedented growth. New teams, new facilities, and a growing student population have helped the Spires become a force in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics.

In the 2021-22 academic year, Saint Mary will add more students to its rosters with the roll out of men’s and women’s bowling and the USM Varsity Band.

“We look forward to adding these new programs,” Vice President for Athletics Rob Miller said. “Increasing opportunities for students has been essential to USM’s growth, and our programs keep the campus community active and vibrant.”

Chris Beall will lead the men’s and women’s bowling teams as the inaugural head coach. He brings close to 25 years of bowling experience and is known for his recruiting efforts. The teams will train and compete at Crown Lanes Bowling Alley, which is located on Spruce Street in Leavenworth.

The USM Varsity Band will play at home contests, and competitive scholarships are available.

“We are excited to add the USM Varsity Band to our campus community,” Director of Music David Vance said. “Saint Mary already has many lively and long-lasting traditions. We look forward to strengthening the USM spirit and providing new experiences for musicians, student-athletes, and fans.”

USM now offers men’s and women’s swimming, wrestling, basketball, bowling, soccer, lacrosse, cross country, and track and field, as well as volleyball, football, baseball, softball, flag football, esports, cheerleading, and dance.