INDIANAPOLIS – After a historic 2026 campaign, the Newman women's bowling team has been selected as the preseason favorite to win the 2027 Great Lakes Valley Conference championship, the league office announced Wednesday.

The Jets received all seven possible first-place votes in the GLVC Preseason Coaches Poll, totaling 49 points to earn the top spot. Newman also enters the season ranked No. 12 in the National Tenpin Coaches Association (NTCA) Preseason Coaches Poll.

A year ago, Newman captured the program's first GLVC championship, becoming the first associate member in conference history to win the league title outright. The Jets followed that success with their first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance, advancing to the Arlington Regional and finishing third.

Head coach Billy Murphy returns for his 24th season at the helm after earning both GLVC Coach of the Year and NTCA Division II Coach of the Year honors in 2026.

Newman brings back a strong core from last year's championship squad, led by Claire Jacobson. The reigning GLVC Freshman of the Year was a First Team All-GLVC selection and earned NTCA All-America Honorable Mention recognition during her standout freshman season.

The Jets also return All-GLVC Honorable Mention performers Paighton Crumley and Ashley Soto, providing valuable experience and leadership as Newman looks to defend its conference title and make another run on the national stage.

Preseason Rankings
1. Newman 49 (7)
2. McKendree 40 (1)
3. Maryville 37
4. Central Missouri 31
5. Oklahoma Christian 25
6. Lewis 20
7. Quincy 12
8. Indianapolis 10