Vermilion, OH – Bailey Piwinski, a senior at Vermilion High School, has officially committed to Huntington University in Indiana, where she will continue her bowling career at the collegiate level. She has been awarded a bowling scholarship, which will be reevaluated annually throughout her four years at the university. Piwinski is the first female from Vermilion to be awarded to athletic scholarship for bowling.
Piwinski has been a multi-sport athlete throughout high school, competing in bowling, softball, majorettes, and golf, while also being an active member of FFA (Future Farmers of America). Her success on the lanes has established her as one of the top bowlers in the SBC Girls Lake Division, where she ranks 4th overall with a 175.1 average.
A Standout High School Career
Since her freshman year, Piwinski has been a dedicated athlete and competitor. She bowled for all four years of high school and recorded a 425 series high this season, earning recognition as a First Team All-Conference selection.
In addition to bowling, she played softball every year and was a majorette during her sophomore, junior, and senior years. She also competed in golf from her freshman through junior years. Her involvement in FFA further reflects her commitment to extracurricular activities beyond sports.
Dominating the Stillman Cup
One of Piwinski’s most impressive performances this season came during the Stillman Cup match against Firelands, where she helped the Lady Sailors reclaim the championship. She bowled games of 204 and 221, achieving a 425 series, which contributed to Vermilion’s 2136–1716 victory.
Committing to Huntington University
Piwinski received multiple scholarship offers, including opportunities from Mount Vernon Nazarene University and a college in Missouri, but ultimately chose Huntington University in Indiana. Located just 25 minutes from Fort Wayne, Huntington University provided both a strong bowling program and academic opportunities that aligned with her goals.
She met with the university’s bowling coach and was awarded an athletic scholarship, which will be reevaluated each year based on performance. She has also received an academic scholarship from Huntington University, further supporting her education.
Piwinski plans to major in Criminal Justice and Forensics, pursuing a career in investigative studies while continuing to compete in bowling at the collegiate level.
Finishing Her High School Career Strong
Piwinski will finish her final season of high school softball this spring. This will mark the conclusion of her high school athletic career.
Her mother confirmed that this will be her last season competing in high school sports. “That will pretty much end her high school athletic career,” she said.
While it’s sad to say goodbye to one chapter, the next chapter always awaits.
Signing Day and Interview with Huntington Bowling Coach Mike Shockey
On Monday, at Lucy’s Bar and Grill inside Lake Erie Lanes—where she has spent countless hours both working in the restaurant and bowling on the adjacent lanes—Piwinski signed her letter of intent with Huntington University. She was surrounded by family, supporters, Vermilion Sailors Athletic Director Andy Stillman, and High School Principal Jennifer Benagle. It was a special night for one of Vermilion’s own, marking the start of her next chapter.
interview with Coach Mike Shockey.
Video GallerySailor Athletics Bids Their Farewell
Vermilion Sailor Athletics Director Andy Stillman had some warm words to share for Bailey.
“We are so very excited about Bailey’s next chapter and after talking to the family and Huntington’s head coach, it seems that it is a great fit for her. Bailey was a huge part of our bowling program over the past four years and finished off with an undefeated season and a conference championship. Quite a way to end a great career. We are all now Huntington Forester Bowling Fans! Go get em Bailey!”
A Bright Future Ahead
With her commitment to Huntington University, Piwinski is set to continue excelling both academically and athletically. Her dedication and talent have positioned her as a role model for younger athletes in the Vermilion community.
As she moves forward in her collegiate career, Piwinski’s achievements serve as an example of perseverance and hard work. Her journey from a standout high school athlete to a college-bound bowler is a reflection of years of dedication. Thank you Bailey! We all look forward to following your college career with the livestreams Huntington has for its bowling events and we wish you the best!
