HUMBLE, Texas -- Florida A&M's bowling program delivered a weekend defined by resilience, competitive depth, and promising development at the 2026 SWAC West Round Up, hosted by Prairie View A&M from January 16–18. Competing against one of the deepest fields in the Southwestern Athletic Conference, the Rattlers finished 6–8 in match play, gaining critical conference experience while showcasing a young roster that continues to trend upward.

Team Performance: Battling Through the Gauntlet

Florida A&M closed the event sixth overall, posting 11,756 total pins across 70 games for a 167.9 team average, narrowly trailing several veteran-heavy programs. While the final standings do not fully reflect the competitiveness of the Rattlers' weekend, FAMU consistently stayed within striking distance of conference contenders and earned notable wins that highlighted both grit and momentum.

The Rattlers recorded key victories over:

• Prairie View A&M (841–801)
• Alabama A&M (829–786)
• Grambling State (877–571)
• Jackson State (893–874)
• Southern (905–865)

Each win reflected Florida A&M's ability to respond under pressure, particularly in late matches when physical and mental fatigue set in for much of the field.

Individual Excellence: Rattlers Making Noise

Florida A&M's lineup featured multiple bowlers who delivered standout performances, particularly among the conference's strongest freshman class.

Briana Buezon emerged as one of the Rattlers' top performers, finishing 13th overall individually and seventh among all freshmen, averaging 180.67 over 12 games. Her ability to produce high scores in key moments provided stability throughout the weekend and placed her firmly among the SWAC's rising talents.

Mary Terebesi delivered consistent production across 13 games, totaling 2,202 pins for a 169.38 average, while anchoring several competitive matchups. Alieenah Rodriguez added strong depth, posting 1,818 pins and a 165.27 average, frequently stepping up in critical frames.

Freshmen continued to play a pivotal role for the Rattlers, with Allysa Metellus, Bree Stewart, Nakeelah Townsend, and Layla Holtapple all contributing valuable games as Florida A&M leaned heavily on its youth against experienced conference opponents.

Competitive Context: Building Toward the Peak

The SWAC West Round Up featured a balanced and highly competitive field, with Jackson State claiming the top spot at 12–2, followed closely by Alabama State and Texas Southern at 9–5. Florida A&M's ability to secure six wins against this caliber of competition underscores the program's steady progression and upward trajectory.

Just as importantly, the Rattlers' narrow margins in several losses indicate a team that is closing the gap and gaining confidence as the season progresses.