Kentucky Wesleyan College has suspended the men's and women's bowling programs for the foreseeable future effective with the end of this academic year.

With the recent departure of the programs' fourth coach in the past four years, Kentucky Wesleyan College had the chance to evaluate the reality of sustaining these two programs in an ever-growing competitive environment. Men's bowling was re-classified as a self-funded club sport in the fall of 2023 along with other sport reductions announced in October. It was hoped that the program would be able to fundraise and become self-sustaining; however, this goal has not been realized.  

"I have enjoyed our teams, learned so much about this game and admire the skill level it takes for this sport," Shook stated. "That said, as we ended the season, we determined that the decision to suspend to the programs was the healthy choice for our students and Kentucky Wesleyan College."  

"Students are the foundation of the success at Kentucky Wesleyan College and will be supported in every possible way in the days, weeks, and months ahead. It is our sincere wish that the impacted student-athletes elect to remain a part of our community and earn their Kentucky Wesleyan College degree, but we will actively support whatever path they choose."

The Panther Athletics Department will continue its sponsorship of its 13 NCAA sport programs including football, men's and women's basketball, volleyball, men and women's soccer, men's wrestling, softball, baseball, men's and women's golf, and men's and women's tennis.

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Important notes for the impacted student-athletes:

• For all impacted students on athletic scholarship, Kentucky Wesleyan College will honor those commitments to enable them to graduate as scheduled.
• All student-athletes who elect to remain at Kentucky Wesleyan College will continue to have access to the full complement of academic support and medical services, if they remain in good standing under Kentucky Wesleyan College rules and that circumstances allow.
• For those who wish to transfer to other institutions to complete their college athletics eligibility, we will be available to answer questions and provide advice on the necessary next steps.