Warriors Finish Third While Leading Field in Pinfall at NAIA West Open

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Midland University returned to the lanes this past weekend for the first time since Dec. 21, 2025, competing in the NAIA West Open in Lawrence, Kansas. Despite recording the highest total pinfall among the 16 teams in the field, the Warriors finished third after posting a 7-3 overall record.

Individually, Cephus Beatty led the way for Midland, finishing third among 162 competitors. Beatty rolled four games over 200, including two above 230, totaling 1,079 pins with a 215.8 average.

Zachary Wentzel was Midland's next-highest finisher, placing 19th overall. Wentzel opened the event with games of 181 and 187 before closing strong with scores of 235, 228, and 195, finishing with a total pinfall of 1,026 and a 205.2 average.

Nolan Pepper finished 30th overall after bowling a personal event-high game of 268 and recording a total pinfall of 1,003 with a 200.6 average. Kaeden White followed closely behind in 39th place, opening the event with three games of 200 or better before finishing with a total pinfall of 981 and a 196.2 average.

Rounding out the varsity competitors were Jack Pearson, who placed 132nd after bowling two games with a 213 average; Michael Saxton, who finished 136th with a 187 average across two games; and Cole Macaluso, who bowled one game and scored 158 to place 153rd.

The Warriors return to action this weekend as they travel to Indianapolis to compete in the Hoosier Classic on Feb. 14–15.