Mount Mercy Dominates Heart Bowling Conference: A Dynasty in the Making?
Mount Mercy University’s women’s bowling team cemented its position as a force to be reckoned with, securing both the 2026 Heart Bowling Conference Championship title and a clean sweep of the major individual awards. This victory marks a significant moment for the program and raises questions about the potential for sustained dominance in collegiate bowling.
Savannah Dickson Named Player of the Year
Sophomore Savannah Dickson of Round Lake, Illinois, was rightfully recognized as the Heart Conference’s Player of the Year. Her consistent performance throughout the season, culminating in a First Team All-Conference selection, highlights her as a key player to watch. Dickson also earned Heart Bowler of the Week honors in 2025, demonstrating her ability to perform under pressure.
Rookie Sensation Tori Franklin Shines
The Mustangs’ success isn’t solely reliant on veteran talent. Freshman Tori Franklin earned the Rookie of the Year award, signaling a bright future for the program. Franklin’s immediate impact underscores the strength of Mount Mercy’s recruiting and player development.
Coaching Staff Earns Top Honors
The Mount Mercy coaching staff was also awarded Coach of the Year, a testament to their strategic guidance and ability to cultivate a winning team culture. Their leadership has clearly translated into on-lane success.
All-Conference Recognition: A Testament to Depth
Mount Mercy’s depth was further evidenced by the number of players earning All-Conference honors. Savannah Dickson, Tori Franklin and Nada Abdul Jalil all secured First Team All-Conference recognition. Emma Punter and Irdina Mat Aris were named to the Second Team, showcasing the program’s overall strength. McKenzie Mattice also earned a Second Team All-Conference nod.
Mount Mercy’s Recent Successes
This championship win builds on a string of recent victories for the Mustangs. They previously secured first place at the Kohawk Invite on February 9, 2026, and won the BPA Kegel Midwest Collegiate Classic on January 20, 2026. Their consistent performance throughout the season demonstrates a high level of skill and determination.
The Rise of Mount Mercy Bowling: What’s Next?
Mount Mercy’s recent achievements suggest a program on the rise. Their success is likely due to a combination of factors, including strong recruiting, effective coaching, and a dedicated team culture. The question now is whether they can maintain this level of performance and build a lasting dynasty in the Heart Conference and beyond.
The team’s ability to consistently place high in tournaments, as seen at the Kohawk Invite and the BPA Kegel Midwest Collegiate Classic, demonstrates their competitive edge. Savannah Dickson’s individual performance, ranking second in the Kohawk Invite with a score of 1,021, further highlights the team’s talent.
FAQ
Q: Where is Mount Mercy University located?
A: Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Q: What conference does Mount Mercy University bowl in?
A: The Heart of America Athletic Conference.
Q: Who was named Rookie of the Year?
A: Tori Franklin of Mount Mercy.
Q: How many Mount Mercy players were named to the All-Conference teams?
A: Six players were recognized – three on the First Team and three on the Second Team.
Did you know? Mount Mercy also claimed the men’s Heart Bowling Conference Championship in 2026, making it a clean sweep for the university.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Savannah Dickson and Tori Franklin – they are poised to become leading figures in collegiate bowling.
Stay updated on Mount Mercy Women’s Bowling by visiting their official athletics page.
