Student Success Center Coach Brett Swalve will coach the revived Cougar Bowling Team.
FREEPORT, IL — Highland Community College is proud to announce the return of bowling to its Cougar Athletics lineup for the upcoming academic year. On hiatus since the 2021–2022 season, bowling is back—this time as a coed team—with practices beginning in early October at 4 Seasons Bowling Center in Freeport.
Leading the charge is Brett Swalve, who currently serves as an Assistant Coach for Cougar baseball. Swalve, who joined Highland in July 2024, is also a Student Success Coach, supporting students academically—many of whom are athletes.
“I already work with student-athletes in my current role,” said Swalve. “I help them with classes, study skills, and learning how to wear multiple hats. Coaching bowling is a natural extension of that.”
Open to all skill levels, the coed team already has five bowlers committed, with room for additional students to join.
“We’re welcoming recreational and competitive bowlers alike,” he said. “Experience isn’t a deal-breaker—we want this to be a positive, accessible opportunity for students to compete while pursuing their education.”
The return of bowling has been met with enthusiasm. Several students have reached out directly to Swalve through his email, expressing interest in the program.
“It’s been a really positive reaction so far,” he noted, although he also acknowledged the challenge of reaching incoming freshmen who may not yet be aware of the opportunity.
In its first season back, the bowling team plans to compete in up to eight weekend tournaments throughout the Midwest region, including overnight travel to larger events with up to 30 teams. While competitive, the sport offers a unique balance.
“It’s a nice competitive atmosphere that still feels leisure,” said Swalve. “Bowling isn’t intensely physical, which may make it easier for students to find balance with their busy lives.”
Swalve also hinted at future growth for the program, including the potential to split into separate men’s and women’s teams as interest and skills increase. He’s exploring options to bring on an assistant coach and has already welcomed support from former Highland bowlers and community members.
“Bringing bowling back to the Highland and Freeport community is exciting,” Swalve said. “There will be some trial and error, but it’s a great time to get in on the ground level and help build something meaningful.”
Interested students can reach out to Coach Brett Swalve at brett.swalve@highland.edu to learn more.