Valparaiso bowling head coach Stephen Anthony announced today the addition of three more players to the Crusaders’ 2009-2010 inaugural roster, including a pair of transfers from NCAA national runner-up Central Missouri, bringing the current roster to a total of 12 bowlers.

Amanda Cortese (Hoffman Estates, Ill./Hoffman Estates [Univ. of Central Missouri]) arrives at Valparaiso as a transfer with three years of eligibility remaining.  She averaged a 180 on the lanes at UCM as a freshman, appearing in 70 matches for the Jennies.  In high school, Cortese was the 2007 Illinois state runner-up, earning All-State accolades, and helped her squad to top-five finishes at the state tournament three times, including a state title in 2006.  She also was named a Denny’s High School All-American in 2008.

Twin sister Natalie Cortese (Hoffman Estates, Ill./Hoffman Estates [Univ. of Central Missouri]) also will have three years of eligibility remaining with the Crusaders after transferring in from UCM.  She ranked fourth on the national runners-up with a 189 average during her freshman campaign.  A two-time All-State honoree during her high school years, Cortese also helped guide Hoffman Estates to the IHSA state title in 2006 as well as two other top-five finishes during her prep career.  Natalie was also named a Denny’s High School All-American in 2008.

Morgan Sharp (Homer Glen, Ill./Lockport Township) will also join the Crusader squad for the 2009-2010 campaign as a freshman.  A three-year varsity bowler, Sharp captained the Porters as a senior as they captured a state championship after finishing sixth at states in her junior year.  Individually, Sharp placed 21st at the state tournament as a senior, rolling a 203.6 average.

“I am very excited to announce that these three individuals have made the decision to join our bowling program at Valparaiso University,” said Anthony.  “The collegiate experience that Amanda and Natalie Cortese bring will add to the leadership of our program and create a competitive environment in training and events. The high school experience from Morgan will strengthen our team as well and is a reflection of the talent in the area that I believe will fit well with Valparaiso University.”