The #14 Valparaiso bowling team moved up a spot in the standings during the second day of competition at the Mid-Winter Classic in Jonesboro, Ark. on Saturday, hosted by Arkansas State.

Despite going just 2-3 on Saturday, the Crusaders jumped a spot on the ladder Saturday, moving into eighth place out of the 13 competing teams. Valpo posted a pinfall of 4,849 over the day's five traditional team games, giving the squad a total pinfall of 9,390 through the tournament's first two days.

Valpo opened play on Saturday against #RV Bethune-Cookman, easily earning a 921-789 victory as freshman Carly Larson (Merrillville, Ind./Merrillville) led the way with a game of 222. The Crusaders continued action against #10 Sam Houston State, but despite four of their five bowlers breaking 200, Valpo suffered a narrow 1058-1037 defeat. Larson led the way again with a score of 231, while sophomore Raychel Wolever (Charlotte, Mich./Charlotte) posted a 224 in the loss.

The Crusaders fell in their next match, dropping a 1058-998 decision to #7 UW-Whitewater despite their best individual game of the day, a 239 from senior Torrie Decker (Van Wert, Ohio/Van Wert [Robert Morris (Ill.)]). Larson continued her strong play with her second consecutive 231, while Wolever totaled a 202 as well. The skid reached three straight matches with a 957-888 loss to #5 Stephen F. Austin despite a 214 from senior Jill Larson (Merrillville, Ind./Merrillville). But Valpo was able to end the day on a high note, downing Elmhurst 1005-896 behind games of 226 from Carly Larson, 213 from sophomore Tedra Tado (Des Plaines, Ill./Elk Grove) and 200 from sophomore Katherine Sulaitis (St. Charles, Ill./East).

Valparaiso (22-28) closes out the Mid-Winter Invitational with bracket play on Sunday.