Roger Petrin has been chosen to lead the Kentucky Wesleyan College bowling program, as announced by Director of Athletics Rob Mallory last week. Petrin takes over the men’s and women’s program after the resignation of Scott Thompson in June.
“We are excited to welcome coach Petrin and his family to Kentucky Wesleyan,” Mallory said in a release. “It was clear from the onset that Roger’s values and priorities aligned well with the institution and the athletic department. He is a passionate bowling professional, was a collegiate bowler himself, and immediately connected with everyone that was part of the hiring process.”
A program still in its infancy, the Panthers have achieved historic success in two short years. Both programs have seen team and individual success as well as national rankings under Thompson’s guidance.
“In just two years, our bowling programs have proven themselves to be highly competitive,” Mallory said. “Roger is perfectly suited to continue our growth and take these programs to new heights.”
Petrin said he is excited to join the Kentucky Wesleyan family.
“I have dreamed of becoming a college bowling coach ever since I was in youth bowling,” he said. “It is a privilege to be given the opportunity to share my experiences in bowling with the next generation of bowlers.”
Petrin comes to Wesleyan after a two-year run with the United States Bowling Congress (USBC), serving as Regional Manager for the Association. Since 2019, Petrin has been responsible for cultivating and stewarding over 500 association charters in the Midwest. He has also provided the membership with educational seminars over that same time.
While living in Wichita, Kansas, Petrin has stayed active in the sport while serving as an assistant coach from Kapaun Mt. Carmel High School from 2013-15 and Derby High School this past season. Petrin has certifications from The National Center for Safety Initiative, The United States Center for SafeSport, and the USBC.
A graduate of Wichita State, Petrin competed for the well-established Shocker bowling program and earned his Bachelor of Education degree in Sport Management in 2013. Roger went on to receive his USBC Bronze Coaching certification.
He and his wife Tamara and daughter Rosy are relocating to Owensboro.
