Cottey College announces the hiring of Linda Himes as the new head coach of the Comet Bowling program. An All-American collegiate bowler and NAIA Player of the Year Runner- Up, Linda is referenced as a rising coaching talent. Himes brings elite competitive experience, advanced technical training, and a passion for athlete development to Cottey's program.
Himes joins the Comets after an accomplished career at Webber International University, one of the nation's premier bowling institutions. During her time at Webber, she earned First Team All‑American honors and was the Player of the Year Runner‑Up, distinguishing herself as one of the top collegiate bowlers in the country. She completed both her Bachelor of Science in Sports Business Management (2022–2024) and her Master's in Sports Business Management (2024–2025) at Webber. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Kansas Wesleyan University.
Her coaching and technical foundation are equally impressive. Himes is a United States Bowling Congress Bronze‑Level and Silver‑Level Coach and a Certified Personal Trainer and Strength and Conditioning Coach through the International Sports Science Association, while holding multiple Kegel Coaching Master's Programs (KCMP)certifications, including The Science of Two‑Handed System, The Art of Scoring, and Directional Training. She is also CPR/AED certified.
Himes brings nearly a decade of hands‑on industry experience from Holiday Entertainment Center in Texarkana, Arkansas, where she worked in both management and lane operations. Her responsibilities included lane maintenance, oil pattern adjustments, customer service, and facility oversight — giving her a comprehensive understanding of the competitive and operational sides of the sport.
"Coach Himes is a tremendous addition to Cottey College," stated Director of Athletics, Dr. Maryann Mitts. "Her All‑American pedigree, technical expertise, and commitment to developing confident, disciplined student‑athletes make her an ideal leader for our bowling program. I am so excited for not only our current student-athletes, but all those who will compete for Cottey College in the years ahead."
Himes expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to build and elevate the Comets' presence on the lanes. "I'm honored to join Cottey College and lead the bowling program," Himes said. "My goal is to create a culture rooted in hard work, integrity, and teamwork while helping our athletes grow as competitors and as people."
Himes will begin her role immediately as the Comets prepare for upcoming competition.
