SMYRNA, Tenn. -- The University of Maryland Eastern Shore bowling team began the post-season portion of its schedule with the ISC/ITC Sectionals. The Hawks were placed in the Smyrna, Tennessee one and when the final frame was complete, UMES finished in third place.

The top four teams from the four different regionals each earn a spot in the USBC National Championship Tournament, April 17-20 at the Kingpin Lanes in Jefferstontown, Ky. 

"We bowled really well this weekend," stated head coach Roger Petrin. "We got some big games from everyone and their hard work paid off with a spot in the 'Sweet 16' next month!"

The format of the ITC Sectional is different that most tournaments that teams compete in. Most Invitationals have head-to-head contests within Baker and Traditional scoring to determine a winner. The ITC Sectional was a true pinfall total for each team. In total, each team bowled 64 games with the pin fall totals determining the final standings.

Jacksonville State won the Smyrna Sectional with a pinfall total of 13,403 followed by SCAD in second place with 13,235. The Hawks took the third spot with a pin fall total 12,511. The final team from the sectional to advance was Webber International with 12,379.

On the individual side, the top five bowlers advance to the championship side as well. However, the Hawks narrowly missed sending Brooke Roberts as she finished in sixth place by just 10 pins. Gabriella Ochoa Hubbard (Diana) was not too far behind and finished in 11th place.

Next up for the Hawks will be a return trip to Smyrna this coming weekend for the Music City Classic, March 15-17.