Robert “Bobby” Henderson’s name is synonymous with excellence, innovation, and championship tradition in Fayetteville State University Athletics. A multi-talented leader whose career spanned decades, Henderson made his mark as a recruiter, basketball coach, and most notably, as the inaugural head coach of FSU’s women’s bowling program.
Henderson’s visionary leadership helped launch the Broncos’ bowling program into national prominence. As a founding member of the NCAA Bowling Rules Committee, he played a pivotal role in shaping the sport at the collegiate level. His strategic mind and commitment to student-athlete development built FSU into a CIAA bowling dynasty, capturing:
- Six CIAA Championships, including
- Back-to-back titles in 2011 and 2012
- A three-peat in 2023, 2024, and 2025
His teams consistently ranked among the best in the conference, and his coaching style emphasized discipline, teamwork, and academic excellence. Henderson was named CIAA Bowling Coach of the Year multiple times, including in 2016–17 and 2023, a reflection of his sustained success and respect among peers.
Beyond the lanes, Henderson’s mentorship and dedication to Fayetteville State’s mission made him a beloved figure in the Bronco community. His induction into the Hall of Fame celebrates not only his championship pedigree but also his role in pioneering a sport that continues to thrive under the foundation he built.
Robert “Bobby” Henderson’s legacy is etched in the history of FSU Athletics—a coach, a builder, and a champion.
Fayetteville State University's bowling program has a rich and decorated history, marked by consistent dominance in the CIAA and national recognition. Here are some of the most notable accomplishments throughout the program’s history:
Championship Legacy
- CIAA Champions:
- 2007, 2011, 2012, 2023, 2024, 2025 – totaling six CIAA titles.
- NCAA Elite Eight Appearances:
- Reached the NCAA Elite Eight in 2004 and 2007, showcasing national competitiveness.
- Division Dominance:
- Multiple Western and Southern Division Championships, including undefeated division records in several seasons (e.g., 36-0 in 2006, 45-0 in 2007, 44-1 in 2011).
Coaching Excellence
- Robert “Bobby” Henderson:
- Head coach from the program’s inception in 2001 through 2020, compiling a career record of 1066-283 (.790).
- Named CIAA Coach of the Year multiple times, including in 2023.
Individual Honors
- CIAA Bowler of the Year:
- Ericka Reed (2025) with a tournament average of 200.75.
- CIAA Tournament MVPs:
- Notables include Jessica Donnelly (2007), Akira Turner (2011), Kiara Reid (2012), Crystal Mujica (2013), and Paige Rockwell (2023).
- All-CIAA & All-Tournament Team Selections:
- Numerous Broncos have earned these honors across two decades, including Savannah Starling, Lola Neal, Sondra Hulsether, and Veronica Colon-Santiago.
Academic Achievement
- CIAA Bowling All-Academic Award:
- Won in 2025 with a team GPA of 3.623, reflecting the program’s commitment to excellence both on the lanes and in the classroom.
Historic Seasons
- 2004 Season:
- Finished 64-11 (.853), went 47-1 in division play, and reached the NCAA Elite Eight.
- 2007 Season:
- Posted an 82-22 record, went 45-0 in division play, won the CIAA Championship, and earned another NCAA Elite Eight berth.
