Baltimore, Md. – Fayetteville State University proudly announces that former bowling standout Akira Turner has been inducted into the 2026 John B. McLendon CIAA Hall of Fame Class, making history as the first bowler ever inducted into the CIAA Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony was held today at the Baltimore Convention Center during CIAA Tournament Week.
Turner, one of the most decorated bowlers in CIAA history, was a four-year team captain who helped define the competitive standard of collegiate bowling within the conference. Her remarkable career includes:
- Two CIAA Player of the Year awards (2010, 2011)
- Four All-CIAA selections
- 2011 CIAA Tournament MVP honors
- The CIAA's highest season scoring average (200) in 2011
- Leadership in guiding FSU to four divisional championships and two CIAA titles
"Akira Turner is the embodiment of what it means to be a Fayetteville State Bronco," said Anthony Bennett, FSU Director of Athletics. "Her leadership, discipline, and competitive spirit elevated our program and set a new standard for excellence across the CIAA. Being the first bowler ever inducted into the CIAA Hall of Fame is a fitting honor for someone who helped transform the sport within our conference."
Under long‑tenured head coach Bobby Henderson, Turner was at the heart of a historic era of success for the Lady Broncos. FSU captured multiple undefeated divisional seasons, several NCAA Elite Eight appearances, and established itself as one of the premier bowling programs in the nation.
"Akira was a once‑in‑a‑generation student‑athlete," said Head Coach Bobby Henderson. "Her consistency, maturity, and love for the sport made everyone around her better. She was the engine of our program and the standard our teams still aspire to. This Hall of Fame recognition is not only deserved—it was inevitable."
Turner was also named FSU Player of the Year in 2011 and, in 2021, became the first bowling student-athlete inducted into the Fayetteville State University Athletics Hall of Fame. Today's CIAA honor further solidifies her legacy as a trailblazer whose impact will inspire future generations of CIAA bowlers.
Gallery: (2-27-2026) Akira Turner CIAA Hall of Famer
About the CIAA Hall of Fame
The John B. McLendon CIAA Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose achievements have significantly shaped the conference's rich heritage. Inductees include student‑athletes, coaches, and administrators who have demonstrated exceptional excellence and leadership.
About Fayetteville State University Athletics
Fayetteville State University is a proud member of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, competing in 11 varsity sports while emphasizing academic success, athletic excellence, and community impact. FSU Bowling remains one of the university's most decorated programs, marked by championships, national postseason appearances, and a tradition of sustained competitive success.
