LORETTO, Pa. (Nov. 28, 2011) – For just the second time in program history, the Saint Francis University women's bowling team and head coach Tom Falbo will host their own tournament this weekend at Holiday Bowl in Altoona.
 
"We're proud to bring the Red Flash Invitational to Central Pennsylvania once again,” Falbo said. “This is such a strong bowling community. It's been one of my goals to bring exciting events to our area. The Red Flash Invitational is a great event for those not familiar with NCAA tournaments and competitive bowling. We hope everyone comes out to support these ladies who work so hard and provide so much energy and excitement during competition."
 
Last season, the Red Flash finished second in their inaugural competition, placing behind only Kutztown. Then-freshman Marissa Matassa (Plum, Pa./Plum Senior) grabbed all-tournament honors for her performance of rolling a 941 over the course of five traditional games, good for an average of 188.2.
 
Currently this season, SFU holds a 24-11 overall record and a 4-5 mark in Northeast Conference action. Freshman Christina Leid (Ephrata, Pa./Ephrata) picked up her first NEC Rookie of the Week award a week and a half ago for her performance at the first NEC tournament of the season. Leid finished 13^th overall, averaging 192.6 in nine traditional matches, making her the highest finishing rookie in the field.
 
This year's Red Flash Invitational has increased in number from six teams a season ago, to eight teams. The upcoming event features five newcomers including New Jersey City, St. Francis (N.Y.), Ursuline, Tulane and Salem International. Making a repeat appearance at the tournament are Penn State-Altoona and Medaille.
 
In addition to the number of competing teams, the tournament format itself has expanded as well from being a two-day competition to a three-day event. Friday will feature Quad-Baker style matches, followed by Saturday's traditional game format, which will then lead into Sunday's bracket style to determine a champion.
 
The three-day event will run from Friday Dec. 2 through Sunday Dec. 4 and admission is free to the public. Friday's action is set to begin at noon, Saturday is scheduled for a 10 a.m. start and things will get underway Sunday at 9 a.m.