Moline, Ill. ? Kansas University’s men failed to advance to the elimination rounds, but the KU women finished in the top four at the Leatherneck Classic bowling tournament over the weekend.

KU’s men’s club team placed fifth with 10,914 pins, just three pins behind Western Illinois, the fourth-place qualification finisher that went on to win the men’s title.

Wichita State led with 11,266 pins, and Vincennes (11,075) was second. Nebraska (10,997) was third. The top four teams advanced to elimination rounds.

“Obviously, we would have liked to pick up a few more pins, but it was a good event for us,” KU coach Mike Fine said.

Kansas’ Marc D’Errico was high bowler overall with a 215 average. Other KU bowlers were Rhino Page, 214; Jesse James, 194; Jason Elliott, 193; Alan Emmons, 181; and Jason Reese, 172.

On the women’s side, Wichita State led qualifying with 10,863 pins and was followed by Central Missouri State (10,353), KU (10,247) and Nebraska (10,227).

In the first round of the playoffs, CMSU eliminated the Jayhawks, three games to one.

Kelly Zapf led the Jayhawks and was second overall with a 199 average, and Kristina Boehm was fourth overall with 194. Other KU bowlers: Kelly Sanders (184), Annetta Manthei (181) and Sarah Roenfeldt (169).

“This was by far the women’s team’s best performance of the year,” Fine said. “It was a tough field and very challenging lane conditions. We’re pleased, and it was a significant finish for our women’s team.”

KU will travel to the Colgate Invitational on Dec. 27-28 in Maple Shade, N.J.