Ever since the SNU men’s and women’s bowling teams became a reality in 2022, head coach Mark Jeffreys has been virtually on his own running the operation. For the 2026-2027 season, however, a new face has arrived to help lead the program.
Alex Hepp is the new graduate assistant for SNU Bowling, primarily working with the women’s team. Hired in June, Hepps brings his collegiate experience, coaching talent, and a unique perspective to the program.
Hepp, originally from Troy, New York, bowled for Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona. He noted that the support system around him at GCU shaped his college career.
“Coming into college I did not have a lot of experience,” Hepp said. “The support from Ben Canfield the head coach and the other players and coaches there and just the atmosphere around college bowling is what made me fall in love with the game.”
Prior to arriving at SNU, Hepp worked at Hawthorne Valley Waldorf School in Ghent, New York, where he coached modified soccer, basketball, and flag football teams. He also brings experience coaching minor league sports with the Albany Empire, Albany Firebirds, Albany Patroons, New York Phoenix, Saratoga Racers, and the Tri-City Valleycats.
Hepp explained how he first connected with Jeffreys about the graduate assistant position.
“He posted on a college bowling connection page on Facebook,” Hepp claimed. “I did some research on him and the program reached out to him and I was instantly all in with all the exciting stuff this program has going on and it’s just the beginning.”
Hepp has had aspirations to coach since high school, making a master’s degree a natural next step in his professional development.
“Well in New York you have to get a masters degree in order to hold your certification as a teacher, so I was interested in becoming a GA to not only get some coaching experience at the collegiate level but also be able to obtain that masters.
Despite years of involvement in organized athletics, Hepps remains eager to learn more about the sport alongside Jeffreys while building relationships across campus.
“My favorite thing about being a GA is just being able to connect with the players, build relationships with them and support them in any way I can on their collegiate bowling journey,” Hepp said. “Also I’m just beyond blessed to be able to work with and learn from someone like Mark who has so much experience in bowling, coaching, and professionally.”
Hepp has been able to seamlessly integrate into the program, marking a strong addition to the SNU Bowling staff.
Photo provided by: SNU Bowling