Gary Robinson

Title

Head Women's Bowling Coach

Gary Robinson began his tenure as the head women's bowling coach at Illinois Wesleyan Oct. 10, 2025. He is the fourth coach in the program's history and will see the 2025-26 season mark his first at the helm.

Robinson, a member of the Peoria River City USBC Hall of Fame Class of 2022 for Outstanding Performance, has a bowling career that spans more than three decades. He has participated in 32 USBC Open championships, 28 Illinois state championships, and 31 Peoria Open championships over the course of his career.

“Bowling and teaching are two things that continually bring me joy in my life and being able to combine the two is a fantastic opportunity,” Robinson said. “My goal for the Illinois Wesleyan University women’s bowling program is to build a championship program by improving scores and skills and creating an environment, where most importantly student-athletes enjoy their sport and the spirit of competition.”

He spent 17 seasons in the masters league which saw him showcase his skill in one of the toughest competitive environments in the area. A leader in the sport, he served as a captain for five years.

Robinson’s career-high average of 231 includes 39 perfect 300 games and 12 800 series. He won the 1995 Joe Green Holiday Scratch Tournament, the 1999-00 PRCUSBC Open Doubles Championship, the 2002-03 PRCUSBC Team Championship, the 2005-06 Central Illinois Team Championship, and the 2010-11 PRCUSBC Open Team Championship. In the final title run, Robinson’s team set the association record with a score of 3710.

In addition to his tremendous success competing, Robinson has been a longtime certified youth coach. He has shared his passion and knowledge of the game through coaching and inspiring the next generation in the sport. Robinson served as the Greater Peoria Bowling Association Director and also held the role of tournament director for the organization.

Professionally, Robinson comes to Illinois Wesleyan after a long standing career with Caterpillar Inc. that began in 1989 and ended with his retirement in 2023. At Caterpillar, Robinson held many different positions, most recently serving as senior manager procurement solutions for the global supply network. He holds an associate degree from College of Lake County and a bachelor’s of science degree in industrial technology graphic arts sequence from Illinois State. Robinson earned his master’s degree in industrial education and training from ISU in 1989 and has since accrued several certifications and course completions.