MIDLOTHIAN, Va. – Virginia Union University Bowling Head Coach James Washington announced the signing of Anela Trites of Midlothian, Va., during a signing ceremony held Sunday, May 31, at BowlAmerica Southwest.

A graduate of Cosby High School, Trites signed her Offer Letter to continue her academic and bowling career at Virginia Union University. She selected VUU over Virginia State University and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.

Trites enters the Panthers program with a strong bowling résumé, carrying a 180 average and bringing years of experience to the lanes.

"This is only the second recruit that we've had sign an Offer Letter since I've been the coach at Virginia Union," said Washington. "I'm very glad to have her join our team. I've known Anela since she was three years old, and she's been bowling ever since. I took her from one-handed bowling to two-handed. I'm excited about having her on the team. I was going to retire last year before she told me she wanted to come bowl with us, so I guess I'm going to be here for another four years."

During the ceremony, Trites reflected on the support system that helped her reach this milestone.

"I want to thank my parents, my mom, my dad and my stepdad," said Trites. "I also want to thank all of my friends who have been with me throughout this whole journey. I want to give a special shout-out to Coach Washington and his wife for being second parents to me. They have always been there for me."

Trites becomes the newest member of the Virginia Union bowling program and is expected to join the Panthers for the 2026-27 academic year as the team continues to build for the future under Washington's leadership.