The Margin of Time: A Freshman’s Strategy for Bowling, Bible, and Balance at Greenville University

Published: December 15, 2025

Author: Luis Palmer

Finding the Rhythm Between Faith and the Lanes

For Ruth Fuller, a freshman theology major on the Greenville University bowling team, a typical day is fueled by her commitment to faith, academics, and athletics. As one of the newer members of a program established only a few years ago, Fuller embodies the demanding balance expected of a Greenville University student-athlete.

Her mornings begin early—she’s awake by 7:30 a.m., prioritizing her mental and spiritual focus before the day’s physical and academic demands start.

“I try to do a daily devotional every morning before I get up and get moving, just so that I have that time with God,” Fuller says.

That intentional start sets the tone for days packed with classes, study sessions, and practices.

Mastering the Time Squeeze

Fuller’s schedule is a steady rhythm between intellectual work and athletic effort. After her first class, she uses any available time “to study, hang out with friends, get some community time,” followed by lunch and afternoon classes that flow directly into practice or evening commitments.

Balancing a demanding theology major with team obligations requires learning efficiency in the margins. Fuller’s primary time-management strategy comes down to one word: intentionality.

“I think a big thing for me is just finding time where I can,” she says. “Instead of going back to my room to take a nap or play on my phone, I come here, sit down intentionally, and get things done. That’s been really important.”

Her academic focus naturally complements her spiritual discipline. “As a theology major,” she adds, “I’m already reading my Bible and theological books, so it all kind of fits together.”

Perseverance on the Team

For Fuller, faith and athletics intertwine most clearly in her approach to perseverance and teamwork. Like any competitor, she faces moments when the mental game becomes a struggle—especially when she feels unsupported.

“When I have teammates that aren’t very supportive or I don’t really feel like we’re working together, it can be really tough,” she admits. “Those are the moments when I have to remind myself why I’m doing this.”

In those times, she draws on faith to find steadiness and purpose. When asked about her long-term goals beyond bowling, her answer comes easily: spiritual growth.

“Faith is definitely my biggest goal,” she says. “I want to grow in understanding and deepen my beliefs.”

The Value of Opportunity

Fuller’s ability to pursue her goals at Greenville University is made possible through generous donor support. She currently holds three scholarships and is deeply grateful for the opportunity they provide.

“I’d be really thankful,” she says when asked what she would tell a donor. “I don’t think I would have had a lot of the opportunities that I have right now without these scholarships.”

While she might have attended college elsewhere, she recognizes that this support made GU—and its unique integration of faith, community, and athletics—possible.

Her story reflects what it means to live fully into the Greenville University experience: early mornings, intentional effort, and a faith that fuels every pursuit—from the classroom to the bowling lanes.