August 21, 2009
By: Mark Martin
IT
IS THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN
The call for league bowling is in the air.
If you are not signed up for a league as yet, why not call your local bowling center and inquire about openings. Every bowling center will help place you in a league, which matches your skill and interest level.
League bowling is the most reasonably priced recreational opportunity a person can have. For an average of $12-$17 each league session you can enjoy the physical exercise the sport provides, the camaraderie of being with others with like interests and the competition.
Speaking of the physical exercise the game provides, make sure to stretch those muscles before competition so you don't end up on the disabled list. Be sure to get to your league session a few minutes early and throw a few practice balls.
If you haven't bowled for a while, like since last spring, visit your local bowling center and work on your mechanics. By doing this you won't be surprised when that first league session comes.
If you are unsure about joining a league, encourage one of your friends to join with you. This can make the experience much more pleasant.
Bowling centers offer leagues at every level of competition. There are leagues for all women, all men, mixed and youth leagues at virtually all local centers.
For parents this is the chance to get your children involved in the game that you probably enjoyed in your youth. In addition to youth leagues there are also many family leagues, where youth bowl with adults. There is much flexibility built into these league structures to accommodate every family's needs.
Nearly all bowling centers offer a youth program. Even if your local center has not had one in the past, check with the center personnel about their current programs.
Local bowling centers have done a tremendous job of keeping up with the times. The summer time is when your local bowling center prepares for the busy fall winter season.
I have visited several local bowling centers and I recommend that you do the same. Many have made improvements during the summer to enhance your bowling experience.
The United States Congress (USBC) offers certified organizational support for leagues. The annual cost is very nominal and only has to be paid in one league to be covered in your other local leagues.
Annual membership in the USBC through the Metro Detroit USBC is $19.
The USBC through the MDUSBC offers league structure support, standardized rules, bonding, awards program; standardization of the equipment used and recognized league averages. The MDUSBC also offers our own brand of local awards program and other opportunities only available to our members.
The MDUSBC will continue to offer a new improved plastic membership card direct mailed to each bowler this season, an improved awards program for bowlers 170 average and under, discount opportunities and a $20 savings coupon on a purchase of $150 or more at participating pro shops. There are over 40 bowling pro shops participating in the program. The entire list will be mailed to members when they receive their coupon.
Your best value in sports is still certification, as it has been for over 100 years.
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HONOR SCORES
300
Games
Date,
Name, Hometown, Center, League
Aug.
11, Edward Holsey,
800
Series
Aug.
12, Andrew Bennett (811),
Mark Martin writes a weekly bowling column for The Daily Oakland Press and is the association manager of the Metro Detroit USBC Association. He can be reached at (248) 443-2695, faxed at (248) 443-2690 or e-mailed at mark.martin@mdusbc.com.