Project Two HandsAided by experts in coaching and training, a USBC writer attempts conversion to two-handed delivery.In many circles, United States Bowling Congress Publishing Coordinator Gene Kanak would be considered a fairly-successful bowler. He has authored two perfect games, a high three-game series of 804 and several league averages of 210 or greater. So why, at the age of 30, would he want to abandon the traditional style that has brought him this far in favor of something completely different? In his own words, “because the two-handed delivery is just plain awesome”.Learn More About Project Two Hands
TournamentsWhether you’re a highly-competitive bowler carrying a 200 average in a Sport league or a bowler who wonders if there is a tournament in which you can compete and have a chance to win, the USBC offers such a wide variety of tournaments that you are bound to find one perfect for you.Are you a women who thinks she can cut it against PBA Women’s Series bowlers? Try the USBC Queens. Are you a youth bowler looking to put your skills to use by earning some scholarship money? Learn more about how to qualify for the Junior Gold Championships. Are you a bowler looking for a one-of-a-kind experience on bowling's biggest stage? Look into the USBC Women's Championships or USBC’s longest-standing event, the 107-year-old USBC Open Championships, both contested each year in a unique arena setting.USBC tournaments offer opportunities for all bowlers regardless of age or skill level. You never know, you could be one of the next bowlers to compete on live TV at the next Bowling’s Clash of Champions, a USBC event.Tournaments Page
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Ask a ProIf you need help with your game, you’ve come to the right place because BOWL.com’s monthly video tips will provide you with the basic information you need to begin seeing improvement. Check back frequently to make sure you are seeing the latest tips, and then work with a USBC-certified coach or fellow bowler to practice what you’ve learned.When you feel ready, take the ultimate challenge by becoming a USBC Sport Bowling member.Once you do, you’ll have access to an exclusive library of advance tips located in the Sport Bowling Members Only section of BOWL.com. Remember, you don’t have to go it alone. Let BOWL.com’s video tips help you take your game to new heights!Watch Video
Be a Part of History—Include YOUR Favorite Memories in the IBC Time Capsule!As part of the grand opening of the International Bowling Campus, a time capsule will be buried outside of the International Training & Research Center to commemorate the completion of the campus—and we want YOU to be a part of it!In 150 words or less, tell us about your favorite bowling memory and what you think the future holds for bowling. Feel free to include a 4” x 6” photo of your favorite bowling memory, too. Please include the date of the event on the back of the photo. Include your name and location with your submission, and indicate whether you are a youth or adult member. Up to 1,000 entries will be included—be sure to get yours in now! Deadline for submissions is January 10, 2010.Entries can be emailed to valerie.stilen@bowl.com, or mailed to:USBC
Attn: Valerie Stilen
621 Six Flags Drive
Arlington, TX 76011Read More
USBC BenefitsYour membership in the United States Bowling Congress helps grow the sport in more ways than you might imagine. Hear USBC members such as Kim Terrell-Kearney, Chris Barnes and 2008 USBC Senior Masters Champion Kenny Parks explain the many benefits that accompany your USBC membership, and how the growth of the sport depends on the participation of members like you. From its support of charities to shortened league seasons for busy youth and much more, the USBC has your best interests covered.Click Here
to view learn more.
New youth processing system is now availableThe United States Bowling Congress launched its new Internet-based system for processing youth league bowlers on Monday, Aug. 17.The new system will process membership, awards and averages for youth bowlers starting with the 2009-10 season. WinLABS will no longer be available to process youth leagues.Additional Youth Processing Webinars ScheduledUSBC HQ developed Youth Processing Webinars to help understand the new on-line application. We have had 15 insightful Webinars over the last few weeks and the feedback has been great. The next available session will be:
Thursday, Oct. 29 at 2 p.m. ET
To register, please contact Mike Larsen at mike.larsen@bowl.com or (800) 514-2695 ext. 8242.
Because the new method is an Internet-based system, associations and bowling centers will be able to process their youth membership from any computer with Internet access. The system also will allow for a more efficient means of system upgrades throughout the year without the need for software downloads.USBC staff is continuing to evaluate the processing system and more features will be available in the near future.Before using the new system, please take time to read the Quick Reference Guide to familiarize yourself with the process. While the guide is not a user reference manual, it should provide answers to several scenarios you might encounter.To view the Quick Reference Guide,
click here.To connect to the new youth processing system,
click here.If you have questions or feedback, contact USBC at 1-800-514-BOWL (2695).If you receive a certificate notice, please accept it and continue.Read More
2010 USBC Hall of Fame Ceremony2010 USBC Hall of Fame Ceremony Set for International Bowling Campus prior to U.S. Women's Open FinalsWhen members of the United States Bowling Congress Hall of Fame class of 2010 are enshrined, they will do so in a setting befitting the country's major sports. That's because the 2010 induction ceremony will be held outdoors May 12 at the International Bowling Campus.Inductions will take place in the afternoon before the live stepladder finals for the U.S. Women's Open that evening on the lanes of the International Training and Research Center . That event will be broadcast on ESPN2."Our goals in moving the inductions to Arlington are to spotlight the new International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame and International Bowling Campus while possibly growing the event into something big every year," said USBC Vice President-Media Pete Tredwell. "The inspiration for this idea comes from the annual baseball and pro football ceremonies. Those venues allow for large crowds and major media coverage. Plus having it the same day as the U.S. Women's Open brings more focus to both events."The 2010 event also will include a formal dinner in downtown Fort Worth on May 11. Fans will be able to purchase tickets to be with the new and past hall of famers and other dignitaries with the proceeds going to the IBM/HF.The Veterans and Meritorious Service part of the class of 2010 will be announced in November with the Superior Performance inductees to follow in December or January.Read More
USBC Helen Baker Outstanding Association Service AwardNamed for the fifth president of the Women’s International Bowling Congress, the award annually recognizes an outstanding bowling leader who has made invaluable contributions to local and state associations as an innovator, creator and mentor of adult programs. Applications must be postmarked by Dec. 1.For an application,
click here
.
USBC Joyce Deitch Trailblazer AwardNamed for the seventh president of the Women’s International Bowling Congress, the award annually recognizes organizations and individuals who have made important contributions to bowling by being motivators, visionaries, leaders and innovators. Applications must be postmarked by Dec. 1.For an application,
click here
.
USBC Proprietor of the Year AwardThe award annually recognizes an outstanding bowling center proprietor for his/her enthusiastic support of local and state bowling associations and of national programs. Applications must be postmarked by Dec. 1.For an application,
click here
.
Youth Program ChangesThe USBC Board of Directors, based on recommendations by the USBC Youth Committee, approved several major changes to the structure of current USBC Youth programs. As participation in youth sports is on the rise in America, the changes set forth for USBC Youth programs will attract more youth bowlers to participate in certified league play.The changes will affect how memberships are processed, offer a new short-season membership product, restructure the awards program and lower the maximum age for youth bowlers.
Learn More
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J.R RaymondThe Men’s Collegiate Spotlight is currently featuring McKendree University junior J.R. Raymond. With an Intercollegiate Team Championships title already under his belt with Saginaw Valley State University in 2007, he has the experience and drive to lead the Bearcats to their first ITC appearance. A National Collegiate Bowling Coaches Association 2006-07 Second Team and 2008-09 First Team All-American, Raymond had the fourth-highest average in the nation last season, finishing at more than 213 a game.Name: J.R. Raymond Age: 25 Year in school: Junior Hometown: Gaylord, Mich. Marital/dating status: Single High certified game: 300 High certified series: 836 Best collegiate tournament finish: 1st (three) – 2006 Midwest Collegiate Championships, 2009 Blue & Gold, 2009 S.I. Elite Invitational Bowling ball weight: 15 Favorite brand of bowling balls: Storm Favorite bowling ball of all time: Storm Hot Rod Pro Stock
ONE all-time best collegiate bowling memory
My best memory was winning the Intercollegiate Team Championships when I was at Saginaw Valley State.TWO biggest keys to collegiate bowling success
1. Teamwork!
2. Lane playTHREE things you bring with you to every tournament
1. Confidence
2. Street Rod Pearl
3. Coach’s debit card to pay for food!FOUR collegiate bowlers you most respect and/or admire
1. Josh Blanchard
2. Mike Snow
3. Toby Sambueno
4. Dan StrubelFIVE bowlers (past or present) that would make up your fantasy Baker team
1 Dan MacLelland
2. Bill O’Neill
3. Anthony LaCaze
4. Tom Smallwood
5. Chris BarnesSIX bowling balls you’d bring to ITCs or ISCs
1. Street Rod Pearl
2. Reign
3. Rouge Cell
4. Fast
5. Virtual Gravity
6. Virtual EnergySEVEN deadly sins of collegiate bowling – what should collegiate bowlers avoid doing at all costs either on or off the lanes?
1. Playing too deep too early
2. Arguing with coach/teammates
3. Making a fool of yourself by kicking and throwing things like I used to do!
4. Missing spares
5. Not communicating
6. Being selfish
7. Not eating something before a tournamentEIGHT of my favorite songs are
1. Break – Three Days Grace
2. Comatose - Skillet
3. Hero - Skillet
4. Faint - Linkin Park
5. Paranoid - Linkin Park
6. Riot – Three Days Grace
7. Forever - Drake
8. Sideways – Dierks BentleyNINE of my favorite snack foods are
1. Cheese and crackers
2. Kit Kat
3. Beef jerky
4. Lucky Charms
5. Fruit snacks
6. Snickers
7. Peanuts
8. Candy corn
9. OreosTEN minutes before a big match, I can be found (doing what?)
I’m usually stretching and listening to my iPod.ELEVEN strikes in a row still makes me a little nervous (True or false)
Yes, but I try to harness it and use it to my advantage.TWELVE years from now, I hope to be …
I hope to be traveling on tour and married with a couple kids.Read More
Stefanie NationDespite winning a title in her debut appearance on a PBA Women’s Series telecast and making two additional telecasts later in the same season, something was still missing for Stefanie Nation—something that only Team USA could help her regain.“The biggest thing for me was going from team to individual bowling. The only person you have to rely on is yourself,” Nation says of her transition from collegiate bowling at the University of Central Florida, where the Striking Knights fell just short of a national title in 2006 when they lost to Lindenwood in the title match, to bowling professionally.“I am so excited to bowl the Women’s World Championship, knowing that there are people behind me that are going to pick me up no matter what happens. When you’re out there alone it’s just you, there’s nobody there to pick you up on things like missed spares.”As much as Nation may have grown to value a team ethic at UCF, though, nothing instills Nation with a sense of something bigger than herself more powerfully than bowling with Team USA.“I just got chills thinking about it,” Nation says. “It is such a sense of pride to know that there are millions at home that we are representing, and that when we win medals, the country wins medals. It is not about us—it is about bowling.”The country won another medal on Nation’s watch recently when she took home the gold in the singles event of the 2009 Women’s World Championships on July 30, 2009.Read More
Rhino PageBy the time Rhino Page gathered his ball to set up for one more strike after throwing the front 11 on TV at the 2009 Japan Cup, he had no idea that he was throwing one short for $100,000.“My jaw dropped when they told me I had won that money,” Page recalls of the aftermath of bowling the first-ever televised 300 game in Japan Cup History. But even the thrill of holding a $100,000 check with his name on it does not rival the excitement Rhino anticipates as he prepares to bowl with Team USA for the sixth time.“Money and PBA titles are great,” Rhino concedes, “but when you’re in a foreign country and you have ‘USA’ on your back and you’re on that gold medal stand, you feel so much pride.”After making history at the Japan Cup and recording the most sensational rookie year in the 50 years of the PBA’s existence in the 2007-2008 season, there is a lot to be proud of in Rhino’s life these days. For all the accolades on his resume, though, one of his proudest achievements has nothing to do with bowling.A feisty youth bowler who was hotly competitive in everything he did—“even if it was a simple card game,” Rhino says—Rhino worked as hard to become a great bowler as he did to become a great person, struggling to soften a temper that provoked his parents to withdraw him from a junior tournament mid-match for kicking a ball return.“I had such a bad temper as a kid. It had to do with that competitiveness. When things don’t go your way you don’t know how to deal with it,” Rhino says.“It is easy to learn how to win, but not so easy to learn how to lose.”With talent such as all-time PBA titlist Walter Ray Williams, Jr. and reigning PBA Player of the Year Wes Malott in his corner on Team USA this year, though, losing is likely the last thing on Rhino Page’s mind.Read More
Shannon O'KeefeBy now, many are aware of Shannon O’Keefe’s achievements as a Gold-Medalist at the 2007 Women’s World Championships and a five-time member of Team USA. What few people may know, though, is that the origin of those achievements is found in one of the most unlikely places imaginable—a pair of shoes.The daughter of a former professional bowler, it was not until O’Keefe turned 16 that she first decided to join her brother on the lanes as her body began to suffer the consequences of a determined softball career in which, at just 15 years old, she finished among the top 160 at the 1996 U.S. Olympic softball team trials.“My Dad took me to Dick’s Sporting Goods and got me a teal plastic ball, and then I looked up and saw this pair of white Lind’s shoes with a teal toe,” Shannon explains.“I am not spending $150 just so you can look cute in a sport you’re not even good at,” her father said.“That was all I needed,” Shannon reflects years later. “As soon as you tell me I can’t do something, I will work at it until I prove you wrong.”Though Shannon’s father surely considers himself proven wrong by now, Shannon aims to prove much more, seeking to “win all the majors,” a goal inspired after she finished as runner-up at the 2007 Women’s U.S. Open in Reno. As for the father who once dared to doubt her?“He is one of my best friends,” Shannon says. “He has been with me on this journey from day one. To have somebody in your corner with you like that, I am very blessed.”Read More
Danielle McEwanDanielle McEwan of Stony Point, N.Y., made the most of her summer in 2009. McEwan finished her senior year at North Rockland High School with an individual victory at the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Championships, while helping the Red Raiders to a third-place team finish. She followed that performance with a semifinals appearance at the USBC Junior Gold Championships in Indianapolis.The 18-year-old right-hander capped her summer by winning the girls division of the Teen Masters in Las Vegas.McEwan recently took a break from her studies at Fairleigh Dickinson University to answer a few questions for BOWL.com.How often do you practice? What do you usually work on when you practice?
For the most part, I practice every day. What I work on constantly changes, depending on what needs work or what I am trying to fix or make better. What’s your most memorable tournament experience? What made it so special?
My most memorable tournament experience was at the Teen Masters. After four days of bowling, I qualified in the top four to make the finals. The finals were held on one lane in the middle of a mall on the Las Vegas Strip. There were tons of people watching and cameras everywhere.What’s your favorite thing about bowling competitively with a team? How does your coach help you stay together as a team? How do you communicate with your teammates on the lanes?
My favorite thing about bowling with a team is that there is so much more energy and excitement. When bowling individually, you’re in it for yourself. As a team, you’re bowling for yourself and four other people. I absolutely loved bowling for my high school team. My team was very close, both on and off the lanes, and I think that is what made us such a dominant team. Although I miss them, I am looking forward to bowling for Fairleigh Dickinson University this year and hopefully having as much success with my new team as I have in the past. What do you like the most about tournaments like the Junior Gold Championships? How do you prepare for tournaments?
The thing that I like the most about tournaments like Junior Gold and Teen Masters is that it’s a marathon. These tournaments go on for days, and we bowl many games. I think this makes it completely fair because there is no way for someone to get lucky or have a good day. This also helps if you have a bad game or day. You always have tomorrow to make up for it.Read More
Bryce Rose PetraccoroBryce Rose Petraccoro of Lavallette, N.J., is well on her way to big things in bowling. The 12-year-old already has a USBC Junior Gold Championships appearance under her belt. She has worked with renowned coaches like Diandra Asbaty and Del Ballard Jr. She has even started a bowling club at her school. Most importantly, she has accomplished all of this while maintaining a 4.0 grade-point average at Lavallette Elementary School.Petraccoro’s high series is 653. She has 224 game and 583 series on Sport-certified lane conditions.Petraccoro recently took a break from her busy eighth-grade schedule to answer a few questions for BOWL.com.What do you think is the best way to get kids into the bowling center and onto the lanes? What do you tell your friends about bowling?It’s easy to get kids on the lanes. When I moved to my new school, they didn’t have any bowling, so I started a club. We have so much fun at Paydrome, and this year we’ll have over 50 members!I tell my friends everything about bowling, like how much fun it is to go to different centers and bowl each weekend. Mondays at school, we talk about the tournaments! I show them all my bowling stuff, like pictures with pros, signed pins, trophies and oh yes, mom and dad’s favorite, the scholarship money!Do you have any coaches? How long have you worked with them? Has it made a big difference in your game?Over the years I have worked with a lot of coaches. I have attended pro clinics with Parker Bohn III, Diandra Asbaty, Richard Shockley, Carolyn Dorin-Ballard and Del Ballard Jr. Every coach I have worked with has helped me get better. I have a special place in my heart for coach Ryan Scott West. My dad has been there for me since I was a pee wee. He keeps me focused and positive. He says the right things at the right time when I’m not doing well.How often do you practice? What do you usually work on when you practice?Unfortunately, I cannot get to the lanes as often as I’d like to, but I still do other things related to bowling. I exercise, spend time on BOWL.com and play other sports to keep me agile. When I do get the chance to go and practice, I break my time into two parts. After I’m done stretching, the first part I work on is my strike ball and target (second arrow) using each of my two 12-pounders, one shiny and one dull. The second part I work on is my spares. I use a plastic ball and play straight at my key pins. Before I leave, I try to hit all my key pins in order without missing!What do you like the most about tournaments like the Junior Gold Championships? How do you prepare for tournaments?What I like about tournaments like the Junior Gold Championships is that you get to compete with the best of the best, and it’s a great chance to experience what it will be like when I get to be in high school, college and if I pursue my career in bowling, joining the pros.I prepare for tournaments a certain way before the event begins. The night before, I eat curly macaroni with my dad’s special tomato sauce. The next morning, I eat a nice, healthy breakfast, make sure my iPod is fully charged and then I’m on my way to the tournament listening to my favorite songs. Once I arrive at the event, I check in and say hello to all the familiar faces that I see. About 15 minutes before the tournament begins, I stretch to make sure my whole body is loosened up and ready to bowl.Read More
Torrie DeckerTorrie Decker of Van Wert, Ohio, not only is a student of the game, but a teacher as well.The 17-year-old is a USBC Bronze coach and has aspirations of earning Silver status soon. She has passed on her knowledge of the sport to the young bowlers at Olympic Lanes, where she has been coaching for the past two years. She also has proven herself to be a tough competitor when she laces up her shoes.In 2007, Decker won the Freshman Girls Division of the Ohio 9th-12th Grade Singles Championships. She followed that up with a third-place finish the following year in the Sophomore Girls Division. Her most recent victory was at the 2009 Ohio State Pepsi Tournament, where she claimed the girls scratch title.She also has a 290 game to her credit, with a high series of 690.Decker recently took a break from her busy schedule to answer a few questions for BOWL.com.Are there any bowlers you look up to? Do you try to model your game after them? What is it about their games that you like?
There are three main bowlers I look up to. Shannon Pluhowsky is a great bowler and has been my hero since I was 12. I love her emotional game. She keeps her composure when things are going great, and even when things get rough, she still stands strong. I try to model my physical game after Stefanie Nation. She is a very versatile bowler and is very consistent. The third bowler I look up to is my dad. He’s very open-minded and is always searching for something else to work on. I also want to model my mental game after his. He is very knowledgeable and very capable of coaching the mental game as well.When looking for a college, will the chance to bowl for a program influence your decision?
I've already been searching for colleges, and the ones I have looked at have bowling programs. For me, though, my priorities are academics first and social environment second. Then, I would evaluate the bowling program and hope all three would benefit me in the long run. Missing out on high school bowling my junior year has me craving collegiate bowling. I've watched college tournaments in action, and I just truly want to be back in that team atmosphere again.What do you like the most about tournaments like the Junior Gold Championships and USBC Youth Open Championships? How do you prepare for tournaments?
The thing I like the most about Junior Gold and the Youth Open is the huge variety of people you get to meet. You can learn so much from coaches, players and fans. As I learned in my Bronze certification class, it’s all about networking. I also love the depth of competition with the athletes and the Sport shots as well. It’s a whole new atmosphere that I love to be in. It has also given me a chance to meet collegiate coaches and have them watch me during competition and practice, which is a huge help.I have read a lot of books about the mental game and practice about 25 to 35 games a week. I work on fundamentals, form and spare shooting. I'm never concerned about my score when I practice.What’s your most memorable tournament experience? What made it so special?
My most memorable tournament experience was winning my high school singles title. I had to bowl against a girl who was averaging over 240 for the day. I was the underdog. It took place before the boys singles tournament, and all I can remember was that all of the teams were bunched up in one corner of the house watching her and I fight for the championship. I was extremely nervous, but my dad was right behind me the whole time helping me out, but also letting me do my own thing. As soon I rolled my last ball and won, I turned around and kissed my dad. You could hear everybody say, “Aw!” It was cute and funny. I'll never forget it.Read More
Mary WellsMary Wells of Westerville, Ohio, has accomplished a lot in only one year of bowling at Westerville Central High School. As she starts her sophomore campaign, she looks to bring the Warhawks back to the Ohio High School Bowling State Tournament.The 15-year-old right-hander helped the Westerville Central girls reach the state finals for the first time on their way to a sixth-place finish during the 2008-09 season. Wells carried a 206 average throughout the season, which included a 278 game. She was named Rookie of the Year and MVP for Westerville Central.Wells was able to prepare for the upcoming season by bowling the USBC Junior Gold Championships in Indianapolis in July. She advanced to the semifinals, where she finished 35th.Wells recently took a break from her busy schedule to answer a few questions for BOWL.com.How often do you practice? What do you usually work on when you practice?I practice several times a week, depending on school related things. Most of the time, I’m able to practice five times a week. During these times, I practice many things. At the moment, it is mostly spares.Do you have any coaches? How long have you worked with them? Has it made a big difference in your game?I have had many coaches. Some have been for a long time and others just recently as I have begun to progress. My mom has been my coach since I was little. She is one of the main reasons I started the sport. But besides her, there is Jeff Robinson, who is also one of our coaches for high school. I have been working with him for a couple of years now. Then, there is the most recent, Ron Hatfield. We just started working together about eight months ago, and my game has progressed a bunch.What’s your favorite thing about bowling competitively with a team? How does your coach help you stay together as a team? How do you communicate with your teammates on the lanes?I would have to say my favorite thing about bowling competitively with a team would be having people with you. It makes it a lot less nerve-racking. Our coach keeps us focused and in line but still lets us have fun. I personally communicate with my teammates by just encouraging them. I hate when there is negative talk going on.What’s your most memorable tournament experience? What made it so special?My most memorable tournament would have to be the first tournament I won, which was the Sweet Sixteen tournament. This was so special to me because it was the first year I started bowling in tournaments competitively.Read More
Ryan WolfeRyan Wolfe of Kettering, Ohio, is not afraid of rising to the challenge on the lanes.As a freshman at Kettering Fairmont High School last season, Wolfe rolled his first 300 game to help his team advance to the Ohio High School Athletic Association State Tournament. At the state finals, he added a 298 game to lead Kettering Fairmont to a second-place finish.The 15-year-old right-hander recently added another 300 game on his way to an 822 series in his youth league at Poelking Woodman Lanes.Wolfe recently took a break from his busy schedule to answer a few questions for BOWL.com.How often do you practice? What do you usually work on when you practice?
I practice as often as I can, which is usually five to six days per week. Usually, I work on my spare shooting for two full games, then bowl a set of three games to see how my spare shooting has helped my series. Another big thing I have been working on is timing. I am trying to make sure my body and arm are finishing at the same time.What’s your favorite thing about bowling competitively with a team? How does your coach help you stay together as a team? How do you communicate with your teammates on the lanes?
My favorite thing is that my team is always there to support me, whether I do great things or not so great things, like miss a spare. My coach keeps the negative emotions out of our heads and always makes us look at the positive things. We communicate by always staying up and slapping high fives, and then we work together to burn a line in the shot to open it up for us.What’s your most memorable tournament experience? What made it so special?
This past season, I was a freshman on the high school varsity team. We have to place in the top six in the sectional to advance to district, and in the top five in district to advance to the OHSAA State Tournament. My most memorable experience was shooting my first 300 game in district to help my team qualify for state. The very next week at the state finals, I almost did it again, shooting 298.Tell us about your recent 822 series. What was going through your head as the strikes kept adding up? Were you nervous, excited or both?
I was really excited about shooting my first 800 series and second 300 game. It really didn’t sink in until I got home that day. Nothing was really going through my head during the series. I was just trying to stay focused and have fun with my teammates to stay loose. Having fun with my teammates kept me from thinking about what was happening.Read More
Mark Allen, Dexter All AmericanStats
2007 Ohio State Pepsi Southwest District Champion (729 series)
2007 Columbus City Doubles Champion (Scratch Division)
2008 Cincinnati City Doubles Champion (Scratch Division)
2008 Columbus City Singles Champion (Scratch Division)
2009 Greater Miami Conference All league First Team (High School)
2009 Greater Miami Conference player of the Year (High School)
2009 Jr. Gold Qualifier
When Mark Allen enters Pikeville College on a bowling scholarship this fall to join a team whose heritage includes recent graduate Cassidy Schaub, the 2009 Team USA member who recently qualified for a Lumber Liquidator's PBA Tour exemption through tour trials to join Jason Belmonte and Osku Palerma as one of three two-handed bowlers on tour, he will not feel pressured to prove anything—he will be looking for the experience he has waited a lifetime to enjoy. "I feel like I have already proven myself by getting a bowling scholarship, which takes the pressure off of me," Allen explains. "Whenever I have gone to college tournaments as a spectator it seemed like it would be a lot of fun—it is always something I have looked forward to."While college competition as well as the Jr. Gold Championships that he has qualified for rank among the most anticipated experiences in Mark Allen's young career, another experience he has come closer to capturing is that of his idol, Lumber Liquidator's PBA Tour star Robert Smith. "I modeled some of my style off of him with my hinged-to-unhinged release," Allen says. "It's been beneficial. I went to a camp at the Kegel Center last week and was surprised to see that my rev rate was over 500." But if a relentless curiosity and willingness to learn are attributes of greatness, it is possible that much greater surprises await Mark Allen."They gave me a different kind of follow-through", Allen says of his Kegel bowling camp experience. "It has relaxed my swing and helped me stay through the shot more and be more consistent."Read More
E.J SmithThe Men’s Collegiate Spotlight is currently featuring Morehead State University freshman E.J. Smith. He is hoping to help the Eagles back to the Intercollegiate Team Championships for the first time since 2007. Smith and company started off their 2009-10 campaign in the right direction, winning the Kentucky Collegiate Classic in Lexington, Ky.Name: E.J. Smith Nickname: Wedge Age: 18 Year in school: Freshman Hometown: Winston-Salem, N.C. Marital/dating status: Single High certified game: 300 High certified series: 839 Bowling ball weight: 15 Favorite brand of bowling balls: Storm Favorite bowling ball of all time: Storm Trauma ERONE all-time best collegiate bowling memory
My best memory is our team winning the first tournament of the year, which was my first collegiate tournament.TWO biggest keys to collegiate bowling success
1. Communication
2. Believing in your teammates and coachesTHREE things you bring with you to every tournament
1. iPod
2. Abralon pads
3. Tape FOUR collegiate bowlers you most respect and/or admire
1. Mike Conn
2. Adam Voth
3. Ashly Galante
4. Jennifer WrightFIVE bowlers (past or present) that would make up your fantasy Baker team
1. Rhino Page
2. Sean Rash
3. Chris Barnes
4. Bill O’Neill
5. Kelly KulickSIX bowling balls you’d bring to ITCs or ISCs
1. Virtual Gravity
2. Virtual Energy
3. Furious
4. Fast
5. Rapid Fire Pearl
6. Ice StormSEVEN deadly sins of collegiate bowling – what should collegiate bowlers avoid doing at all costs either on or off the lanes?
1. Putting class second
2. Getting frustrated on the lanes
3. Too much partying on days off (never at a tournament)
4. Thinking about individual scores
5. Not trusting teammates
6. Second guessing moves on the lane
7. Staying up late before tournamentsEIGHT of my favorite songs are
1. Get Wasted - Gucci Mane
2. Empire State of Mind - Jay-Z
3. Echo - Gorilla Zoe
4. Dead Cell - Papa Roach
5. Indestructible - Disturbed
6. Fireflies - Owl City
7. Scream - Avenged Sevenfold
8. Bricks - Gucci ManeNINE of my favorite snack foods are
1. Pop Tarts
2. Sour Cream and Cheddar Ruffles
3. Oreos
4. Starburst
5. Sour Skittles
6. Popcorn
7. Ice cream
8. Candy corn
9. Tootsie RollsTEN minutes before a big match, I can be found (doing what?)
I can be found stretching, testing the approaches and ball fit and drinking some type of liquid, usually water or Gatorade.ELEVEN strikes in a row still makes me a little nervous (True or false)
True. Shooting 300 is always an accomplishment, and since I don’t have that many, every time I have been nervous.TWELVE years from now, I hope to be …
I would love to be on tour, but I hope to be a very successful physician’s assistant and bowling Regional PBA events when I can, winning multiple titles.Read More
Samantha MacinaThe Women’s Collegiate Spotlight is currently featuring University of Central Florida junior Samantha Macina. She is looking to once again be a crucial component to the success of the Striking Knights, who placed third last year at the Intercollegiate Team Championships. In their season-opening event for the 2009-10 campaign, Macina helped UCF claim victory at the Midwest Collegiate Championships in Wauwatosa, Wis. She placed eighth individually, joining teammates Jenn Boisselle and Kara Bunting in the top 10.Name: Samantha Macina Nickname: Samm, Lil Samm, Mighty Mite Age: 20 Year in school: Junior Hometown: Miami, Fla. Marital/dating status: In a relationship High certified game: 289 High certified series: 696 Best collegiate tournament finish: 2nd – 2007 Nittany Lion Kegler Bowling ball weight: 14 Favorite brand of bowling balls: Brunswick Favorite bowling ball of all time: InfernoONE all-time best collegiate bowling memory
My best memory is going undefeated the first two days at Nationals last year with our entire guys team (who unfortunately didn’t make it, but still came to support us), parents and friends in the back cheering us on.TWO biggest keys to collegiate bowling success
1. Hard work/dedication
2. PracticeTHREE things you bring with you to every tournament
1. Uniforms
2. Hair straightener
3. BlanketFOUR collegiate bowlers you most respect and/or admire
1. Stefanie Nation
2. Dan MacLelland
3. Shawn Naumann
4. Brigette HarrelsonFIVE bowlers (past or present) that would make up your fantasy Baker team
1. Stefanie Nation
2. Laura Fonnegra
3. Brigette Harrelson
4. Lindsey Coulles
5. Liz JohnsonSIX bowling balls you’d bring to ITCs or ISCs
1. Spare ball
2. Siege
3. Python
4. Wild Thing
5. Wild Ride
6. Maxxx ZoneSEVEN deadly sins of collegiate bowling – what should collegiate bowlers avoid doing at all costs either on or off the lanes?
1. Causing drama
2. Talking smack about others
3. Getting frustrated
4. Leaving bowling balls/shoes at home
5. Disrespecting your coach/teammates
6. Watching other teams
7. Losing focusEIGHT of my favorite songs are
1. Bless the Broken Road - Rascal Flatts
2. Worlds Greatest – R. Kelly
3. Heart of a Champion - Nelly
4. Man in the Mirror - Michael Jackson
5. Reach - Gloria Estefan
6. How Bad Do You Want It - Tim McGraw
7. I Gotta Feeling - Black Eyed Peas
8. We Taking Over - DJ KhaledNINE of my favorite snack foods are
1. Twizzlers
2. Cheese and crackers
3. Grapes
4. Bananas
5. Cookies
6. Starbursts
7. Carrots with ranch
8. Chips
9. Andes mintsTEN minutes before a big match, I can be found (doing what?)
I can be found playing Wa (a team game we play to focus and get warmed up), checking the approaches and getting focused.ELEVEN strikes in a row still makes me a little nervous (True or false)
True. I have never had 11 in a row, so I would definitely be nervous.TWELVE years from now, I hope to be ...
I plan on bowling in adult tournaments, being married to a great man with kids and working with kids in the juvenile system to help them change their lives.Read More
Michelle SecoursThe Women’s Collegiate Spotlight is currently featuring Bellarmine University freshman Michelle Secours. She joins a young and upcoming team, fresh off of back-to-back Intercollegiate Team Championships appearances. Prior to the start of the season, Secours reached the televised semifinals of the Teen Masters in Las Vegas.Name: Michelle Secours Nickname: Shelly Age: 18 Year in school: Freshman Hometown: East Rochester, N.Y. Marital/dating status: Single High certified game: 300 High certified series: 769 Bowling ball weight: 15 Favorite brand of bowling balls: Ebonite Favorite bowling ball of all time: Roto Grip CellONE all-time best collegiate bowling memory
My best memory is being the only freshman to start in our first tournament.TWO biggest keys to collegiate bowling success
1. Stay focused
2. Never dwell on a bad shotTHREE things you bring with you to every tournament
1. iPod
2. Fan
3. BallsFOUR collegiate bowlers you most respect and/or admire
1. Chris Bardol
2. Sarah Germano
3. Kara Bunting
4. Maggie ZakrzewskiFIVE bowlers (past or present) that would make up your fantasy Baker team
1. Kristie Petravich
2. Kara Bunting
3. Sandra Gomez
4. Liz Seibel
5. MyselfSIX bowling balls you’d bring to ITCs or ISCs
1. Evolve
2. Playmaker
3. Fury Pearl
4. Lane Breaker
5. Virtual Gravity
6. Spare ballSEVEN deadly sins of collegiate bowling – what should collegiate bowlers avoid doing at all costs either on or off the lanes?
1. Fighting (teammates/coaches)
2. Negative attitudes
3. Hitting or kicking of ball returns
4. Immature behavior
5. Giving up
6. Thinking you’re not good enough
7. Showing your frustrationEIGHT of my favorite songs are
1. Apology - Safetysuit
2. Find A Way - Safetysuit
3. The Moment - Safetysuit
4. Woe - Say Anything
5. Falling For You - Colbie Caillat
6. Matchbox - The Kooks
7. If Only - The Kooks
8. See The Sun - The KooksNINE of my favorite snack foods are
1. Goldfish
2. Powdered donuts
3. Velveeta
4. Celery
5. Cheese and crackers
6. Grapes
7. Carrots
8. Apple sauce
9. CookiesTEN minutes before the start of a big tournament/match, I can be found (doing what?)
I can be found listening to my iPod.ELEVEN strikes in a row still makes me a little nervous (True or false)
True. Of course it makes me nervous, but I think that’s a good thing because it slows me down and helps me stay focused.TWELVE years from now, I hope to be …
I hope to be bowling on a women’s professional tour and to be on Team USA.Read More
Project Two HandsAided by experts in coaching and training, a USBC writer attempts conversion to two-handed delivery.In many circles, United States Bowling Congress Publishing Coordinator Gene Kanak would be considered a fairly-successful bowler. He has authored two perfect games, a high three-game series of 804 and several league averages of 210 or greater. So why, at the age of 30, would he want to abandon the traditional style that has brought him this far in favor of something completely different? In his own words, “because the two-handed delivery is just plain awesome”.Learn More About Project Two Hands
Ask a ProIf you need help with your game, you’ve come to the right place because BOWL.com’s monthly video tips will provide you with the basic information you need to begin seeing improvement. Check back frequently to make sure you are seeing the latest tips, and then work with a USBC-certified coach or fellow bowler to practice what you’ve learned.When you feel ready, take the ultimate challenge by becoming a 
USBC BenefitsYour membership in the United States Bowling Congress helps grow the sport in more ways than you might imagine. Hear USBC members such as Kim Terrell-Kearney, Chris Barnes and 2008 USBC Senior Masters Champion Kenny Parks explain the many benefits that accompany your USBC membership, and how the growth of the sport depends on the participation of members like you. From its support of charities to shortened league seasons for busy youth and much more, the USBC has your best interests covered.Click Here
to view learn more.
New youth processing system is now availableThe United States Bowling Congress launched its new Internet-based system for processing youth league bowlers on Monday, Aug. 17.The new system will process membership, awards and averages for youth bowlers starting with the 2009-10 season. WinLABS will no longer be available to process youth leagues.Additional Youth Processing Webinars ScheduledUSBC HQ developed Youth Processing Webinars to help understand the new on-line application. We have had 15 insightful Webinars over the last few weeks and the feedback has been great. The next available session will be:
Thursday, Oct. 29 at 2 p.m. ET
To register, please contact Mike Larsen at mike.larsen@bowl.com or (800) 514-2695 ext. 8242.
Because the new method is an Internet-based system, associations and bowling centers will be able to process their youth membership from any computer with Internet access. The system also will allow for a more efficient means of system upgrades throughout the year without the need for software downloads.USBC staff is continuing to evaluate the processing system and more features will be available in the near future.Before using the new system, please take time to read the Quick Reference Guide to familiarize yourself with the process. While the guide is not a user reference manual, it should provide answers to several scenarios you might encounter.To view the Quick Reference Guide,
click here.To connect to the new youth processing system,
click here.If you have questions or feedback, contact USBC at 1-800-514-BOWL (2695).If you receive a certificate notice, please accept it and continue.Read More
2010 USBC Hall of Fame Ceremony2010 USBC Hall of Fame Ceremony Set for International Bowling Campus prior to U.S. Women's Open FinalsWhen members of the United States Bowling Congress Hall of Fame class of 2010 are enshrined, they will do so in a setting befitting the country's major sports. That's because the 2010 induction ceremony will be held outdoors May 12 at the International Bowling Campus.Inductions will take place in the afternoon before the live stepladder finals for the U.S. Women's Open that evening on the lanes of the International Training and Research Center . That event will be broadcast on ESPN2."Our goals in moving the inductions to Arlington are to spotlight the new International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame and International Bowling Campus while possibly growing the event into something big every year," said USBC Vice President-Media Pete Tredwell. "The inspiration for this idea comes from the annual baseball and pro football ceremonies. Those venues allow for large crowds and major media coverage. Plus having it the same day as the U.S. Women's Open brings more focus to both events."The 2010 event also will include a formal dinner in downtown Fort Worth on May 11. Fans will be able to purchase tickets to be with the new and past hall of famers and other dignitaries with the proceeds going to the IBM/HF.The Veterans and Meritorious Service part of the class of 2010 will be announced in November with the Superior Performance inductees to follow in December or January.Read More
J.R RaymondThe Men’s Collegiate Spotlight is currently featuring McKendree University junior J.R. Raymond. With an Intercollegiate Team Championships title already under his belt with Saginaw Valley State University in 2007, he has the experience and drive to lead the Bearcats to their first ITC appearance. A National Collegiate Bowling Coaches Association 2006-07 Second Team and 2008-09 First Team All-American, Raymond had the fourth-highest average in the nation last season, finishing at more than 213 a game.Name: J.R. Raymond
Stefanie NationDespite winning a title in her debut appearance on a PBA Women’s Series telecast and making two additional telecasts later in the same season, something was still missing for Stefanie Nation—something that only Team USA could help her regain.“The biggest thing for me was going from team to individual bowling. The only person you have to rely on is yourself,” Nation says of her transition from collegiate bowling at the University of Central Florida, where the Striking Knights fell just short of a national title in 2006 when they lost to Lindenwood in the title match, to bowling professionally.“I am so excited to bowl the Women’s World Championship, knowing that there are people behind me that are going to pick me up no matter what happens. When you’re out there alone it’s just you, there’s nobody there to pick you up on things like missed spares.”As much as Nation may have grown to value a team ethic at UCF, though, nothing instills Nation with a sense of something bigger than herself more powerfully than bowling with Team USA.“I just got chills thinking about it,” Nation says. “It is such a sense of pride to know that there are millions at home that we are representing, and that when we win medals, the country wins medals. It is not about us—it is about bowling.”The country won another medal on Nation’s watch recently when she took home the gold in the singles event of the 2009 Women’s World Championships on July 30, 2009.Read More
Shannon O'KeefeBy now, many are aware of Shannon O’Keefe’s achievements as a Gold-Medalist at the 2007 Women’s World Championships and a five-time member of Team USA. What few people may know, though, is that the origin of those achievements is found in one of the most unlikely places imaginable—a pair of shoes.The daughter of a former professional bowler, it was not until O’Keefe turned 16 that she first decided to join her brother on the lanes as her body began to suffer the consequences of a determined softball career in which, at just 15 years old, she finished among the top 160 at the 1996 U.S. Olympic softball team trials.“My Dad took me to Dick’s Sporting Goods and got me a teal plastic ball, and then I looked up and saw this pair of white Lind’s shoes with a teal toe,” Shannon explains.“I am not spending $150 just so you can look cute in a sport you’re not even good at,” her father said.“That was all I needed,” Shannon reflects years later. “As soon as you tell me I can’t do something, I will work at it until I prove you wrong.”Though Shannon’s father surely considers himself proven wrong by now, Shannon aims to prove much more, seeking to “win all the majors,” a goal inspired after she finished as runner-up at the 2007 Women’s U.S. Open in Reno. As for the father who once dared to doubt her?“He is one of my best friends,” Shannon says. “He has been with me on this journey from day one. To have somebody in your corner with you like that, I am very blessed.”Read More
Danielle McEwanDanielle McEwan of Stony Point, N.Y., made the most of her summer in 2009. McEwan finished her senior year at North Rockland High School with an individual victory at the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Championships, while helping the Red Raiders to a third-place team finish. She followed that performance with a semifinals appearance at the USBC Junior Gold Championships in Indianapolis.The 18-year-old right-hander capped her summer by winning the girls division of the Teen Masters in Las Vegas.McEwan recently took a break from her studies at Fairleigh Dickinson University to answer a few questions for BOWL.com.How often do you practice? What do you usually work on when you practice?
Bryce Rose PetraccoroBryce Rose Petraccoro of Lavallette, N.J., is well on her way to big things in bowling. The 12-year-old already has a USBC Junior Gold Championships appearance under her belt. She has worked with renowned coaches like Diandra Asbaty and Del Ballard Jr. She has even started a bowling club at her school. Most importantly, she has accomplished all of this while maintaining a 4.0 grade-point average at Lavallette Elementary School.Petraccoro’s high series is 653. She has 224 game and 583 series on Sport-certified lane conditions.Petraccoro recently took a break from her busy eighth-grade schedule to answer a few questions for BOWL.com.What do you think is the best way to get kids into the bowling center and onto the lanes? What do you tell your friends about bowling?It’s easy to get kids on the lanes. When I moved to my new school, they didn’t have any bowling, so I started a club. We have so much fun at Paydrome, and this year we’ll have over 50 members!I tell my friends everything about bowling, like how much fun it is to go to different centers and bowl each weekend. Mondays at school, we talk about the tournaments! I show them all my bowling stuff, like pictures with pros, signed pins, trophies and oh yes, mom and dad’s favorite, the scholarship money!Do you have any coaches? How long have you worked with them? Has it made a big difference in your game?Over the years I have worked with a lot of coaches. I have attended pro clinics with Parker Bohn III, Diandra Asbaty, Richard Shockley, Carolyn Dorin-Ballard and Del Ballard Jr. Every coach I have worked with has helped me get better. I have a special place in my heart for coach Ryan Scott West. My dad has been there for me since I was a pee wee. He keeps me focused and positive. He says the right things at the right time when I’m not doing well.How often do you practice? What do you usually work on when you practice?Unfortunately, I cannot get to the lanes as often as I’d like to, but I still do other things related to bowling. I exercise, spend time on BOWL.com and play other sports to keep me agile. When I do get the chance to go and practice, I break my time into two parts. After I’m done stretching, the first part I work on is my strike ball and target (second arrow) using each of my two 12-pounders, one shiny and one dull. The second part I work on is my spares. I use a plastic ball and play straight at my key pins. Before I leave, I try to hit all my key pins in order without missing!What do you like the most about tournaments like the Junior Gold Championships? How do you prepare for tournaments?What I like about tournaments like the Junior Gold Championships is that you get to compete with the best of the best, and it’s a great chance to experience what it will be like when I get to be in high school, college and if I pursue my career in bowling, joining the pros.I prepare for tournaments a certain way before the event begins. The night before, I eat curly macaroni with my dad’s special tomato sauce. The next morning, I eat a nice, healthy breakfast, make sure my iPod is fully charged and then I’m on my way to the tournament listening to my favorite songs. Once I arrive at the event, I check in and say hello to all the familiar faces that I see. About 15 minutes before the tournament begins, I stretch to make sure my whole body is loosened up and ready to bowl.Read More
Torrie DeckerTorrie Decker of Van Wert, Ohio, not only is a student of the game, but a teacher as well.The 17-year-old is a USBC Bronze coach and has aspirations of earning Silver status soon. She has passed on her knowledge of the sport to the young bowlers at Olympic Lanes, where she has been coaching for the past two years. She also has proven herself to be a tough competitor when she laces up her shoes.In 2007, Decker won the Freshman Girls Division of the Ohio 9th-12th Grade Singles Championships. She followed that up with a third-place finish the following year in the Sophomore Girls Division. Her most recent victory was at the 2009 Ohio State Pepsi Tournament, where she claimed the girls scratch title.She also has a 290 game to her credit, with a high series of 690.Decker recently took a break from her busy schedule to answer a few questions for BOWL.com.Are there any bowlers you look up to? Do you try to model your game after them? What is it about their games that you like?
Mary WellsMary Wells of Westerville, Ohio, has accomplished a lot in only one year of bowling at Westerville Central High School. As she starts her sophomore campaign, she looks to bring the Warhawks back to the Ohio High School Bowling State Tournament.The 15-year-old right-hander helped the Westerville Central girls reach the state finals for the first time on their way to a sixth-place finish during the 2008-09 season. Wells carried a 206 average throughout the season, which included a 278 game. She was named Rookie of the Year and MVP for Westerville Central.Wells was able to prepare for the upcoming season by bowling the USBC Junior Gold Championships in Indianapolis in July. She advanced to the semifinals, where she finished 35th.Wells recently took a break from her busy schedule to answer a few questions for BOWL.com.How often do you practice? What do you usually work on when you practice?I practice several times a week, depending on school related things. Most of the time, I’m able to practice five times a week. During these times, I practice many things. At the moment, it is mostly spares.Do you have any coaches? How long have you worked with them? Has it made a big difference in your game?I have had many coaches. Some have been for a long time and others just recently as I have begun to progress. My mom has been my coach since I was little. She is one of the main reasons I started the sport. But besides her, there is Jeff Robinson, who is also one of our coaches for high school. I have been working with him for a couple of years now. Then, there is the most recent, Ron Hatfield. We just started working together about eight months ago, and my game has progressed a bunch.What’s your favorite thing about bowling competitively with a team? How does your coach help you stay together as a team? How do you communicate with your teammates on the lanes?I would have to say my favorite thing about bowling competitively with a team would be having people with you. It makes it a lot less nerve-racking. Our coach keeps us focused and in line but still lets us have fun. I personally communicate with my teammates by just encouraging them. I hate when there is negative talk going on.What’s your most memorable tournament experience? What made it so special?My most memorable tournament would have to be the first tournament I won, which was the Sweet Sixteen tournament. This was so special to me because it was the first year I started bowling in tournaments competitively.Read More
Ryan WolfeRyan Wolfe of Kettering, Ohio, is not afraid of rising to the challenge on the lanes.As a freshman at Kettering Fairmont High School last season, Wolfe rolled his first 300 game to help his team advance to the Ohio High School Athletic Association State Tournament. At the state finals, he added a 298 game to lead Kettering Fairmont to a second-place finish.The 15-year-old right-hander recently added another 300 game on his way to an 822 series in his youth league at Poelking Woodman Lanes.Wolfe recently took a break from his busy schedule to answer a few questions for BOWL.com.How often do you practice? What do you usually work on when you practice?
Mark Allen, Dexter All AmericanStats
E.J SmithThe Men’s Collegiate Spotlight is currently featuring Morehead State University freshman E.J. Smith. He is hoping to help the Eagles back to the Intercollegiate Team Championships for the first time since 2007. Smith and company started off their 2009-10 campaign in the right direction, winning the Kentucky Collegiate Classic in Lexington, Ky.Name: E.J. Smith
Samantha MacinaThe Women’s Collegiate Spotlight is currently featuring University of Central Florida junior Samantha Macina. She is looking to once again be a crucial component to the success of the Striking Knights, who placed third last year at the Intercollegiate Team Championships. In their season-opening event for the 2009-10 campaign, Macina helped UCF claim victory at the Midwest Collegiate Championships in Wauwatosa, Wis. She placed eighth individually, joining teammates Jenn Boisselle and Kara Bunting in the top 10.Name: Samantha Macina
Michelle SecoursThe Women’s Collegiate Spotlight is currently featuring Bellarmine University freshman Michelle Secours. She joins a young and upcoming team, fresh off of back-to-back Intercollegiate Team Championships appearances. Prior to the start of the season, Secours reached the televised semifinals of the Teen Masters in Las Vegas.Name: Michelle Secours
