DeBiase wins first NEBA title

by Meghan Pero

DeBiaseInsideDave DeBiase, of Wallingford, Conn., secured his first New England Bowling Association singles title at East Providence Lanes in Providence, R.I., Sunday.

Despite having to battle tacky approaches due to the humid weather, DeBiase was able to best Alex Aguiar of North Dartmouth, Mass., 258-225 in the championship match.

“I was in shock and disbelief. It’s a great honor to win a NEBA title. I have nothing but respect for my opponents,” said DeBiase of his victory over Aguiar.

DeBiase has been bowling NEBA events for two seasons. Recently a league-only bowler, he made the decision to return to tournament play. “I love the sport and am happy to compete. I like the challenge of the various conditions and scoring paces."

Aguiar out scored the tournament’s top qualifier, Darrin Borges of New Bedford, Mass., 248-172 to earn his spot in the championship round.

Aguiar currently has NEBA’s high average (237.75). As 2009’s Bowler of the Year, Aguiar is no stranger to the winner’s circle, holding 13 titles to date.

“He bowled really well and deserved his first title,” said Aguiar of DeBiase’s performance.

Prior to this win, DeBiase’s highest finish was 16th place. A humble competitor, DeBiase said “I got some lucky breaks which I was able to take advantage of.”

DeBiase threw a six bagger to start the championship match, giving him an early advantage. However, the turning point of the match didn’t come until the tenth frame. Aguiar’s ringing ten-pin gave the win to DeBiase before he even stepped on the approach.

The event drew 132 entries; 32 bowlers secured a spot in match play. With an At-Large cut for the day was 1116 pins, Kegel’s Bourbon Street recreational pattern proved to be both a friend and a foe to the field.

“I love the NEBA format,” said DeBiase, who enjoys traveling to different bowling centers and competing on various lane conditions.

The field produced three 300-games; Norm Major of Enfield, Conn., Danny Khuu of Brockton, Mass., and Dave Kipperman of Rocky Hill, Conn., all achieved a perfect score.

George Tignor, of Winchendon, Mass., won a NEBA Senior title this weekend. Also hosted at East Providence Lanes, the Saturday event drew 41 entries; 12 bowlers advanced to match play.

Tignor, who owns four open singles titles, secured his first senior win over Jim Sansone in the championship match 247-202.

Bob DeMuccio was the events top qualifier, shooting 1280 for the day. In addition to leading the day through qualifying, DeMuccio threw a perfect 300-game.

Rounding out the top scores of the event, Tignor connected his championship match score with a 289 and a 299 for an 835 series.

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The next NEBA will be a singles tournament on August 25 and 26 at AMF Silver Lanes in East Hartford, Conn.

NEBA has run monthly scratch tournaments throughout New England since 1963. Since 2010, more than 900 bowlers from 15 states have participated. Just this year alone, more than 500 bowlers have entered in a NEBA tournament.

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