Andy Varipapa

Superior Performance

Andy Varipapa
City: Hempstead
State: NY
Inducted: 1957

Varipapa developed trick shot bowling to its peak and through that ability starred in the first bowling film short, Strikes and Spares, in 1934. He made more such films than any bowler. He was a leading instructor and exhibition bowler, one of the first to make nationwide tours. Varipapa's bowling ability often was overshadowed by his trick shooting, but his achievements on the lanes have been almost legendary. At age 55, he won the 1946 All-Star tournament and the following year became the first to repeat as All-Star champion. He also won the BPAA doubles in 1947 and 1948 with fellow Hall of Famer Lou Campi.