For the 2011-12 season, the United States Bowling Congress has created two special lapel pins to recognize adult members who shoot a specified number of Pins Over Average in a game or series.

For the game award, bowlers must roll a game that is 75 or more pins over their average. To receive the series lapel pin, bowlers must bowl at least 140 pins over their average.

"We always are looking for unique ways to recognize our members for outstanding achievements on the lanes," said Kevin Terry, USBC Managing Director of Marketing and Membership. "We talk with association leaders and bowlers about our awards and this is an example of something they have said they would like to see. We expect these lapel pins to be very popular award items."

The new lapel pins are not the only changes for the 2011-12 season. The ring awarded to USBC members who roll a 300 game, 800 series and 900 series will have a new look. USBC also has revised the requirements for Adult Awards earned under USBC Playing Rules 51a(2) and 51b(2).

Effective Aug. 1, 2011, USBC will recognize the following achievements bowled by USBC members in USBC standard leagues and tournaments:
Single game           Eligibility
275-299 Game        All averages
250-274 Game        215 average or below
225-249 Game        190 average or below
200-224 Game        165 average or below
175-199 Game        140 average or below
150-174 Game        120 average or below
125-149 Game        100 average or below

Series                    Eligibility
700 to 799 Series    All averages
600 to 699 Series    175 average or below
500 to 599 Series    145 average or below
400 to 499 Series    120 average or below
300 to 399 Series    90 average or below

USBC members are eligible for one award in each category during a season (Aug. 1-July 31).