USBC SELECTS USOC COACH OF THE YEAR NOMINEES
USBC coaches Jeri Edwards (Medina, Ohio), John Fukasawa (Applegate, Calif.) and David Pearson (Rochester, Minn.) have been nominated for USOC National Coach of the Year, Volunteer Coach of the Year and Developmental Coach of the Year, respectively.
The awards are organized through the USOC Coaching Recognition Program, which seeks to elevate the status of coaching as a profession and recognize the best coaches in the United States. Each Olympic and Pan American sport is invited to nominate coaches annually for the USOC Coach of the Year awards. National finalists for the awards, which recognize coaches for activity during 2007, will be honored at a special function at a time and place to be announced.
USBC Team USA head coach Edwards directed her athletes to gold medals in 11 events in the Pan American Games in Brazil, Women's World Championships in Mexico and Men's American Zone Championships in Guatemala. Under Edwards' leadership, Team USA's Bill Hoffman became the first American to win the men's division at the QubicaAMF World Cup in 12 years last November in Russia. Edwards, 45, is one of the sport's most respected coaches having earned Bronze, Silver and Gold level certification through USBC Coaching, the only bowling coaching program recognized by the USOC.
"This was an incredible year," Edwards said. "There's so much talent. This program has worked hard over the years to put it in position to be a force. You can see it in the performances of the athletes. This was maybe the most successful year for the team ever. We had a great team and many young players who stepped up to the plate and bowled well."
Now Edwards looks forward to a new chapter in Team USA history as professionals will join amateurs to represent the United States in international bowling competition. Last August, the World Tenpin Bowling Association voted to allow members of professional organizations to compete in international events, prompting USBC to change the selection procedures for Team USA in 2008. The men's team includes Denny's Professional Bowlers Association Tour stars Walter Ray Williams Jr., Chris Barnes, Tommy Jones, Parker Bohn III, Patrick Allen and Sean Rash.
"Last year closed out an era," she said. "I'm excited to have the pros be part of the team."
Fukasawa, a USBC Silver coach, has been coaching for 10 years in the youth bowling program at Fireside Lanes in Citrus Heights, Calif., where he was instrumental in developing a Saturday clinic for youth and adults. The 61-year-old - who was recently named 2007 USBC Youth Program Volunteer of the Year - has worked hard over the years to increase his knowledge and qualifications through the USBC Coaching certification program. Fukasawa began his coaching journey in 1997, earning certification as a USBC Level I coach. One year later he became a USBC Level II coach before earning USBC Bronze status in 2003. Fukasawa earned his USBC Silver status in 2007.
"John continues to give of himself because he truly enjoys helping others," said Debbie Haggerty, the Fireside Lanes youth director who nominated Fukasawa for the award. "He always has a smile and an upbeat attitude and relates well with the juniors. He is a great asset to our program, our center and our bowlers. He sets the mark for our other coaches."
"I'm flattered," Fukasawa said. "I do it because of the kids. The kids are very receptive. They come back from tournaments and let me know how well they've done."
Pearson has shown tireless dedication in his pursuit to help his athletes develop greater skills and better understand the sport of bowling. The USBC Silver coach worked with several athletes who qualified for and participated in the 2007 USBC Junior Gold National Championships in Buffalo, N.Y. Two of those athletes have qualified for the 2008 Junior Gold Championships in Detroit. Pearson, 53, was recognized among 2007 Bowlers Journal International "Top 100 Coaches."
"I am tremendously honored, humbled and thrilled to receive this nomination and recognition from USBC," Pearson said. "I am very thankful for the many phenomenal USBC coaches and instructors I have had the wonderful opportunity to work with throughout the years. Their help has meant the world to me, and without their dedication and true passion for our sport, I would not have achieved the level of skill and expertise I have attained and be the coach I am today."
For more information about the USBC Coaching Program, visit the Coaching section of bowl.com.
Friday, February 8, 2008
PBA TOUR
Of all the times Michael Fagan dreamed of capturing his first Denny's Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour title, never in his wildest dreams could he have imagined it happening the way it did last Sunday in Las Vegas.
Fagan and his teammate Danny Wiseman watched as Joe Ciccone missed a spare in the 10th frame that would have tied the match, giving Fagan his first title and Wiseman his 12th with a 210-208 win over Ciccone and Ronnie Russell in the 2008 PBA Exempt Doubles Classic at Red Rock Lanes.
The crowd at Red Rock Lanes along with Fagan and Wiseman sat stunned when Ciccone missed to the left and missed both pins, giving Fagan and Wiseman the title.
Fagan and Wiseman split $40,000 for the win and each earned an exemption for the 2008-09 season.
Fagan was an outstanding collegiate bowler at St. John's University and makes his home on Long Island.
The Denny's PBA Tour this week is at El Paso, Texas for the 2008 Bayer Classic at Oasis Lanes. The finals will be televised by ESPN at 12:30 p.m. Sunday February 10.
Of all the times Michael Fagan dreamed of capturing his first Denny's Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour title, never in his wildest dreams could he have imagined it happening the way it did last Sunday in Las Vegas.
Fagan and his teammate Danny Wiseman watched as Joe Ciccone missed a spare in the 10th frame that would have tied the match, giving Fagan his first title and Wiseman his 12th with a 210-208 win over Ciccone and Ronnie Russell in the 2008 PBA Exempt Doubles Classic at Red Rock Lanes.
The crowd at Red Rock Lanes along with Fagan and Wiseman sat stunned when Ciccone missed to the left and missed both pins, giving Fagan and Wiseman the title.
Fagan and Wiseman split $40,000 for the win and each earned an exemption for the 2008-09 season.
Fagan was an outstanding collegiate bowler at St. John's University and makes his home on Long Island.
The Denny's PBA Tour this week is at El Paso, Texas for the 2008 Bayer Classic at Oasis Lanes. The finals will be televised by ESPN at 12:30 p.m. Sunday February 10.
PBA and Epiphone Team up for PBA Custom Guitar Promotion
Fans have an opportunity to win a PBA branded guitar
SEATTLE (Feb. 5, 2008) — The Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) announced today it has teamed up with Epiphone for the second year to run a two-month long promotion that will allow one lucky fan a chance to win a custom PBA branded Epiphone Les Paul guitar signed by each of the winners during the 2007-08 Denny’s PBA Tour season.
The promotion will kick off this week with the winner being announced March 30. Fans can enter by visiting www.pba.com, www.bowlspace.com or www.epiphone.com.
In addition, Epiphone will provide two custom PBA branded Epiphone Les Paul guitars to the doubles champions in the second annual Denny’s All-American High School Championships, which airs Sunday, April 6 at 1 p.m. EST on ESPN.
The 2007-08 Denny’s PBA Tour is currently in El Paso, Texas, for the 2008 Bayer Classic at Oasis Lanes. The live ESPN-televised finals take place Sunday, Feb. 10 at 12:30 p.m. EST.
About the PBA
The Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) features the best bowlers in the world competing in National, Regional and Senior Tour events. The organization has more than 4,000 members spanning 13 countries, and nearly one million viewers tune-in to watch the Denny’s PBA Tour every Sunday on ESPN throughout the season. PBA sponsors include Aaron Rents, Bayer, Brunswick, CLR, ConstructionJobs.com, Denny's, Etonic, Flomax, GEICO, Go RVing, H&R Block, Lumber Liquidators, Motel 6, Pepsi-Cola and the USBC, among others. For more information on the PBA, log on to www.pba.com.
About Epiphone
Epiphone fretted instruments, amplifiers, strings and accessories are known worldwide for offering the best combination of quality and value. A division of Gibson since 1957, Epiphone is headquartered in Nashville. For more information visit www.epiphone.com.
Fans have an opportunity to win a PBA branded guitar
SEATTLE (Feb. 5, 2008) — The Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) announced today it has teamed up with Epiphone for the second year to run a two-month long promotion that will allow one lucky fan a chance to win a custom PBA branded Epiphone Les Paul guitar signed by each of the winners during the 2007-08 Denny’s PBA Tour season.
The promotion will kick off this week with the winner being announced March 30. Fans can enter by visiting www.pba.com, www.bowlspace.com or www.epiphone.com.
In addition, Epiphone will provide two custom PBA branded Epiphone Les Paul guitars to the doubles champions in the second annual Denny’s All-American High School Championships, which airs Sunday, April 6 at 1 p.m. EST on ESPN.
The 2007-08 Denny’s PBA Tour is currently in El Paso, Texas, for the 2008 Bayer Classic at Oasis Lanes. The live ESPN-televised finals take place Sunday, Feb. 10 at 12:30 p.m. EST.
About the PBA
The Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) features the best bowlers in the world competing in National, Regional and Senior Tour events. The organization has more than 4,000 members spanning 13 countries, and nearly one million viewers tune-in to watch the Denny’s PBA Tour every Sunday on ESPN throughout the season. PBA sponsors include Aaron Rents, Bayer, Brunswick, CLR, ConstructionJobs.com, Denny's, Etonic, Flomax, GEICO, Go RVing, H&R Block, Lumber Liquidators, Motel 6, Pepsi-Cola and the USBC, among others. For more information on the PBA, log on to www.pba.com.
About Epiphone
Epiphone fretted instruments, amplifiers, strings and accessories are known worldwide for offering the best combination of quality and value. A division of Gibson since 1957, Epiphone is headquartered in Nashville. For more information visit www.epiphone.com.
Monday, February 4, 2008
Here & There Column 2-5-08
Andrew Exner, 12, left, from the Tri-Valley Central School District received instruction from SCCC Generals pitcher Angel Betances during the opening of the 2008 Future Generals Baseball Academy held at the Paul Gerry Field House.Sullivan College Reaches Out To Young Baseball Players
We like the way SCCC Baseball Coach Mike Marra thinks not only about the future of his General's college team but the way he and the college reaches out to young baseball players in our surrounding communities.
Coach Marra thinks and lives baseball and will introduce American Legion baseball this summer to this area.
Registration and workout for the Floyd Keener Post # 315 American Legion Baseball will take place on Saturday, February 9 at 4:30 p.m. at the Pro-Prospects Training Center in Monticello for players ages 15-19 who reside in Sullivan County. Contact the SCCC Baseball office at 434-5750 ext. 4470 or go online for information at www.leaguelineup.com/post315rangers
The 2008 Sullivan County Community College Future Generals Baseball Academy is presently underway and continues through February 17 at the Paul Gerry Fieldhouse.
Coach Marra has put together an excellent program that is teaching our youth (ages 8-12 Rookies) and (ages 13-18) All-Stars everything they should know about the game of baseball.
On four Sunday's during the months of January and February Mike and members of the Generals college baseball team are giving hands-on instruction that includes defensive groups (instruction and drills for pitchers, catchers, infielders and outfielders. Hitting instruction at (offensive stations) include cage (short toss), tee work, soft toss, bunting and base running. This also includes live hitting. There is also classroom instruction for video and lecture presentations.
Members of the Generals team, under the direction, supervision and training of the SCCC coaching staff are offering county youth practice work-outs with the young baseball players in small groups of four to six players.
For the small registration fee of $80 each youth baseball player is receiving 10-hours of instruction, a future Generals T-Shirt, a future Generals Membership card, a participation award, a skill development notebook and a baseball evaluation.
Upon witnessing one of these baseball training sessions we can honestly say that Coach Marra and his team members and staff are giving our young players a first-class baseball clinic right here in Sullivan County in the middle of our winter season.
Winter is the time to prepare for the Spring and the combination of skill and smarts will hopefully be passed along to area youth attending this baseball academy.
This academy is an athletes dream come true because young baseball players will have the opportunity to learn that every time the ball is hit each player on the field has a job to do.
Learning what bat speed and hitting power is all about and what skills must be put in place to improve arm throwing strength and velocity are all part of the learning curve for young ball players.
We salute Sullivan County Community College, Baseball Coach Mike Marra and members of the General's baseball team and coaching staff for providing these learning abilities which someday could lead these youth to be future stars for our SCCC General's team.
-
We like the way SCCC Baseball Coach Mike Marra thinks not only about the future of his General's college team but the way he and the college reaches out to young baseball players in our surrounding communities.
Coach Marra thinks and lives baseball and will introduce American Legion baseball this summer to this area.
Registration and workout for the Floyd Keener Post # 315 American Legion Baseball will take place on Saturday, February 9 at 4:30 p.m. at the Pro-Prospects Training Center in Monticello for players ages 15-19 who reside in Sullivan County. Contact the SCCC Baseball office at 434-5750 ext. 4470 or go online for information at www.leaguelineup.com/post315rangers
The 2008 Sullivan County Community College Future Generals Baseball Academy is presently underway and continues through February 17 at the Paul Gerry Fieldhouse.
Coach Marra has put together an excellent program that is teaching our youth (ages 8-12 Rookies) and (ages 13-18) All-Stars everything they should know about the game of baseball.
On four Sunday's during the months of January and February Mike and members of the Generals college baseball team are giving hands-on instruction that includes defensive groups (instruction and drills for pitchers, catchers, infielders and outfielders. Hitting instruction at (offensive stations) include cage (short toss), tee work, soft toss, bunting and base running. This also includes live hitting. There is also classroom instruction for video and lecture presentations.
Members of the Generals team, under the direction, supervision and training of the SCCC coaching staff are offering county youth practice work-outs with the young baseball players in small groups of four to six players.
For the small registration fee of $80 each youth baseball player is receiving 10-hours of instruction, a future Generals T-Shirt, a future Generals Membership card, a participation award, a skill development notebook and a baseball evaluation.
Upon witnessing one of these baseball training sessions we can honestly say that Coach Marra and his team members and staff are giving our young players a first-class baseball clinic right here in Sullivan County in the middle of our winter season.
Winter is the time to prepare for the Spring and the combination of skill and smarts will hopefully be passed along to area youth attending this baseball academy.
This academy is an athletes dream come true because young baseball players will have the opportunity to learn that every time the ball is hit each player on the field has a job to do.
Learning what bat speed and hitting power is all about and what skills must be put in place to improve arm throwing strength and velocity are all part of the learning curve for young ball players.
We salute Sullivan County Community College, Baseball Coach Mike Marra and members of the General's baseball team and coaching staff for providing these learning abilities which someday could lead these youth to be future stars for our SCCC General's team.
-
Friday, February 1, 2008
Bowling Highlights Column 2-1-08
Local well-known certified Silver Level IBPSIA instructor Mike Luongo, far right, was part of an exclusive coaching clinic at the USBC Research and Testing Facility recently. Also taking part, from the left, were, USBC Coaching staff Member Bill Monce, Kegal Vice President Del Warren, USBC representative Kevin Dornberger, USBC representative Neil Stremmel and President of MoRich Enterprises Mo Pinel.
Michael Haugen Jr. In Action Last Week Luongo Was Part Of Exclusive Coaching Clinic
Local well-known and highly respected Pro-Shop operator and certified IBPSIA instructor Mike Luongo was part of an exclusive coaching clinic at the United States Bowling Congress (USBC's) Research and Testing Facility recently.
The USBC teamed up with the Kegal Training Center and MoRich Enterprises for an exclusive bowling instructional clinic on the lanes at the USBC Research and Testing Facility in Greendale, Wis. on January 11-13.
Advanced level bowlers were given the opportunity d to bowl on the USBC testing lanes with renowned classroom instructor and President of MoRich Enterprises Mo Pinel, USBC Gold Coach and Kegal Vice President Del Warren USBC Silver Level instructor Mike Luongo who is also the Northeast Technical Advisor for the MoRich Bowling Ball Company and a member of the Brunswick Pro Shop staff.
The world-class instructors taught the attendees the basics of playing the modern game by learning the keys to create a longer "flat spot" in the swing and the use of focal points for targeting and the sliding hinge start.
Each student also received a copy of the "See It, Feel It, Do It" manual and a CD-Rom called "Playing the High Friction Game."
Luongo explained that the flat spot is at the bottom of the swing at the release and it increases the bowlers margin of error in the modern game. It's defined, ":as the portion of the arc of the arm swing from the ankle forward, where the fingers are parallel to the lane," Luongo said.
Luongo, proprietor of Mike's Pro Shop in Middletown and Newburgh is a weekly contributor to the Bowling Highlights column with his Tip Of The Week.
In March of 2007 Luongo was elected to the Board of Directors of the International Bowling Pro Shop & Instructors Association (IBPSIA).
The Bowling Tip
By Mike Luongo
Bowlers: This week's tip is for any bowler who ends up out of balance at the foul line when delivering a bowling ball.
If you find yourself unable to finish your delivery in a strong balanced position, it may be a result of your follow through. It is very important that when you follow through on your delivery, you do not reach OUT with your arm, but UP with your follow through.
The reason?
If you reach out, the weight of the ball will pull your upper body forward and may cause you to lose your balance. If you reach up, you can stay planted in a strong, solid position to deliver your bowling ball with accuracy and leverage.
Mike Luongo is technically certified through IBPSIA as a Pro Shop Operator and Teacher. He is a Silver Level Coach with the USBC and is also the Northeast Technical Advisor for the Morich Bowling Ball Company (Morich Enterprises, Inc.). Mike is a member of the Brunswick Pro Shop Staff. If you have a question or subject you would like covered, he can be reached at 341-1694 or via e-mail at mikespro@warwick.net
Ed's Outlook
The Skills Center, a division of Strike Ten Entertainment (STE), will be establishing a new national recognition for bowling coaches and/or instructors through the presentation of a new award.
The National Coaching/Instructors Award, which will honor an outstanding bowling coach/instructor may also lead to the creation of a hall of fame for bowling coaches and instructors.
A task force has been formed to develop award criteria, annually review candidates as well as explore the creation of a bowling coaches/instructors hall of fame.
Applications will be available starting today.
The first award recipient will be recognized at International Bowl Expo 2008 in Orlando on Monday morning, June 23 during the bowling industry awards presentation.
Our hats go off to this great effort by this group to recognize the importance of our many bowling coaches/instructors.
This column is written by Ed Townsend, who is a consultant to the professional sport of bowling. Ed is also a member of the board of directors of the Tri-State NY USBC, where he serves as Publicity Director.If you have a topic that you believe would make good reading or have league scores, standings or tournament information, please give Ed a call at 439-8177 or send an e-mail to him at bowlgolfect1@yahoo.com.
Please visit our Web site at http://bght.blogspot.com/ where you can find additional bowling information.
Local Scores
Callicoon Lanes
Recent highlight scores in the Monday Hortonville Ladies league include a 197, 526 by Robin Luckey, Debra Loughrey 180 and Maureen Schlott 197.
In the Tuesday Delaware Valley Men's league Kris Rasmussen scored a 209, Brian Starr 237, Joseph Gager 214, Tim Ackerman 204, Mark Herbert 229, 600, Ken Darling 199, Mike Brockner 229, Charles Reichenback 213, Wally Warren 201, Mark Schriber 203, Russell Yerkes 210, Joel Turner 199, Jon Wayne 246, 224, 650, Karl Adams 224, John Fisher 202, 232, Tom Schultz 222, ,247, 647 and Ed LeRoy 199, 202.
In the Wednesday Mixed Businessmen league Tom Russell scored a 227, Damien Vanleluven 204, 211, Mark Rutledge 202, Alan Rutledge 197, Kory Kessler 211, Bruce Rutledge 277, 203, 661, Tad Doscher 240, 604, Mike Hubbard 202, Phil Jacobi 209, Roger Widmann 223, Alan Hendrickson 197, Bob Cady 236, John Hoffmann 237, 237, 221, 695 and Shirley Townsend 182, 501.
Fox Bowling Center
Recent highlight scores in the Monday Ladies Early Birds league include a 189, 196, 522 by Tammy Kane, Sherry Persbacker 210, 517, Melinda Ferris 204, 515, Sally Ballard 513, Jill Gorton 510Louise Botsford 215, 505, Anne Couse 192, 501, Kathleen Maltese 187 and Diane Miller 181.
In the Wednesday Men's Independent league Donald J. Marino scored a 236, 228, 263, 727, Rod Pudney 279, 211, 232, 722, Jack Hazen 222, 243, 247, 712, Daniel L. Wormuth 216, 216, 268, 700, William C. Gleim 238, 230, 224, 692, David P. Thomason 259, 236, 674, James Dibble 257, 227, 668, Arthur Gately 235, 207, 226, 668, Andrew S. Bullis 229, 225, 213, 667, Tony Wright 268, 220, 667, Mitch Persbacker 224, 221, 633, Robert Johnson 222, 214, 624, Allen B. Bullis Sr. 201, 224, 618, Paul Ignatovich 223, 218, 616, Neil Mosher 226, 198, 615, Jonathon Wayne 200, 220, 601, Glenn Bowker 227, Lee Stanton 219, Josh Rice 255, Charlie Reichenbaugh 220, Brian Drumm 221, Charlie DeCristofaro 232 and Robert Sobas 226.
In the Thursday Men's Deposit National league Tony Wright scored a 257, 256, 705, Harold Morgan 225, 279, 697, Shane Merwin 219, 234, 239, 692, Jeff Curtis 217, 246, 228, 691, Rod Pudney 248, 195, 235, 678, Andrew Bullis 232, 227, 214, 673, Greg Barnes 257, 221, 656, Steve Aitken 211, 243, 624, Cody Conway 266, 623, Robert Johnson 225, 224, 618, Al Bullis Sr. 265, 617, Bob Mills 197, 200, 213, 610, John Gurnick 245, 603, Carl Davis 202, 206, 600, Bill Gleim 246, 214, Brad Tracy 224, Lee Stanton 234 and Paul Fritz 223.
In the Friday Mixed Doubles league Andy Bullis scored a 225, 267, 668, James Dibble 235, 215, 643, Robert Johnson 222, 224, 639, William Gleim 199, 218, 605, Daniel Wormuth 211, 212, 604, Brian Tiffany 195, 203, 203, 601, Norman Ellis 199, 225, Craig Conklin 225, John Stanton 214, Nick Hazen 221, Anne Couse 196, 182, 539, Kristina Couse 203, 518Jennifer Smith 220, 509 and Michelle Brush 183.
Kiamesha Lanes
Recent highlight scores in the Monday Night Men's league included John Bartley with a 246 game, Nate Sanders with games of 203, 237, 204 for a 644 series, Willy Bartley 200, David Graham 202, Lloyd Bridges 244, Chuck McAllister 235, 202, 635, Matty Waichman 221, Mike Weiner 211, John Hoffmann 234, 279, 691, Walt Edwards 232, 225, 206, 663, Tom Belgiovene 223, 201, 248, 672, Paul Minton Jr. 237, 215, 223, 675, Richard Levine 212, 216, 608, Mike Cardo 208, Frank Amore 203, Brian Marino 214, 236, 607, Mike Mason 201, John Fischer 242, 266, 202, 712, Chris Merier 214, 225, 227, 666, Paul Durland 218, 214, 202, 634, Donald Durland 209, 228, 213, 650, Mark Wegener 237, 247, 673, Al Caycho 212, Jack Moylan 218, 230, 184, 632, James Ratner278, 253, 711, Kort Wheeler 225, 247, 632, Angel Rodrigluez 222, 234, 235, 691, Jaryl Scott 249, 244, 216, 709, Ed Lake 209, 216, 214, 639, Rick Lake 223, 214, 618.
In the Tuesday Mixed Firefighters league Larry Berens scored a 279, 679, Charles Blackburn 257, John Cascone 256, 654, John Hoffmann 677, Debbie Durland 202, 586, Carol MacAdam 191, 534 and Roberta Yakin 188, 552.
In the Wednesday Night Men's league at Kiamesha Lanes include Rich Henricks 202, Pedro C. Agapito 238, 279, 658, Al Caycho 200, Mike S. Weiner230, 280, 657, Tom Belgiovenne 200, 267, 649, Vincent Collura Jr. 247, 237, 671, Mark F. Wegener 213, 236, 642, Walt I. Edwards Jr. 246, 619, Donald Durland 234, 248, 211, 693, Paul E. Minton Jr. 258, 233, 649, Roy J. Sweeny 221, John Strang 257, 215, 665, Frank L. Gerow Sr. 202, Glenn Fraser 201, AllenJones 200, 205, 238, 641, George Battle 217, 601, Dean A. Shattuck 300, 238, 233, 771, Ed Guthrie 211, Al Frangipane 213, John Cascone 201, Russ Keesler 202, 204, Ricky W. Lare 254, 623, Frank T. Emmens 204, 213, 613, Christopher Magie 204.
Liberty Lanes
Recent highlight scores for the Liberty Elks Bantam League included Tommy Barkley with a 205, Melissa Symanski 253, Bryanna Keyes 215.
In the Liberty Elks Teenage League, John Kolari;;k scored a 210, 204, Ben Grisafe 224.
In the Monday Ladies League, Cathy Edwards had a 225.
In the Wednesday Men's League, Derik Irwin games of 201, 259 and 248 for a 708 series, Kevin Teller 245, 267, 680, Kyle Stevens 201, 278, 674, Paul Tuttle 216, 209, 214, 639, Paul Curry 222, 222, 626, Ralph Coney 214, 232, 621, Tom Skiff III 212, 206, 605, Jason Rogers 212, 214, Glenn Norris 221, 211, Wayne Fox 202, 231, Gene Smith 201, 214, Jim Fiore 225, Jerry Scandore 245, Roy Lepke 221, John Lopez 247, Robert Stewart 241, Rich Bivins 210, Harold Duffus 225, Rob Tuttle 222, Billy Curry 200, 218, Rich Vail 217, Tony Mears 214, Seth Goldberg 212, Ryan Lepke 212, Troy Morris 210, Eric Bankich 203, Rich Kushner 202, Gregg Skiff, 202, Peter Bertholf Jr. 201, Deming Roosa 201, Chris Stevens 201, Mark Carman Sr. 200.
In the Thursday Bud Men's League, Kyle Stevens 222, 237, 258, 717, Ralph Coney 216, 222, 234, 672, Kevin Brockner 227, 211, 637, Tom Skiff III 218, 213, 630, Todd Houghtaling 216, Gregg Skiff 202, Ricky Nichols 227, Derek Irwin 225, Chris Stevens 201.
In the Frudat Nuxed League, Kyle Stevens 258, 247, 237, 742, Robert Fix III 226, 254, 703, Ralph Coney 257224, 675, George Crary 212, 212, 232, 656, Kevin Brockner 223, 204, 214, 641, Rich Perry 219, 234, 638, Steven McAdams 202, 224, 616, Alan LaBounty 212, 223, JimFiore 209, Bonnie Carman 207, Rob Tuttle 204, Merlin Bound 202, Joel Brodie 202.
In the Saturday Mixed League , Keith Smith 214, 246, 215, 675, Rich Vail 235, 612, Phil Russell 224, 236, 609, Phil Norris 205, Sharon Russell 235, Kevin teller 221, Rich Edwards 219, Russell Bivins 203.
In the Sunday Mixed League, Rob Barber 218, Stew Ste;vens 227, Herbie Sklar 202, Keith Smith 233, Elisa Bound 201, Carly Sklar 233, Chris Stevens 212.
Local well-known and highly respected Pro-Shop operator and certified IBPSIA instructor Mike Luongo was part of an exclusive coaching clinic at the United States Bowling Congress (USBC's) Research and Testing Facility recently.
The USBC teamed up with the Kegal Training Center and MoRich Enterprises for an exclusive bowling instructional clinic on the lanes at the USBC Research and Testing Facility in Greendale, Wis. on January 11-13.
Advanced level bowlers were given the opportunity d to bowl on the USBC testing lanes with renowned classroom instructor and President of MoRich Enterprises Mo Pinel, USBC Gold Coach and Kegal Vice President Del Warren USBC Silver Level instructor Mike Luongo who is also the Northeast Technical Advisor for the MoRich Bowling Ball Company and a member of the Brunswick Pro Shop staff.
The world-class instructors taught the attendees the basics of playing the modern game by learning the keys to create a longer "flat spot" in the swing and the use of focal points for targeting and the sliding hinge start.
Each student also received a copy of the "See It, Feel It, Do It" manual and a CD-Rom called "Playing the High Friction Game."
Luongo explained that the flat spot is at the bottom of the swing at the release and it increases the bowlers margin of error in the modern game. It's defined, ":as the portion of the arc of the arm swing from the ankle forward, where the fingers are parallel to the lane," Luongo said.
Luongo, proprietor of Mike's Pro Shop in Middletown and Newburgh is a weekly contributor to the Bowling Highlights column with his Tip Of The Week.
In March of 2007 Luongo was elected to the Board of Directors of the International Bowling Pro Shop & Instructors Association (IBPSIA).
The Bowling Tip
By Mike Luongo
Bowlers: This week's tip is for any bowler who ends up out of balance at the foul line when delivering a bowling ball.
If you find yourself unable to finish your delivery in a strong balanced position, it may be a result of your follow through. It is very important that when you follow through on your delivery, you do not reach OUT with your arm, but UP with your follow through.
The reason?
If you reach out, the weight of the ball will pull your upper body forward and may cause you to lose your balance. If you reach up, you can stay planted in a strong, solid position to deliver your bowling ball with accuracy and leverage.
Mike Luongo is technically certified through IBPSIA as a Pro Shop Operator and Teacher. He is a Silver Level Coach with the USBC and is also the Northeast Technical Advisor for the Morich Bowling Ball Company (Morich Enterprises, Inc.). Mike is a member of the Brunswick Pro Shop Staff. If you have a question or subject you would like covered, he can be reached at 341-1694 or via e-mail at mikespro@warwick.net
Ed's Outlook
The Skills Center, a division of Strike Ten Entertainment (STE), will be establishing a new national recognition for bowling coaches and/or instructors through the presentation of a new award.
The National Coaching/Instructors Award, which will honor an outstanding bowling coach/instructor may also lead to the creation of a hall of fame for bowling coaches and instructors.
A task force has been formed to develop award criteria, annually review candidates as well as explore the creation of a bowling coaches/instructors hall of fame.
Applications will be available starting today.
The first award recipient will be recognized at International Bowl Expo 2008 in Orlando on Monday morning, June 23 during the bowling industry awards presentation.
Our hats go off to this great effort by this group to recognize the importance of our many bowling coaches/instructors.
This column is written by Ed Townsend, who is a consultant to the professional sport of bowling. Ed is also a member of the board of directors of the Tri-State NY USBC, where he serves as Publicity Director.If you have a topic that you believe would make good reading or have league scores, standings or tournament information, please give Ed a call at 439-8177 or send an e-mail to him at bowlgolfect1@yahoo.com.
Please visit our Web site at http://bght.blogspot.com/ where you can find additional bowling information.
Local Scores
Callicoon Lanes
Recent highlight scores in the Monday Hortonville Ladies league include a 197, 526 by Robin Luckey, Debra Loughrey 180 and Maureen Schlott 197.
In the Tuesday Delaware Valley Men's league Kris Rasmussen scored a 209, Brian Starr 237, Joseph Gager 214, Tim Ackerman 204, Mark Herbert 229, 600, Ken Darling 199, Mike Brockner 229, Charles Reichenback 213, Wally Warren 201, Mark Schriber 203, Russell Yerkes 210, Joel Turner 199, Jon Wayne 246, 224, 650, Karl Adams 224, John Fisher 202, 232, Tom Schultz 222, ,247, 647 and Ed LeRoy 199, 202.
In the Wednesday Mixed Businessmen league Tom Russell scored a 227, Damien Vanleluven 204, 211, Mark Rutledge 202, Alan Rutledge 197, Kory Kessler 211, Bruce Rutledge 277, 203, 661, Tad Doscher 240, 604, Mike Hubbard 202, Phil Jacobi 209, Roger Widmann 223, Alan Hendrickson 197, Bob Cady 236, John Hoffmann 237, 237, 221, 695 and Shirley Townsend 182, 501.
Fox Bowling Center
Recent highlight scores in the Monday Ladies Early Birds league include a 189, 196, 522 by Tammy Kane, Sherry Persbacker 210, 517, Melinda Ferris 204, 515, Sally Ballard 513, Jill Gorton 510Louise Botsford 215, 505, Anne Couse 192, 501, Kathleen Maltese 187 and Diane Miller 181.
In the Wednesday Men's Independent league Donald J. Marino scored a 236, 228, 263, 727, Rod Pudney 279, 211, 232, 722, Jack Hazen 222, 243, 247, 712, Daniel L. Wormuth 216, 216, 268, 700, William C. Gleim 238, 230, 224, 692, David P. Thomason 259, 236, 674, James Dibble 257, 227, 668, Arthur Gately 235, 207, 226, 668, Andrew S. Bullis 229, 225, 213, 667, Tony Wright 268, 220, 667, Mitch Persbacker 224, 221, 633, Robert Johnson 222, 214, 624, Allen B. Bullis Sr. 201, 224, 618, Paul Ignatovich 223, 218, 616, Neil Mosher 226, 198, 615, Jonathon Wayne 200, 220, 601, Glenn Bowker 227, Lee Stanton 219, Josh Rice 255, Charlie Reichenbaugh 220, Brian Drumm 221, Charlie DeCristofaro 232 and Robert Sobas 226.
In the Thursday Men's Deposit National league Tony Wright scored a 257, 256, 705, Harold Morgan 225, 279, 697, Shane Merwin 219, 234, 239, 692, Jeff Curtis 217, 246, 228, 691, Rod Pudney 248, 195, 235, 678, Andrew Bullis 232, 227, 214, 673, Greg Barnes 257, 221, 656, Steve Aitken 211, 243, 624, Cody Conway 266, 623, Robert Johnson 225, 224, 618, Al Bullis Sr. 265, 617, Bob Mills 197, 200, 213, 610, John Gurnick 245, 603, Carl Davis 202, 206, 600, Bill Gleim 246, 214, Brad Tracy 224, Lee Stanton 234 and Paul Fritz 223.
In the Friday Mixed Doubles league Andy Bullis scored a 225, 267, 668, James Dibble 235, 215, 643, Robert Johnson 222, 224, 639, William Gleim 199, 218, 605, Daniel Wormuth 211, 212, 604, Brian Tiffany 195, 203, 203, 601, Norman Ellis 199, 225, Craig Conklin 225, John Stanton 214, Nick Hazen 221, Anne Couse 196, 182, 539, Kristina Couse 203, 518Jennifer Smith 220, 509 and Michelle Brush 183.
Kiamesha Lanes
Recent highlight scores in the Monday Night Men's league included John Bartley with a 246 game, Nate Sanders with games of 203, 237, 204 for a 644 series, Willy Bartley 200, David Graham 202, Lloyd Bridges 244, Chuck McAllister 235, 202, 635, Matty Waichman 221, Mike Weiner 211, John Hoffmann 234, 279, 691, Walt Edwards 232, 225, 206, 663, Tom Belgiovene 223, 201, 248, 672, Paul Minton Jr. 237, 215, 223, 675, Richard Levine 212, 216, 608, Mike Cardo 208, Frank Amore 203, Brian Marino 214, 236, 607, Mike Mason 201, John Fischer 242, 266, 202, 712, Chris Merier 214, 225, 227, 666, Paul Durland 218, 214, 202, 634, Donald Durland 209, 228, 213, 650, Mark Wegener 237, 247, 673, Al Caycho 212, Jack Moylan 218, 230, 184, 632, James Ratner278, 253, 711, Kort Wheeler 225, 247, 632, Angel Rodrigluez 222, 234, 235, 691, Jaryl Scott 249, 244, 216, 709, Ed Lake 209, 216, 214, 639, Rick Lake 223, 214, 618.
In the Tuesday Mixed Firefighters league Larry Berens scored a 279, 679, Charles Blackburn 257, John Cascone 256, 654, John Hoffmann 677, Debbie Durland 202, 586, Carol MacAdam 191, 534 and Roberta Yakin 188, 552.
In the Wednesday Night Men's league at Kiamesha Lanes include Rich Henricks 202, Pedro C. Agapito 238, 279, 658, Al Caycho 200, Mike S. Weiner230, 280, 657, Tom Belgiovenne 200, 267, 649, Vincent Collura Jr. 247, 237, 671, Mark F. Wegener 213, 236, 642, Walt I. Edwards Jr. 246, 619, Donald Durland 234, 248, 211, 693, Paul E. Minton Jr. 258, 233, 649, Roy J. Sweeny 221, John Strang 257, 215, 665, Frank L. Gerow Sr. 202, Glenn Fraser 201, AllenJones 200, 205, 238, 641, George Battle 217, 601, Dean A. Shattuck 300, 238, 233, 771, Ed Guthrie 211, Al Frangipane 213, John Cascone 201, Russ Keesler 202, 204, Ricky W. Lare 254, 623, Frank T. Emmens 204, 213, 613, Christopher Magie 204.
Liberty Lanes
Recent highlight scores for the Liberty Elks Bantam League included Tommy Barkley with a 205, Melissa Symanski 253, Bryanna Keyes 215.
In the Liberty Elks Teenage League, John Kolari;;k scored a 210, 204, Ben Grisafe 224.
In the Monday Ladies League, Cathy Edwards had a 225.
In the Wednesday Men's League, Derik Irwin games of 201, 259 and 248 for a 708 series, Kevin Teller 245, 267, 680, Kyle Stevens 201, 278, 674, Paul Tuttle 216, 209, 214, 639, Paul Curry 222, 222, 626, Ralph Coney 214, 232, 621, Tom Skiff III 212, 206, 605, Jason Rogers 212, 214, Glenn Norris 221, 211, Wayne Fox 202, 231, Gene Smith 201, 214, Jim Fiore 225, Jerry Scandore 245, Roy Lepke 221, John Lopez 247, Robert Stewart 241, Rich Bivins 210, Harold Duffus 225, Rob Tuttle 222, Billy Curry 200, 218, Rich Vail 217, Tony Mears 214, Seth Goldberg 212, Ryan Lepke 212, Troy Morris 210, Eric Bankich 203, Rich Kushner 202, Gregg Skiff, 202, Peter Bertholf Jr. 201, Deming Roosa 201, Chris Stevens 201, Mark Carman Sr. 200.
In the Thursday Bud Men's League, Kyle Stevens 222, 237, 258, 717, Ralph Coney 216, 222, 234, 672, Kevin Brockner 227, 211, 637, Tom Skiff III 218, 213, 630, Todd Houghtaling 216, Gregg Skiff 202, Ricky Nichols 227, Derek Irwin 225, Chris Stevens 201.
In the Frudat Nuxed League, Kyle Stevens 258, 247, 237, 742, Robert Fix III 226, 254, 703, Ralph Coney 257224, 675, George Crary 212, 212, 232, 656, Kevin Brockner 223, 204, 214, 641, Rich Perry 219, 234, 638, Steven McAdams 202, 224, 616, Alan LaBounty 212, 223, JimFiore 209, Bonnie Carman 207, Rob Tuttle 204, Merlin Bound 202, Joel Brodie 202.
In the Saturday Mixed League , Keith Smith 214, 246, 215, 675, Rich Vail 235, 612, Phil Russell 224, 236, 609, Phil Norris 205, Sharon Russell 235, Kevin teller 221, Rich Edwards 219, Russell Bivins 203.
In the Sunday Mixed League, Rob Barber 218, Stew Ste;vens 227, Herbie Sklar 202, Keith Smith 233, Elisa Bound 201, Carly Sklar 233, Chris Stevens 212.
Professional Bowlers Association
LAS VEGAS – Michael Haugen Jr.’s chances to win his first career Major title looked bleak in the sixth frame of last Sunday’s H&R Block Tournament of Champions. What followed next may go down as one of the greatest comebacks in Denny’s Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour history, and was the most heartbreaking moment in the career of a man who has had many.
Haugen overcame a 50-pin deficit to defeat Chris Barnes, 215-214, Sunday in a title match that was as much about Haugen’s guts as it was about the crucial mistake Barnes made to miss out on his third career Major title.
The top-seeded Haugen had an adventurous week, which started in urgent care Wednesday night due to a sickness. He bounced back to make match play by qualifying eighth and went 15-3 in round robin to earn an automatic berth in the title match.
Barnes came into the finals riding a seven-game losing streak, the second-longest streak on his career, but he had a history of breaking losing streaks with a flair for the dramatic: he broke a career-worst eight-game losing streak in 2005 by winning his first career Major title in the 62nd U.S. Open
Things looked to be heading that way again when the No. 2 seed Barnes breezed past No. 3 Ryan Shafer, 257-205, in the semifinals and started the title match with strikes in the first three frames while Haugen left the 4-6-7 in the second and the 4-7-10 in the fifth giving Barnes what seemed like an insurmountable lead.
The match started to turn in the seventh when Barnes lost his carry and left three consecutive single pins, the third of which set off a stunning turn of events. Barnes whiffed the 10-pin in the ninth frame, giving Haugen the slightest of openings. Haugen, who had struck in the seventh and eighth frames, took advantage by striking in the ninth and then doubling in the 10th to force Barnes to double for the win.
The eight-time champion left a 2-pin with his first shot in the 10th and picked up the spare which still gave him a chance for the tie with a strike. Instead, he left the 4-pin this time, leaving Haugen to celebrate from the bench for the second time this season.
“You can’t give up, you just can’t. There’s a lot of pressure and prestige in this event and you just want to make good shots and not embarrass yourself,” Haugen (Cave Creek, Ariz.) said. “I looked at the scoreboard around the seventh frame and knew if he didn’t strike the rest of the way and I did, the most he could get was 220s and I could get to the 210s. I knew I could at least make him think about it. Anything can happen, a 7-10 or a 4-9, but I never thought it would be a missed single pin.”
This week marked Haugen’s first career Tournament of Champions event. He won his first career title in the 2007 Lake County Indiana Classic in November, defeating Wes Malott, 247-239. That day, Malott needed a strike in the 10th frame to win but left the 10-pin to give Haugen his first taste of victory. On Sunday, he became just the second bowler in history – and the first since Joe Joseph in 1962 – to win their first career title and the Tournament of Champions in the same season.
“A lot of people say your career doesn’t start until your first title and that the first one validates you as a bowler. What you do after that really defines your career,” Haugen said. “That first win definitely gave me confidence but mostly I’m just in a better place in my life. I made a commitment to just worry about myself and not worry about anything else. If I keep my karma good, things will be just fine.”
Haugen earned $50,000 and a two-year exemption through the 2009-10 season for his victory. Barnes (Double Oak, Texas) earned $25,000 for second and Shafer (Horseheads, N.Y.), who defeated PBA Hall of Famer Pete Weber in the first match, 215-213, took home $10,000 for third. Weber (St. Ann, Mo.), who was looking for his record-breaking ninth career Major, earned $7,000 for fourth.
The Denny’s PBA Tour will take a one-week break before heading to El Paso, Texas, for the 2008 Bayer Classic at Oasis Lanes, Feb. 6-10. The live ESPN-televised finals take place Sunday, Feb. 10 at 12:30 p.m. EST.
Denny’s PBA Tour
2008 H&R Block Tournament of Champions
Red Rock Lanes
Las Vegas, Nev.
Sunday, Jan. 27
CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND
Pos. Name, hometown Total/Games Money
1. Michael Haugen Jr., Cave Creek, Ariz. 215 (1 game) $50,000
2. Chris Barnes, Double Oak, Texas 471 (2 games) $25,000
3. Ryan Shafer, Horseheads, N.Y. 420 (2 games) $10,000
4. Pete Weber, St. Ann, Mo. 213 (1 game) $7,000
SCORES – In the first match, Shafer def. Weber, 215-213; in the second match, Barnes def. Shafer, 257-205; and in the final, Haugen def. Barnes, 215-214.
This is Haugen’s second career Denny’s PBA Tour title and his first career Major.
LAS VEGAS – Michael Haugen Jr.’s chances to win his first career Major title looked bleak in the sixth frame of last Sunday’s H&R Block Tournament of Champions. What followed next may go down as one of the greatest comebacks in Denny’s Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour history, and was the most heartbreaking moment in the career of a man who has had many.
Haugen overcame a 50-pin deficit to defeat Chris Barnes, 215-214, Sunday in a title match that was as much about Haugen’s guts as it was about the crucial mistake Barnes made to miss out on his third career Major title.
The top-seeded Haugen had an adventurous week, which started in urgent care Wednesday night due to a sickness. He bounced back to make match play by qualifying eighth and went 15-3 in round robin to earn an automatic berth in the title match.
Barnes came into the finals riding a seven-game losing streak, the second-longest streak on his career, but he had a history of breaking losing streaks with a flair for the dramatic: he broke a career-worst eight-game losing streak in 2005 by winning his first career Major title in the 62nd U.S. Open
Things looked to be heading that way again when the No. 2 seed Barnes breezed past No. 3 Ryan Shafer, 257-205, in the semifinals and started the title match with strikes in the first three frames while Haugen left the 4-6-7 in the second and the 4-7-10 in the fifth giving Barnes what seemed like an insurmountable lead.
The match started to turn in the seventh when Barnes lost his carry and left three consecutive single pins, the third of which set off a stunning turn of events. Barnes whiffed the 10-pin in the ninth frame, giving Haugen the slightest of openings. Haugen, who had struck in the seventh and eighth frames, took advantage by striking in the ninth and then doubling in the 10th to force Barnes to double for the win.
The eight-time champion left a 2-pin with his first shot in the 10th and picked up the spare which still gave him a chance for the tie with a strike. Instead, he left the 4-pin this time, leaving Haugen to celebrate from the bench for the second time this season.
“You can’t give up, you just can’t. There’s a lot of pressure and prestige in this event and you just want to make good shots and not embarrass yourself,” Haugen (Cave Creek, Ariz.) said. “I looked at the scoreboard around the seventh frame and knew if he didn’t strike the rest of the way and I did, the most he could get was 220s and I could get to the 210s. I knew I could at least make him think about it. Anything can happen, a 7-10 or a 4-9, but I never thought it would be a missed single pin.”
This week marked Haugen’s first career Tournament of Champions event. He won his first career title in the 2007 Lake County Indiana Classic in November, defeating Wes Malott, 247-239. That day, Malott needed a strike in the 10th frame to win but left the 10-pin to give Haugen his first taste of victory. On Sunday, he became just the second bowler in history – and the first since Joe Joseph in 1962 – to win their first career title and the Tournament of Champions in the same season.
“A lot of people say your career doesn’t start until your first title and that the first one validates you as a bowler. What you do after that really defines your career,” Haugen said. “That first win definitely gave me confidence but mostly I’m just in a better place in my life. I made a commitment to just worry about myself and not worry about anything else. If I keep my karma good, things will be just fine.”
Haugen earned $50,000 and a two-year exemption through the 2009-10 season for his victory. Barnes (Double Oak, Texas) earned $25,000 for second and Shafer (Horseheads, N.Y.), who defeated PBA Hall of Famer Pete Weber in the first match, 215-213, took home $10,000 for third. Weber (St. Ann, Mo.), who was looking for his record-breaking ninth career Major, earned $7,000 for fourth.
The Denny’s PBA Tour will take a one-week break before heading to El Paso, Texas, for the 2008 Bayer Classic at Oasis Lanes, Feb. 6-10. The live ESPN-televised finals take place Sunday, Feb. 10 at 12:30 p.m. EST.
Denny’s PBA Tour
2008 H&R Block Tournament of Champions
Red Rock Lanes
Las Vegas, Nev.
Sunday, Jan. 27
CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND
Pos. Name, hometown Total/Games Money
1. Michael Haugen Jr., Cave Creek, Ariz. 215 (1 game) $50,000
2. Chris Barnes, Double Oak, Texas 471 (2 games) $25,000
3. Ryan Shafer, Horseheads, N.Y. 420 (2 games) $10,000
4. Pete Weber, St. Ann, Mo. 213 (1 game) $7,000
SCORES – In the first match, Shafer def. Weber, 215-213; in the second match, Barnes def. Shafer, 257-205; and in the final, Haugen def. Barnes, 215-214.
This is Haugen’s second career Denny’s PBA Tour title and his first career Major.
BOWLING HALL OF FAME TRUSTEES SUPPORT BOWLING DEVELOPMENTS IN ST. LOUIS AND TEXAS
Two big developments could be the best things to happen to the industry in years
Bowling enthusiasts across the country are abuzz about two major real estate developments that could have significant impact on the game of bowling. The United States Bowling Congress (USBC) announced recently that it will move its headquarters to Arlington, Texas to form a major bowling complex. The International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame trustees voted to move forward on a proposed new Bowling Hall of Fame cited for development in St. Louis.
“I believe that these two major developments could be the best things to happen to the bowling industry in years,” said Pat Ciniello, Chairman of the Hall of Fame Board. “Our trustees fully support the USBC's decision to move to Texas and create a centralized administrative facility for the sport. We are also excited about the potential of redeveloping the Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame within the proposed entertainment complex of Ball Park Village, a project of the Cordish Group and the St. Louis Cardinals.”
Ball Park Village is a development to be built adjacent to the new Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team. The Village will be showcased as an entertainment area, complete with retail shops, restaurants, hotels and condominiums. Its projected annual attendance of nine million people will give the game of bowling tremendous exposure through the Museum/Hall to young and old alike. Ball Park Village hopes to break ground this year.
The St. Louis deal includes:
Demolition of the current facility.
A new Museum/Hall of Fame, constructed within Ball Park Village entertainment facility.
Interactive exhibits, theater, grand staircase and gift shop.
$8.9 million in project costs fully funded by sources other than the International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame and the bowling industry.
Ownership of the facility (other project entities will be tenants).
Projected attendance that is more than double that of the present location and exposure to potential new players.
Tremendous exposure for the industry that compliments the proposed Texas facility
A snag that is complicating the Museum/Hall move is a January 21 decision to deny the request of the Hall of Fame Board to transfer the “Deed of Trust,” stemming from a long-term note USBC has with the Hall of Fame to pursue the project with Ball Park Village. The USBC has indicated that they would like the Museum/Hall to be moved to the new Arlington, Texas complex.
“While we were disappointed with the initial decision by the USBC to deny our request, we are optimistic about future discussions of various options,” explains Ciniello. “We have offered to build a satellite Hall of Fame in the Arlington facility that we think would be a great compliment to the complex.” Ciniello added that he is interested in pursuing additional conversations with the USBC board of directors, and he is optimistic that they will reconsider its decision. “We invite anyone who is interested in the Hall to contact us and learn more about the project in St. Louis. We believe the idea of receiving outside money, rather than using industry dollars to build a state-of-the-art new facility within such an exciting project, is very satisfying and a real boost for the future of the bowling business.”
Ciniello and the Museum/Hall trustees are committed to staying in St. Louis and realizing the amazing opportunity they have to be a part of such an exciting development. “St. Louis is experiencing a significant social and economic renaissance and is poised to become a powerhouse in the Midwest and an important tourist destination. With an impressive facility in Arlington and one in St. Louis, the bowling industry is making a strong stand that we are a growing force in the sports world.”
The International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame collects and preserves the rich history of bowling, and uses that information to help promote the sport worldwide.
Two big developments could be the best things to happen to the industry in years
Bowling enthusiasts across the country are abuzz about two major real estate developments that could have significant impact on the game of bowling. The United States Bowling Congress (USBC) announced recently that it will move its headquarters to Arlington, Texas to form a major bowling complex. The International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame trustees voted to move forward on a proposed new Bowling Hall of Fame cited for development in St. Louis.
“I believe that these two major developments could be the best things to happen to the bowling industry in years,” said Pat Ciniello, Chairman of the Hall of Fame Board. “Our trustees fully support the USBC's decision to move to Texas and create a centralized administrative facility for the sport. We are also excited about the potential of redeveloping the Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame within the proposed entertainment complex of Ball Park Village, a project of the Cordish Group and the St. Louis Cardinals.”
Ball Park Village is a development to be built adjacent to the new Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team. The Village will be showcased as an entertainment area, complete with retail shops, restaurants, hotels and condominiums. Its projected annual attendance of nine million people will give the game of bowling tremendous exposure through the Museum/Hall to young and old alike. Ball Park Village hopes to break ground this year.
The St. Louis deal includes:
Demolition of the current facility.
A new Museum/Hall of Fame, constructed within Ball Park Village entertainment facility.
Interactive exhibits, theater, grand staircase and gift shop.
$8.9 million in project costs fully funded by sources other than the International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame and the bowling industry.
Ownership of the facility (other project entities will be tenants).
Projected attendance that is more than double that of the present location and exposure to potential new players.
Tremendous exposure for the industry that compliments the proposed Texas facility
A snag that is complicating the Museum/Hall move is a January 21 decision to deny the request of the Hall of Fame Board to transfer the “Deed of Trust,” stemming from a long-term note USBC has with the Hall of Fame to pursue the project with Ball Park Village. The USBC has indicated that they would like the Museum/Hall to be moved to the new Arlington, Texas complex.
“While we were disappointed with the initial decision by the USBC to deny our request, we are optimistic about future discussions of various options,” explains Ciniello. “We have offered to build a satellite Hall of Fame in the Arlington facility that we think would be a great compliment to the complex.” Ciniello added that he is interested in pursuing additional conversations with the USBC board of directors, and he is optimistic that they will reconsider its decision. “We invite anyone who is interested in the Hall to contact us and learn more about the project in St. Louis. We believe the idea of receiving outside money, rather than using industry dollars to build a state-of-the-art new facility within such an exciting project, is very satisfying and a real boost for the future of the bowling business.”
Ciniello and the Museum/Hall trustees are committed to staying in St. Louis and realizing the amazing opportunity they have to be a part of such an exciting development. “St. Louis is experiencing a significant social and economic renaissance and is poised to become a powerhouse in the Midwest and an important tourist destination. With an impressive facility in Arlington and one in St. Louis, the bowling industry is making a strong stand that we are a growing force in the sports world.”
The International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame collects and preserves the rich history of bowling, and uses that information to help promote the sport worldwide.
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