Expert: - 8/1/2008

Question
QUESTION: I just started bowling about 2 years ago and I have already achieved a perfect game, and a couple of 600 series too... I bowl 200+ at least 2 or 3 times a week, with my cumulative average up to 171 from 146 last season. Since I started bowling there is almost nothing else I want to do but I have no idea what moves I should be making toward being able to bowl for a living. Because ultimately, unless I become injured, it's what I want to do. I am a woman though so I am not sure what avenues to take to work towards eventually being able to bowl with the pros like Linda Barnes... I am lucky that I have a coach (he found me thank GOD!) but he says that being a woman is a handicap in the sport. From what I can see he is right, but I also see that he isnt... Help??????

ANSWER: Cinnamon,
Linda Barnes, and many top players learned much about competitive bowling prior to and during their college bowling careers.

If you work with your coach, bowl on competitive lane conditions (harder than the Typical House Shot) and seek the strongest competition (sometimes bowling against the guys) you will learn to adjust, read lanes, pick equipment, and get a taste of the grind of bowling for a living.

Seek out challenges, experiment, invite input from the best minds in bowling that you can find:(thank you for asking me) competitors, pro shop people, local pros and weight everything. Because, bowling proactively (looking for changes or creating them, seeing things coming rather than reacting, predicting adjustments before losing ball reaction or carry) is the stock and trade of a professional.

Working at a center, or in a bowling shop (part-time) will get you closer to less expensive practice options and more information about bowling balls (surface management, layouts, core dynamics, etc.). A passionate bowler is great to have on staff, but be sure to be honest why you want to work in bowling.

You will find that the benefit of experience should not be ignored. Throwing a bowling ball is its own reward. You'll discover things about yourself (what you do when tired, excited, under pressure, etc.).

Good luck. Thanks for the questions. Knock'em dead.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I am past college age, unless I was to go back to college to bowl, I never competed in any NCAA sports.

Is that even possible? I know I can go back to college for education... how about for sport?

Also, are there any tournaments you would recommend I try?

Thanks again!!!

Cinnamon

Answer
Cinnamon,
The NCAA has very specific requirements for athletes. If you have the desire to compete in college, and pursue additional education, you should contact the Athletic Department of potential schools.

My younger boys competed/compete at a Division I school for wrestling. In Division I, I believe once you start college, you have 5 years to complete your eligibility, unless granted injury deferrals.

You have NCAA Divisions I-II-III, NAIA and other organizations (USBC) that have bowling programs.  Investigate the eligibility requirements before you start shooting tournaments. Some competitions might brand you a professional and disqualify you for collegiate competition.

Thanks for the questions, good luck.