When you feel confident in your bowling game, you may be looking to compete against more than just your friends and family. At this point, you’re probably seeking out a bowling league. Bowling leagues have been popular in the US for several decades, bringing all kinds of players, from professionals to amateurs, together to engage in their favorite sport. Whether you’re already in a bowling league or looking to become a part of one, learn more about them here!
What is a Bowling League?
Bowling leagues are events that involve groups of three to five players who meet up a few times a month to bowl. During these sessions, teams will face off against each other in about three games per match. Every week, an average for each team is established.
As for winning a bowling league, there are often cash prizes awarded to weekly and seasonal winners. Some leagues even set up betting pools that accompany the game. This gives players something to work for beyond the drive of friendly competition.
Types of Bowling Leagues
Bowling leagues usually designate the types of people who can join them. For example, some leagues are only for men or women. Other leagues are categorized by the rules that the teams follow. We will outline some of the standout types of leagues below.
Mixed Leagues: These leagues include people of all genders. These are typically handicap leagues that adjust the score by adding pins.
Scratch Leagues: Scratch leagues do not play with handicaps and are therefore a good fit for experienced and competitive bowlers.
Youth Leagues: These leagues are usually run by a church, school, or local bowling center.
Senior Citizen Leagues: These leagues are usually made up of retirees and are often run through VA, assisted living, and retirement centers.
How Can You Join a Bowling League?
If you want to join a local bowling league, there are a few steps you should follow to ensure that you are prepared to do your best.
Find the best bowling center for you before deciding where you want to look for leagues.
Check with the front desk to find out who the league manager is and ask to speak with them.
Ask the league manager for a list of leagues scheduled to begin next season. Look for a league that needs a bowler at your skill level.
Once you decide on a league, meet up with your teammates and practice for a few games to get familiar with each other.
Try to find an alternate for yourself by speaking with friends and family.
Determine goals for the upcoming season by collaborating with your teammates.
Invest in personal bowling balls, shoes, and bags if possible. Encourage your team to do the same.
Your league secretary will help you join the United States Bowling Congress (USBC), so you can receive a sanctioning card to begin competing in the league.
How Can You Start a Bowling League?
Maybe you’re a go-getter, and you don’t want to join an already-established bowling league, but start your own. That’s certainly an option! Anyone who is passionate about bowling can create their own league. We will go over some steps for this as well.
Choose a local bowling center and determine their league requirements.
Recruit people for your team. You will need six teams with at least four players.
Choose a date and time for your leagues to play.
Give your league a fun name to stand out from the others.
Create a league season. Keep in mind that most bowling centers will want this season to last for about ten weeks.
See what resources your bowling center provides as far as record-keeping services.
The Best Place for Bowling Leagues
If you’re looking for a local hotspot that is perfect for a bowling league, Main Event is the place to be! We have an array of professional-level bowling lanes to meet your league’s every need. Not to mention, our centers have the best of the best when it comes to snacks and drinks to socialize and unwind with, or even to celebrate a big win! Find your local Main Event and ask about our leagues, or see if we can host a league that you’re starting! You can find your local center using our locator.