MEMBERS SPOTLIGHT

Pictured Is: Chris Klerk, closing out his second perfect game on lanes 11 and 12. On Saturday morning February 17th.

Editor’s Note: Chris Klerk Of Chandler, AZ. Rolled games of 300-300-244, for an 844 series. During his singles competition at the 67th MMA Open on Saturday Morning February 17th, 2024, at Bowlero Mesa. After the second and final weekend of play was completed on Sunday morning February 25th. He still unofficially, leads the Class D 210 and higher singles division. When the unofficial results were posted by the MMA on Monday February 26. Below he recounts how he was able to achieve this accomplishment.

By Michael ‘Chip’ Begg

Managing Editor – thetenpinexpress.com

Director Mesa Metro Association Board    

Mesa – – – This foursome of Chris Klerk, Kevin Jenkins, Andrew Cain, and Dave Cirigliano have been bowling together as a group for a long time now in local and state tournaments under the banner of Bowling Dynamics. And representing the Valley by doing what they do best on the lanes.

With that being said, on any given weekend any one of them can step up to the plate and deliver a big game and big series. That hopefully will carry them to an individual and team title at the end of the tournament competition.

At the 67th Mesa Metro Open at Bowlero Mesa on Saturday morning February 17th, they had a couple of those type runs. One of which came from Chris who started the singles event with the first 24 strikes in-a-row.

“I’ve been bowling for a long time, and that’s the longest string I’ve had to start a set,” said Chris. “It’s crazy to look back at it now and think I felt like 36 in-a-row was possible. I’ve always been amazed at people being able to shoot 900 and all the things that must go right for that to happen!”

Even though he didn’t roll that coveted 900 series on this particular morning, he still has to be very stoked at what he accomplished on lanes 11 and 12. By rolling games of: 300-300-244, for an 844 series. This was good enough for him to take the unofficial top spot in the Singles D 210 and higher scratch division, after the first weekend of play.

“I haven’t bowled a lot since Thanksgiving, so this was my second tournament since then. While my expectations weren’t high given how little I’ve competed. My goal every time is give my best to try and win,” he said, of his mindset going into a tournament. “For me it’s always a matter of taking it one shot at a time, and I did a pretty good job of that through the whole day.”

And yes, he did. If you were a spectator on this morning and watched him bowl. His first 24 shots were flush in the pocket. He really felt he could keep the streak going at the beginning of game three. But something happened in the first frame that even caught him a little off guard.

“What’s funny is that first shot of the third game (25th shot) was pretty good. Just a flush 7-pin stood. I definitely felt like I could start another string, but for whatever reason once the string ended, I found it harder to keep my ball speed in check,” he said, of his streak ending at 24 strikes in-a-row. “Maybe it was some left-over adrenaline and the letdown of the string ending that my focus wasn’t as good for a few shots. But I thankfully was still able to regroup to shoot a 244 to close out the set.”

The 844 series he rolled at the MMA Open is his new personal best high series. The ball he used was the Track Theorem. His previous high series was 834, shot at an ACBA back in 2009 at AMF Tempe Village.

“It’s a new ball, so it’ll be in my arsenal for a while and I wouldn’t count out adding a second one,” he said, of the ball that brought him his new highest series. “That ball is special!”

In fact, it was a transition in the lanes during his double’s competition. That told him it was time to switch balls to the Track Theorem.

“My ball reaction in doubles was starting to labor in the middle of game two, so once I made a ball change to the Track Theorem in the 10th frame of that game. I could quickly see it was the right move,” he said, of the ball switch. “While I could never have guessed how good it would be. I had a good feeling from what I saw and how well it went through the pins. As we finished doubles and went into singles.”

Bowlero Mesa is a house it seems to be a hit and miss for him when it comes to high scores. He does feel like over time, he has a better understanding of the characteristics of the house, and what he needs to do for more successful results. He feels he seems to have had more success there over the last season or two.

“I enjoyed that feeling all day, and it’s still a bit crazy for me to think back on it a few days later,” he said, of his two perfect games and 844 series. “It’s something I’ve thought back on a few times in the following days. It was a fun ride and a cool accomplishment.”

Chris is a Contract and Procurement Manager for a healthcare company called United Urology Group. He manages the Contracting Program for all locations nationwide and is also the Supply Chain resource for all locations on the West Coast. Bowling has always given him that competitive outlet and allowed him to travel the world to compete. While he doesn’t get the chance to do it as much as he did in the past, it’s been a great combination during his career.

When comparing this to other accomplishments, Chris has had in his career he said: “I have a really hard time picking one, as I have three accomplishments that I hold in very high regard. The first, is winning our USBC Open Championships Eagle for Team All-Events (2011). The second, is making Jr. Team USA and winning a silver medal in the World Championships in Thailand (2002). And the third, is winning the True Amateur Tournament in Las Vegas (2005). All three are special to me for different reasons. As for a goal for the future, I want to be able to say I’ve won multiple USBC Open Championship Eagles.”

It is really true what is said about international competition. You really do get caught up in the moment if you win a medal for your country. And when you are on the podium, when the national anthem is being played, pride and emotions do take over the moment.

“Representing the USA in at the World Championships in Thailand, was an amazing experience! Truly something I won’t ever forget. If I recall correctly, individually, I feel like it was an average performance. But I definitely remember pairing with Matt Gilman in doubles for our silver medal,” he said, of the experience. “After game one, we were near the bottom of the standings, and fought our way back up to 2nd at the end of the block. Truly an example of the reason to never give up!”

The second run for the group came from Dave Cirigliano and Andrew Cain as they lead the pack with a 1,538 in the Doubles D 420 and higher scratch division. Chris and Kevin Jenkins are in third place at 1,449. In the All Events 210 and higher scratch Division D, Chris is the unofficial leader at 2,204, Andrew is second at 2,188, and Dave third at 2,158. In the Team D 840 and higher scratch division, Bowling Dynamics currently unofficially sits in third place at 2,671 after the first weekend of play.

“Andrew Cain, Dave Cirigliano and Kevin Jenkins have been close friends for a long time and bowling with them is always enjoyable! I think we’re all lucky to have each other and we’ve all been fortunate to have success through the years at many levels,” Chris says, of their success. “It’s very beneficial to have that type of experience from each of us, and to talk about the game, the challenges we may be facing, and potential ideas to address them as we truly want to see each other succeed.”

Chris also won the New Mexico Open in 2009. He ran the stepladder, and in the title match he was fortunate enough to beat Josh Blanchard.

“These accomplishments are hard to compare,” he said “But both are memorable moments.”

And what is he thinking when it comes to his future in bowling?

“Bowling is a game you never master and is constantly evolving. As I’ve gotten older and responsibilities and priorities have changed, the time to bowl has reduced and I don’t necessarily have a “level” I want to be at in a given time frame,” he said, of his future outlook in the game. “I don’t know if my game is physically as good as it was 5-10 years back, but I think my knowledge of the game and equipment is much sharper and that helps make up for that. As time allows, I’ll always work to try and learn more and get better, and that takes discipline and hard work. With those qualities, I always believe you can achieve whatever goals you want!”

One could only imagine what kind of week it was for Chris. When the second weekend of play took place in the 67th MMA Open on February 24-25 at Bowlero Mesa. Wondering if anyone else would shoot a 300 game, and a high 800 series. There was a second 300 game rolled by Clay Fritz on Sunday morning February 18th, during doubles and singles competition. But, no one else would roll a high scratch 800 series. 

“With a score that big, if someone beats it, you just have to congratulate them as that’s a big accomplishment,” he said, of the second weekend of scores being posted on the Mesa Metropolitan webpage. “I would say I was wondering more if my All-Events total would hold up. As of the two, I felt like that was a more realistic score to be beat.”

He does not have to worry anymore. When the unofficial results of the second weekend of play, were posted on the MMA webpage on Monday February 26. In Singles D, (210 & Higher), he is still unofficially in first place. The top 10 in this Division are as follows: Scratch 1) Klerk, Chris T. 844 Chandler, AZ; 2) Cirigliano, David J. 760 Chandler, AZ; 3) Wakefield, Kyle 750 Mesa, AZ; 4) Wiley, Robert A. 749 Sun City West, AZ; 5) Pasalano, George A. 748 Mesa, AZ; 6) Finch, Shawn D. 732 Gilbert, AZ; 7) LaPointe, Greg 729 Phoenix, AZ; 8) Penwell, Justin A. 722 Casa Grande, AZ; 9) Tom, Matt A. 721 Surprise, AZ; 10) Cain, Andrew 720 Chandler, AZ.

In All Events, D (210 & Higher), Scratch 1) Klerk, Chris T. 2,204 Chandler, AZ; 2) Cain, Andrew 2,188 Chandler, AZ; 3) Finch, Shawn D. 2,162 Gilbert, AZ; 4) Aemisegger, Curtis 2,160 Sun City West, AZ; 5) Pasalano, George A. 2,158 Mesa, AZ; 5) Cirigliano, David J.  2,158 Chandler, AZ; 7) McIntyre, Travis B. 2,145 Tempe, AZ; 8) Ingram, Christopher G. 2,123 Tempe, AZ; 9) Artis, Wayne Jr 2,119 Gilbert, AZ; 10) Wiley, Robert A. 2,118 Waddell, AZ.   

The 844 series he bowled on the morning of February 17, 2024. Will always be a constant reminder of what is possible to achieve in the game of bowling.

For a complete listing of the 67th Open unofficial results. Please visit bowlmesa.com.

Don D Simon

Editor’s Note: For over the last 30 years Don D. Simon of Mesa, has always held his own and then some. When it comes to league play and tournaments, he feels the reason why he has been so successful on the lanes, is because of two things. Accuracy and a lot of luck.          

By Michael ‘Chip’ Begg

Managing Editor – thetenpinexpress.com.

Director Mesa Metro Association.   

          Mesa – – – Let’s have a little bit of fun with this parody for a minute.

          Don D. Simon says you will throw a strike.

          Don D. Simon says you will roll a 200, and 300 game.

          Don D. Simon says you will roll a: 600, 700, and 800 series during your bowling career.

          And Don D. Simon says you will maintain a 200 average or better during the course of a 34-week league season.

          For Don D. Simon, of Mesa, AZ., is one senior bowler in the east valley who takes the game of bowling very seriously. And the numbers he has been able to put up the last 30 years still continue to amaze even him. His composite average for the last 30 years is 206, and he won numerous league high average awards in that time span.

          According to Bowl.com, the highest average that he has posted during the course of a season came during the 2001-2002 campaign, when he averaged 219 for 96 games in the T-Bird Classic Trio League at AMF Thunderbird.

         He has one 800 series that he rolled on October 2, 2007, at AMF Glendale Lanes. That included games of: 264-279-280, for an 823 series. And four perfect games rolled on: November 6, 1994, January 9, 2002, March 18, 2002, and February 26, 2003.

         “Two of the bowling balls that I still use are over 25 years old – The 3-D Hammer & the Hammer Vicious. I don’t have a lot of the newer bowling balls” he said, following league play in the Bob Brown Classic at Bowlero Mesa on January 12,2024. “The other part of it is me, being accurate enough to continue to hit my mark and get some good carry to get decent scores.”

         He started out bowling in a St. Patrick’s church league back home in Youngstown, OH, where he grew up. And that is where he got hooked on our game. “The biggest thing to remember is to have fun, regardless of your skill level! And that your opponent is really the pins and not another bowler.”

        “When I was growing up, I always bowled in just one league and averaged in the 130s as a junior bowler,” he says, of his start in the game of bowling. “It was up to me to put the practice time in to get better. I would ask the higher average bowlers that I bowled with for advice, and tips on what I needed to do to improve my game. The biggest change I made early in my career was going from a conventional to a fingertip grip. I was looking forward to using this new grip. I remember the first time I threw my fingertip ball, and as it was heading towards the pocket, it kept moving left until it hit only the 7 pin! I said to myself this is going to take a bit of time to get used to! Well, I guess I got used to it, because for almost my whole career I have been the anchor bowler. I couldn’t guarantee that I would strike in the 10th frame if we needed it, but I could pretty much guarantee that I would hit the pocket.”

        By being a natural left-hander himself, it is easy to understand who his favorite bowler was.                 

       “My favorite bowler of all-time is Earl Anthony. He was so smooth and always cool and under control. It was a lot different bowling back then than it is now. There were wood lanes, and your choice of balls and surfaces was a hard black rubber ball! The wood lanes could wear differently because of ball friction.  Now we have synthetic lanes and many types of ball surfaces and weight blocks. Today I am a fan of Jason Belmonte.”

       An all-around athlete when he was growing up, Don also played: baseball, football, and ran track. He is a 1971 graduate of Chaney High School. Chaney produced several college standouts and NFL athletes such as: Former Heisman Trophy winner and NFL MVP, Frank Sinkwich. Jerry Olsavsky, Mike Zordich, Matt Cavanaugh, Anthony Floyd, Brad Smith, and Keilen Dykes. Youngstown is also home to Ray ‘Boom Boom’ Mancini and Actor Ed O’Neill (‘Married With Children Star’. He played Al Bundy). O’ Neill also had a tryout with the Pittsburgh Steelers. But he was cut in the final days of his invite to training camp, and lost a spot on the roster to some guy named Joe Green. And as they say, the rest is history. Mr. O’ Neill played high school football at Ursuline High School in Youngstown. And college football at Youngstown State. 

      “I was the Most Valuable defensive back, during my junior year of high school. Getting a scholarship to college to continue pl aying football was my ultimate goal,” he said, of his high school football career. “But a knee injury took that opportunity away from me. I feel fairly certain that if I didn’t have the knee injury, and was able to play in college, I would have played in the NFL.”

      He does have one memorable moment in these wide, wide world of sports that he is most proud of. “I also played organized baseball when I was growing up, and did steal home plate in a game,” he said, of the moment that is frozen in time. “I was the first player in my league to steal home. That was the most surprising thing to me, after finding this out later on. It was really great that my Dad was able to capture the moment on video.” 

      Don is bowling in one league full-time this winter, that being the Mid-Week Mixers on Wednesday night at AMF Mesa. He is also a sub in the Club 50+ and Bob Brown Classic Leagues at Bowlero Mesa. His high game this season so far in league play is a 289 bowled on 10/20/23.  And high series of 698, bowled on 1/4/24. He is currently holding down a 200+ average halfway through the 2023-24 season. All this being done after surviving emergency triple bypass open heart surgery in July of 2022 and a defibrillator implant in October of 2023.

      “I don’t have an answer as to why I have been as successful as I have in bowling. I guess it’s just my accuracy.”  “I started bowling to have fun. By practicing and doing the same things over and over again, is what got me to where I am. And remember, practice is different than competition. In practice, don’t worry about your score, just work on a part of your game that you want to improve, whether it is hitting the 10 pin, or hitting a certain mark. And the pins don’t have anything against you. They are inanimate objects, so don’t get mad at them when you don’t strike. You need to change something in your delivery. I think it has been my ball speed, angle of entry, ball rotation, some luck and a lot of practice that has helped me over the years.”

     His goals are fairly simple moving forward in his bowling career. Continuing to maintain a 200 average in league play, and roll a couple 300 games and 800 series.

    “It’s going to take a lot of practice and a lot of luck for me to achieve those goals,” he said, of the above. “I need to continue to bowl my own game, which means continuing to work on accuracy. I don’t throw a big hook, or have a lot of revs after my  . Its always been about finding my mark and hitting it, to find my way to the pocket.”

     And knowing Don as well as we do, he will find a way to get it done. He always does.

     Don said he would also like to thank his parents, Sam and Madeline Simon, for getting him started in bowling and driving him to his league play and practice. His sister and her husband, Fran and Ted, back in Akron for supplying him with equipment and accessories over the years. His Uncle Ralph in Dayton for always checking his scores that are posted online and for cheering him on from long distance. And his son David, [the best “little” boy EVER!!] who encourages him by saying “nothing less than a 300” when he goes out to bowl.

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CARL ONG

By Michael ‘Chip’ Begg

Managing Editor – thetenpinexpress.com

Director Mesa Metro Association

Phoenix – – – During his many years as a resident of Phoenix, Arizona. Carl Ong has meant a lot of different things to those of us who have the privilege of knowing him. Among those attributes have been a: successful business man and a really great friend of the bowling community.

His generous support to bowling, was showcased October 19-22. As he was the host and tournament sponsor of the Inaugural Agent Ong Open at Bowlero Kyrene.

Qualifying for the event got underway on Thursday, 10/19, with squads at: 9 AM and 2 PM. Friday 10/20, with squads at: 9 AM, 2 PM, and 7 PM. And Saturday, 10/21, with squads at: 8 AM, 1 PM, and 6 PM. And a Desperado Squad has also been added for 10/21. The squads’ format was a six-game qualifying round with one Final Cut after the conclusion of the Saturday 6 PM Squad. Entry fees were $225 on Thursday for the first entry or $275 for the first entry on Friday and Saturday, and $175 for re-entries. Entry fee for the Desperado Squad was $100, and its format was a two-game qualifier. 

“Theo Douthit-founder of the CBE and I discussed the idea of the Agent Ong Open in early 2023,” said founder Carl Ong.  “I was the one that approached Theo about my vision for the Agent Ong Open, and that I would like him to be the Tournament Director and to collaborate with CBE.”

The Inaugural Agent Ong Open was live streamed on BowlstreamTV. By being showcased on a national spot light, Carl is hoping the event will give the Arizona bowling community a big dose of exposure it deserves.

“I have partnered with BowlstreamTV with Emil Williams Jr,” said Carl, of the Agent Ong Open getting national exposure. “I hope it will not only provide exposure to the tournament but also inspire more people to take up the sport, and showcase Arizona and its part in being a Bowling Tournament Destination.”

The event had over 300 entries which included the main event, sweeper and desperado squads. In the Agent Ong Open ‘sweep the rack sweeper’, Matt Jones, of Phoenix, took first place. Followed by: Andrew Cain, Matt Zweig, Cortez Schenck, and Kyler Adams who rounded out the top five.

During the main event that concluded on Sunday October 22,  a huge Congratulations is in order to Matthew Zweig for winning the Inaugural Agent Ong Open! With a final score of 230 he bested Alec Keplinger who shot 225 in the final match. Zweig struck out his final three frames, bouncing back from a split in the 7th frame. This forced Keplinger to get a strike in the tenth frame, but an unfortunate 8 pin remained standing thus securing Zweig’s victory.

“The event turned out better than I ever expected. Truly humbling for the support from the entire bowling community,” said Carl, on how he felt the tournament went as a whole. “We are a bowler’s tournament.  We want to give an event that showcases bowling and its participants.  We will never sit on our success as we want to continue to evolve and do better in every coming event.” 

He was totally blown away from the positive feedback and won’t take anything for granted. Bowlers came as far as the East Coast of the United States and Canada, to participate in the inaugural event. They are already hearing from multiple bowlers outside the US, and from youth bowlers from all over. Who plan to bowl in the 2nd Annual Agent Ong Open. Already themed the Agent Ong Open ‘Strikes Back’, will once again take place in October of 2024.

” We want to continue to re-imagine tournament bowling and what it can look like in the future,” he said, of looking ahead to the 2nd Annual Agent Ong Open. “We will continue to grow our relationships with current and new sponsors.  We are not just a tournament; we want to become a destination bowling event.  As the bowlers continue to give feedback, we intend to listen. We intend to keep the dates very close to this year’s Inaugural Event and we are looking to expand the event with more opportunities for the bowlers and the fans in attendance.  More news to come in the coming weeks and months.”

BowlstreamTV did its job, and gave the event and the Arizona Bowling community. The exposure both entities needed to become successful on the national stage.

“BowlstreamTV was an overwhelming success. Emil Williams Jr is a class act and one of the best in the business.  He and Chris “RotoSchlem” Schlemer hit it out of the park and gave us an amazing voice and look that we couldn’t have had without them,” Carl said, of the coverage and exposure. “We had over 30K views in the first week and it continues to grow.  We look forward to having BowlstreamTV back next year!

 In case you are wondering how the Agent Ong Open got its name, it’s simple. Carl and his wife, Cathy, own a successful real estate business in the valley named The Agent Ong Team – Powered by My Home Group.

“Being a successful business person, to me, is about conducting my business with integrity, providing valuable services, and ensuring financial stability. As for being a friend to the bowling community, it’s a journey that evolved over time as I actively supported the sport and its enthusiasts.” 

The Agent Ong Open had a stacked field of talent from Arizona, and other parts of the western United States entered in the event. Among those who were entered in the event were local favorites: USBC HOF Andrew Cain, Kyle King, and recent AZ State HOF inductee Brett Wolfe.  National touring pros Pete Weber and Sean Rash, have also committed to entering the tournament. Weber, of course, is the son of PBA HOF Dick Weber.  

“This is a way for me to give back to the bowling community,” said Carl, on why he created the Agent Ong Open. “And create a lasting impact in the sport.”

But it goes further than this. 

“Bowling is more than just a game to me; it’s a source of joy and connection. It’s a sport that transcends boundaries, bringing people together in a unique way. I stay involved because of the love I have for the sport and the meaningful connections it has allowed me to make,” he says, of his many years of involvement in the game. “My success in bowling has been primarily a personal journey, and I don’t consider myself a competitive bowler anymore. However, my hope with the Agent Ong Open is to elevate the bowling scene in Arizona and the western part of the US, again is making it a destination for tournament bowling and fostering a sense of unity in the community. Bowling also holds a deeper significance for me, as it keeps the memory of my parents alive. Sadly, my father passed away when I was only 17, and my mother, Florence, followed him in January of 2018. But in a poignant moment, I achieved my first 300 ring, a symbol of perfection in the sport, and handed it to my mother as a farewell gift. I wanted her to take it with her, to show my father and let him know that I had finally achieved it, dedicating that milestone to them both.”

As if he does not have an impressive resume already, Carl was also the head bowling coach at ASU. It was a successful year for him there as well, as he took the Sun Devils to Nationals in Tulsa, OK.

“I’ve been involved in bowling locally for over 35 years, but my contributions have been modest,” he said, of his participation in the sport throughout the years. “The Agent Ong Open is indeed the most significant initiative I’ve undertaken for the bowling community, and it’s a testament to my dedication to the sport.”

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MARCIA DAULT

Tempe, AZ – – – When the Arizona State USBC, was looking for a nominee within the Mesa Metro Association. To present its 2023 Presidents Award at its annual state jamboree on August 11-13. They were without a doubt, looking for someone who was a leader, a friend and an idol to look up to in its bowling community for what that person has done for the game itself, on and off the lanes.

They didn’t have to look very far to find an individual who was a leader in the MMA bowling community. A friend to the MMA bowling community. And an idol for others in the MMA bowling community to look up to, for what they have done for the game itself, on and off the lanes.

“I received my Presidents Award today for my service to the bowling community,” said Marcia Dault, on receiving this award from the AZ State USBC on August 13. “The President of my local association (Mark Wojtusiak), nominated me for this State Association award!  It has been my pleasure and honor to serve this bowling community. Hopefully it was my long years of service to the bowling community, that got me chosen for this award from the state.”

The Arizona State Jamboree this year, was held on August 12th and 13th, in Tempe and it was hosted by Mesa Metro. At the annual meeting on Sunday, the following were elected and reelected to the AZ State Board of Directors.   

John Schofield 1st VP, Yuma and directors, Wendy Orth, Central Arizona, Robert Smith, Copper Counties, Terry Snyder, Tucson Metro, Wes Marema, Metro Phoenix, Alison Kozak, Metro Phoenix and the new addition Melanie Shepard, Yuma.  They will be serving a three-year term!

Metro Phoenix Team 1, won the Association Shootout. Members David Hurley, Katie Hurley, Bruce Lamb and Kippy Seiler took home the award and will hang out with Metro Phoenix for the next year!  

The Hall of Fame inductees this year are for Superior Performance: Brett Wolfe and Gene Hurley!  Congratulations gentlemen!

After word got out that she was the recipient of this year’s president’s award, the rest of the MMA membership agreed. That the AZ State USBC made the right choice as well.

Marcia has been living in Arizona since 1963. Having moved here with her parents from Grand Forks, North Dakota. And has been a resident of Mesa since 1979.

“I have been on the women’s board since 1977, and was there when we merged into one association. We were the fourth association in the United States to merge with the USBC,” she said, of the Mesa Valley Women’s Bowling Association (MVWBA). Merger to form the current Mesa Metro Association. “We have always had a good working relationship with the men and shared offices, so it was a very logical next step for us.

“We women agreed back then, it would be better to work with the guys,” she added. “Then to try and keep the women moving to the ABC. To join their spouses in membership and tournament participation.”

Now beginning her 46th year on the MMA board, she did not have a particular vision for bowling moving forward in the East Valley.

“No visions,” she said on directions into the future. “Just hoping good bowling for all.”

Tournament participation for the MMA membership in 2022-23 has been good. In July 2022 at the 53rd Champion of Champions it drew 44 entries. In September 2022 at the 4th Annual Military Tournament 28 entries. The 2nd Annual Turkey Trot in November saw 31 bowlers participate. In January 2023, the 32nd Senior Open drew 45 entries. Also in January 2023, the 18th Annual Youth Tournament had 29 youth bowlers participate. The 67th Womens Open in February and the 66th Open Championship also in February, saw 31 entries in the Women’s Open. And 89 entries in the Open Championship. Source – Tournament Committee Report from the Annual Meeting on June 11.

“I thought we did a good job with participation this past and present year, but there is always room for improvement,” she said, of the 2022-23 participation thus far. “Of course, any mention in the Desert Bowler will help as well. We have a very strong board that knows bowling and can assist with any issues that may arise. The MMA has grown into one of the best associations around. We need to help bowling centers continue to grow the sport and help them continue to keep leagues on the floor.”

Prior to the Annual Meeting on June 11, at Mesa East. The yearly dues were as follows: local, $10; state, $3; and USBC $15. Proposed changes at the annual meeting took place. Local went from $10 to $11 for the 2023/24 season. From $11-$12 for the 2025/26 season. And the final increase from $12-$13 for the 2027-28 season. In summary it would be a $3 increase over the next five years. Those in attendance passed the dues increase for a total of $3 to the local association for the 23/24 season by a vote of 27 for, and 10 against. In return the Mesa Metropolitan Association agreed to not have another increase for 5 years.

“If I remember correctly, 30 years ago I think I paid around $5 for dues. I have been a life member for over 15 years now and I don’t have to pay dues any longer,” she said, of the increase in dues over the years. Compared to green fees in golf, bowling is still one of the cheapest sports to participate in. “That privilege cost me $60 at the time. But it was money well invested.”

Marcia has been a fixture at Bowlero Mesa during the last 40 years as a dedicated employee, and an avid league bowler. Among the duties she has performed at the bowling center have been a: book keeper, sales director, and telemarketer. Now she concentrates more on keeping leagues up to date. By uploading weekly league results to League Pals, once they have been turned into her by the league secretary. 

According to Bowl.com, Marcia’s highest average came in the summer of 2009-10, when she averaged 189 for 48 games in the Shady Ladies summer league. The league bowled at Bowlero Mesa.

” I Started bowling in 1976,” she said, when she became an active competitor in the game. “Glad I’m still able to compete at a good level.”

And she is still able to compete at a good level. Last year when the winter season came to an end, she again posted a respectable average in the Club 50+ League at Bowlero Mesa by averaging 165 for 90 games. She has been able to adapt to change that the game has brought us over the last 20 years.

“2022-23 has been a good year, but winning cash at Nationals years ago, was also a great year,” she said, of still being able to compete.

This past winter, she was part of a team that won the Shady Ladies league title. This league bowls on Tuesday morning at Bowlero Mesa. As a result, she and her teammates got an invite to the annual Champion of Champions event. The 54th annual Champion of Champions tournament this past summer took place at AMF Chandler. It is a fun event that all league champions within the MMA, get to participate in. 

Her team, Ladies of the Morning, won the 4 Person, Women’s Handicap division, with a score of 2,687. Her teammates at the COC were: Vonita Hinton, Lori Dirks, and Leslie Marsh. 

With the success she has had in the game of bowling on and off the lanes, she is hoping that all of us will remember one important thing about our sport.  

“The game itself has not changed much, with the exception of the pins getting heavier. Of course, the lanes and bowling equipment have been modernized. But the actual game itself, is again, the same, she said of her last 53 years in the game. “Many people forget this is just a game and a form of recreation. Not such a serious thing that leagues have fights and arguments over rules and procedures. We need to bring the fun back into the game of bowling.”

Left to Right: Marcia Dault, Lori Dirks, Vonita Hinton, Leslie Marsh

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MIKE MATOSICH – New Hall of Fame Member

Pictured Is: Mike Matosich, center. Receiving his MMA HOF Award from MMA Vice-President Marcia Dault, left. He was inducted into the MMA HOF on June 11, for Bowling Superiority. Also entering the MMA Hall, was Mike Barrett for Meritorious Service.

By Michael ‘Chip’ Begg

Managing Editor – thetenpinexpress.com

Director Mesa Metro Association. 

Mesa, AZ. – – – After being involved in the game of bowling for the last 64 years. Our sport has a way of saying thanks to you for your participation, when you least expect it to. Mike Matosich of Mesa, found that out about two weeks before the MMA annual meeting on June 11. That he was elected to the MMA Hall of Fame by its nominating committee for Superior Performance. Joining Mike in the MMA Hall of Fame in 2023, is Mike Barrett for Meritorious Service. A well-deserved honor for both bowlers.

“I think it was about a month before the induction, that I learned that I was chosen to go in the hall. I was elated to hear the news that I would be going into the MMA Hall of Fame, said Mike, of when he was notified of going into the Hall of Fame. “I’m not sure if it was one accomplishment that helped me get into the hall. I think it was several things that helped. Like winning the Mesa Senior Masters, and being on the team that won the Mesa Open and the Mesa Senior Open. Plus, my league average over the years.”

He just made a good point about his league average over the last five years, in the Ramblin’ Gamblers League at AMF McCray Lanes. He has averaged: 220, in 2022-23; 225, in 2021-22; 230, in 2019-20; 221, in 2018-19; and 224, in 2017-18. He has bowled in the same league since the 2011-12 season. Also, according to Bowl.com, he has rolled eight 300 games since moving to Arizona and has 14 in total. He has also bowled in 13 Open Championships.

“We started bowling at AMF McRay when we moved here from California and have met some great friends in our league,” he said, of how he enjoys bowling at that center. “And AMF McRay is a well-run house with a good condition for bowling good scores.”

 With the success he has had bowling in leagues in the past and present, he was also given the opportunity to bowl on the PBA Tour. 

“I have been fortunate to bowl on the PBA tour for a while in the late 70’s with and against many great bowlers.  It would be hard to mention any of them without offending someone I forgot to mention,” he said, of what has kept him competitive. “And since we have lived in Arizona I have met and competed against some of the best senior bowlers that I have ever known.”

There is one thing though, that he will always remember about bowling on the PBA Tour. 

“What I remember about the great bowlers I have bowled against is that it was a pleasure to watch them bowl and try to learn as much as I could from them,” he said, of the experience. “I was very lucky to be able to meet and compete against them.” 

The MMA Annual Meeting, was held on Sunday June 11, at Mesa East Bowl. 41 members were present at this year’s meeting. The break down for voting strength, was 12 board members, and 29 association members. Board members re-elected to new three-year terms. Were Vice President – Marcia Dault. And Director – Michael ‘Chip’ Begg

“I would say that before being inducted into the MMA Hall of Fame, my biggest accomplishment was (when I was much younger) making a TV show in a1976 PBA doubles tournament with my partner Tom Wright,” he said, of that doubles event in 1976. “Our first and only match in the doubles was against the eventual winners, Paul Colwell, (a HOF from Tucson), and Don Johnson. So, we finished in fourth place. I feel I will bowl well in a tournament when I have good timing and I’m able to make consistent shots.”

He has also made a name for himself since moving to Arizona, and enjoys competing in the top events when his schedule permits him to do so.

“Since moving to Arizona, the thing, I am most proud of is winning five CBE senior tournaments and five PCBA senior tournaments,” he said, of more of his biggest accomplishments before being inducted into the MMA Hall of Fame.  “I was somewhat successful in a local tournament club called the Professional Central California Bowlers from 1968-1975.”

And what about the bowling talent he has seen in Arizona throughout the years.

“We (with his wife Mary), have been living in Arizona for 12 years now,” he said of how long he has been in Arizona I am not sure why the quality of a bowler is so high in this area, but I do know that there are many really good bowlers in the state and many younger bowlers coming along.”

Proof of the many younger bowlers coming along, was highlighted at the annual meeting. The 2023 Boy and Girl Bowlers of the Year are: 11 and under: William Costantino and Aubrey McLelland. And 12 and older award winners: Caden Meliska and Allie Rose.

“In my opinion, mainly because it is when I grew up in bowling, that the 60’s and 70’s were my favorite era in bowling. Some of the greats of bowling were bowling during this time. Since the 80’s and 90’s the game has changed so much with synthetic lanes and steroid balls,” he said, of his favorite era in bowling. “And again, in my opinion, with losing so many independent bowling centers. The “sport” of bowling is being lost and turning into a recreational business, which I feel really bad about.”

Mike is not the only one in his family, to be elected into a local bowling hall of fame.

“My wife Mary’s family owned a 16-lane bowling center in San Carlos, CA from 1949 to 1996,” he said, of his wife Mary. “Not only did she help run the center but she was a good bowler in her own right. By being on the Brunswick Advisory staff for 12 years and being elected to the California Hall of Fame in 2000. I’m very proud of her.”

He feels he is in a great place with his game right now, and staying competitive will be the continued key to success.

“Since retiring and moving to Arizona I feel I have been bowling the best I ever have,” he said, of where his game is right now. “I am not sure why I have been able to stay as competitive as I have at the age of 75. I think it could be because I am an “old school” bowler and think I have a fairly simple game and not much can go wrong, well most of the time anyway.”

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In other MMA news:

Congratulations to some of the members of the Ballbusters women’s bowling league for cashing in at Nationals! Way to represent Arizona!

Cindy Kuecker. Virginia Young. Sue Friedline. Skeeter Maxwell. Angela Wolfe. Meghan Enright. Abbie Hugill. Pam Weis. Cindy Gruben. Darlene Dolan. Terry Chynoweth. Tameisha Bell and Lee Fitzgerald.

The Ball Busters women’s bowling league bowls on Wednesday nights in the fall, at Bowlero Kyrene Lanes in Chandler. If interested in bowling in the league this year, you may contact them via their Facebook page @ Ball Busters.

Above courtesy of the Ball Busters women’s bowling league.

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Congratulations is in order for Revolutions Pro Shop. Of the Construction A men’s league, that bowls on Tuesday night at Bowlero Gilbert.

This team consisting of: Adrian Marasigen, Ryan Meredith, Jason Lenfest, Kurt Neish, and Andrew Lomuscio. Rolled a team score of 3,435 on May 2. Team scores were: 1,369 -1019 -1047. 

Lomuscio led Revolutions with a 299-801; Lenfest 279-697; Neish 279-691; Marasigen 279-685, and Meredith 233-560.

Equipment used by the five bowlers were. Two Black Widow 2.0 Hybirds. A Super Nova. A Motiv Venom Shock, and an Ocean Vibe.

The score rolled on May 2, has been forwarded to the USBC for award recognition.

No word yet, if it has qualified for a national scoring award.

10 Back Puts On A Great Show At MMA 67th Women’s Championship

Chandler – – – When four of the top female bowlers in the Valley. Get together to form a team in a Women’s Championship event. Chances are those in attendance will be able to watch some good bowling, and see plenty of pins fall during the process.

That was the case on Saturday afternoon February 4th. During the team event of the 67th annual MMA Women’s Championship at Bowlero Kyrene in Chandler.

Congrats to the team 10 Back, who posted a team score of 2,890 in the 660 + Above handicap team event. And a scratch score of 2,780 in the 660 + Above scratch event. When it was all said and done, the numbers they put up in each division, was good enough for them to claim the title in each division. 

Leading the way was, team captain Annie Riley. Who posted a 280, 762; Katie Hurley, a 299, 708; Virginia Young 247, 666; and Angela Wolfe  a 227, 644. Hurley missed out on perfection as she left a 7-pin on her last shot, on lane 17.

“I had a positive mindset going into the tournament, and telling myself to stay true to my own game and have fun with my teammates. I like having a good day on the lanes, so I was just hoping for an opportunity to bowl well and have fun,” said Katie Hurley, who was the lead off bowler for 10 Back. 10 Back is a pro shop in the West Valley, located inside AMF Peoria Lanes. It is owned by her brother-in-law, Ryan Riley. “This was indeed my first time bowling with Virginia and Angie on a team, even though we’ve been long-time friends! We put this team together, knowing we are all friends on the lanes and are also fierce competitors. It makes for a fun team when you can have fun and be competitive simultaneously.”

Team wise, they recorded scores of: 1020-952-808 for a scratch total of 2,780. Even though Katie is a little disappointed that her 12th ball did not put all 10 in the pit. She was happy with her 11-in-a-row performance, and contribution to the final team total.

“It felt so surreal to shoot 299 during the tournament! I felt good and had the right ball in the right part of the lane. That Hammer Envy is my best friend. Through the nerves, I think I may have gotten a little too excited on the last shot, but I was still happy with my game, even though I was just shy of the 300,” she said, of her 299. “I think we all went in with that positive mindset to have fun and to do what we love together, which is bowl! We all fed off each other’s energy, hyping each other up, finding the best line with the right ball, and constantly communicating about what we’re seeing on the lanes. That energy causes a chain reaction and we were able to set each other up for success on the lanes.”

While Annie had the highest series for 10 Back, a 762. Katie was not that far back, with a 708. As sisters, they always try to hype each other up through the good times on the lanes. As well as the bad.

“My sister and I have always been the type to hype each other up through anything, especially if we’re on the same team so, it’s nothing but love between us. It would have been awesome for both of us to put up those numbers together and I know it will come for us soon!,” she said, of their capabilities on the lanes. “Annie has a 300 under her belt and it was such a proud moment for me as her sister. As the years go by, we’ve been improving as a duo and this is just the beginning for us! I can’t wait for the day that we both shoot 300 together.”

As stated earlier, this was their  first time bowling together as a team, but it was super fun. And Katie enjoyed being on a team with strong female bowlers! She looks forward to bowling with these ladies again sometime soon! In the near future, they will be bowling the Queens Event and Women’s Nationals in Vegas! It also didn’t help to have Michael Fitzgerald, and Brett Wolfe, in the house watching them bowl. And giving them advice when needed.

“Communication between players played a huge factor in our success! It was definitely nice to have a cheer squad behind us! My Papa, Gene Hurley, and also my lifelong coach, offered tips and advice to us,” Katie said, of the advice they were given “We ended up figuring the lanes out pretty quickly, by working off each other’s ball reaction and that really played a huge part in our lane play tactics.”

This is Katie’s second title within the last 60 days. She won the 2023 MMA Queens event at AMF Chandler Lanes, on January 16th. She was the leading qualifier at the end of qualifying with a 1009 for five games @ + 9. She then went 4-0 in match-play, to secure the dub.

“It feels like our hard work is payng off on the lanes! There were amazing teams we competed against. So, I know I feel honored and grateful to have won the title for team! It truly felt like everything fell into place for us as a team,” she said, of her second MMA title. “It is so awesome to see the sport of bowling thrive, especially among women. The turnout was amazing and it feels so empowering to be surrounded by a strong group of female bowlers.”

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The official results from the 67th Annual Women’s Championships can be found on the tournament page of this website.

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LEE FITZGERALD

Editor’s Note: As she entered her 66th season of sanctioned bowling this past year. Lee Fitzgerald of Maricopa, AZ. Has accomplished more in the game, than most of us have. It’s her passion for the sport, and the rest of her family’s participation in the game. That keeps her going. Her son, Michael Fitzgerald, is making sure the family’s legacy in bowling continues to roll on.

Pictured L To R. Ron Swalley, Lee Fitzgerald, And Randy Walker.    

By Michael ‘Chip’ Begg

Managing Editor – thetenpinexpress.com

Director Mesa Metro Association

Mesa – – – For Lee Fitzgerald of Maricopa, AZ. She didn’t know it back then, that in the mid 50s, the game of bowling would forever be a part of her lifetime’s leisure activities.

It was not a question of if she would become involved in the game of bowling. But, more like when she would become involved in the game of bowling.

The answer started to come into focus for her in 1957.

“Canoga Park Bowl opened up a block from my home in 1957. It was an after-school league, where I met lots of friends,” she said, of her beginning in the game. “This is my 66th season of sanctioned bowling.”

Her first major accomplishment in the game of bowling, came in 1962. When she won a California double’s bowling event in Northern California. So, it comes as no surprise that the 50s and 60s are her favorite eras of bowling. It was back in this time period where you had to earn everything that you accomplished in the game. Lanes back in the day, were conditioned with. A spray can, lane applicator, and buffing pad. There were no automatic lane machines of today, were a computer chip sets the lane pattern to bowl on.

“I’m definitely old school when it comes to bowling. One ball, and you moved depending on the lanes,” she said, of the 50s and 60s. “This two-handed, 20 balls, extra/no extra holes are crazy. As a kid, I knew nothing about oil patterns.”

Here best performance to date was a 701 series. It was rolled in a Trios League at San Hi Lanes in San Bernardino. She had rolled several 699’s, until she finally broke 700.

“Back then, USBC (ABC), handed out 700 patches. All of the guys gave me theirs, trying to give me the vibe,” she said, of her first 700 series. “Then I finally shot mine, and they took the patches back. I Was told others would come easy… nope, not one since.  At a State tournament I shot 4 203 games in a row. This was at a State Tournament in Orange County in 2005. The PA announcer said I was in a rut… I would love to be in that rut again.”

During her 66 years in sanctioned bowling, she has attended 28 National tournaments (women’s), and 39 California State Women’s Championships. In 1968, she bowled in her first women’s nationals, in San Diego. Her mom and her friends drove to San Diego to watch her bowl. Mom was proud, that her daughter was bowling in a national event.  

“I was first to practice…,” she said, of her first event. “I stuck on the approach, and ended up on both knees.”

According to Bowl. Com, and since the 1999-2000 season. Her highest book average was a 188 for 78 games in the Sam’s Town or Bust League. The League bowled out of San Hi Lanes in San Bernardino, CA. Since 1999-2000, her profile on Bowl. Com, has also showed that she has consistently averaged in the 170s.

“I would love to be back in the 170’s, since I only take the slide step now. No umph behind the ball,” she said.  “Earl Anthony, was my favorite bowler. He was so smooth, relaxed, and easy going.”

She was a hairdresser by trade, and then later on worked for the County of San Bernardino. Her husband John, traveled as a medical repair technician. They have lived in Arizona since October 2018. She has noticed a couple of differences between California and Arizona.

 “Rules seem to be interpreted different,” she said, of the difference between league bowlers in California and Arizona. “Most leagues here take two balls each for practice. I always threw one each time and, you warm up quicker. Otherwise, you stand around and w minutes to throw again.”

She was inducted into the Citrus Belt USBC HOF in 2007. John was inducted in 2004. They were the first married couple to be inducted into the Citrus Belt USBC. John was for Performance, and Lee for Meritorious Service. In 2004 and again in 2017, Lee was named a California Youth Coach of the Year. 

If the name Fitzgerald sounds familiar to the bowling community in Arizona. It should. Yes, her son, is Michael Fitzgerald.

“Michael came to AZ to bowl with ASU in 2001 and stayed. He was winning various tournaments and telling us about it, since we were in CA,” mom said, of when her son came to Arizona. “John (his father), even came out one weekend to bowl a tournament with him. He joined the PBA in 2019, and has placed in the top 10. He has cashed most of the time. He is still looking for his first title.” 

Lee knew early on, that her son was destined for good things to come in the game of bowling. Michael made his debut in the game, during the 1988 season, and at only three years old at San Hi Lanes. During the 2001-02 season. He would post a 227 average for 96 games. In the Junior Scholarship Classic League. This league bowled out of AMF Thunderbird Lanes in Phoenix. The 227 average was also his first book average in Arizona, when he was a red shirt freshman at ASU.

“I fully support my boys in whatever they do,” she said, of her son being involved in the game as well. “Michael is fulfilling something that I once thought I would do. Back then, a women had to hold a 185 average for two years. It’s nothing like it is now. I made the 185 average, but didn’t keep it there. Work got in the way. As for my latest accomplishment. I never even thought my scores were that high, for my division. I was first place in the Phoenix Open in April 2022.” 

Even though Fitz has not won a PBA event yet, he has rolled: 18 300 games and nine 800 series. His latest 300 game came this past October 27, 2022. In the Tri-City Men’s League at Bowlero Kyrene. His most recent 800 series came during an Arizona State tournament last year. 

“I ran a youth program, and both of my boys started bowling at a young age,” she said, of when her sons got into the game. “Michael was more into it, than his brother William. But they knew I left for the bowling center at 8 am on Saturday mornings, with or without them. I kept Michael involved in bowling, due to running the youth program for 33 years. As he became a little older, I had Michael help with some of the kids. I ran scratch tournaments and took them everywhere to bowl.”   

Michael won an inaugural Junior Scratch Tour event that jump started his career. The JST was similar to today’s Junior Bowlers Tour.  

“Even though I am a certified coach, I don’t say anything to Michael unless he asked,” she said, on when and if she gives him advice. “I have always tried to encourage both boys, as long as you try and do what you can. It’s not always easy, but keep the focus on you and not your opponents.”

Bowling is definitely a family affair in the Fitzgerald household. Together with her husband John, they are proprietors of Senior Funtime.

“Senior Funtime is a four day No-Tap tournament which we bought last year,” she said, of the event. “We bowled it for many years. We had so much fun bowling it, that we didn’t want to see it fold. So, it’s ours. It’s held in Vegas at the Orleans every January and July.”

The format of the tournament is as follows. On Sunday there are two squads for Blind Draw, where the computer picks your partner. On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, it has three squads of doubles. All three squads are combined into one. They are divided into three divisions based on team averages. Each day is a separate tournament. Tuesday night is an optional singles event. Brackets, and side pots are also available.

If this is something that you would be interested in bowling in. Please contact Lee at: www.seniorfuntime.org.

Arizona Bowling News

December 10, 2022

Updated December 11, 2022  

2023 Queens Champion

Pictured Is: 2023 MMA Queens Champion Katie Hurley, left. And MMA Assc Manager Leslie Marsh. Photo courtesy of the MMA.

Editors Note: After never having bowled before at AMF Chandler Lanes. Katie Hurley of Peoria, decided to take the plunge on January 15, and bowl in the Mesa Metro Queens event. She did not go home disappointed. She led the field of 14 hopefuls at the end of qualifying at +9. And ran the table in match play, with a 4-0 record, to secure this years title. She was an accomplished junior bowler in the West Valley, who got her start at AMF Peoria Lanes. She bowled collegiately at UAB in Birmingham, Al.

By Michael ‘Chip’ Begg

Managing Editor – thetenpinexpress.com

Director Mesa Metro Association   

Chandler, AZ. – – – There is one Cardinal Rule that is not to be broken, when it comes to bowling tournaments taking place in the East Valley.

And that Cardinal Rule is: what happens in the East Valley, stays in the East Valley. 

But, someone in the East Valley, forgot to send the memo to Katie Hurley.

Hurley, a right-hander from Peoria, made the one-hour trip east to Chandler on Sunday January 15. To bowl in the 2023 Mesa Metro Queens event, at AMF Chandler Lanes. She did not go home disappointed when the tournament finally came to an end around 3:30 that afternoon. After leading the qualifying round at +9, she went undefeated in match play, 4-0, to secure this year’s title.

“At this stage in my life, though I am still young and have many years of bowling ahead of me, I feel a strong sense of determination and a fighting spirit within. I have goals I want to achieve, and I want to use these developmental years to chase after those dreams,” she said, following the event. “Winning a Queens title in my young career feels amazing! Winning this title feels like everything is falling into place while igniting a sense of hope in me that I’m just getting started. If I were the youngest to win this event, (she just turned 23), that would make the whole experience feel even more meaningful to me.” 

Having never bowled at AMF Chandler before, until January 15. She will be the first one to admit, that she didn’t know what to expect there until it became time to bowl.

“This was my first-time bowling at AMF Chandler and I went into this tournament with that same positive, determined mindset I always do!,” she said, of her first experience at AMF Chandler. “I didn’t have any expectations other than that this tournament was going to be another well-run event thanks to Mesa Metro!”

But when the qualifying round got underway at 10:30, her competitiveness began to take over and it showed from the scores she was able to put together. She rolled games in qualifying of: 213-180-238-194-184, for a 1009 total.

In the double elimination match play round, she again, went 4-0. She defeated Karol  Przybytek, 184-157;  Sun Jones, 278-158; and Mary Sturm twice. 198-166; and 237-157 for the title.

“I finished the qualifying round at +9 and felt like I just had to keep making my spares and hitting the pocket. After qualifying, I felt locked in physically and mentally and really focused on staying positive!,” she said, of her qualifying round. “When I shot my 278 game in match play, I felt even more locked in. Everything was clicking and I just needed to stay true to my line and keep chipping away.”

She said she started to feel the vibe and support during the qualifying round.

“In general, the atmosphere of a tournament is so different compared to a regular league night or practice session. I personally love the atmosphere of a tournament and I definitely enjoyed the environment and people I was surrounded by during the tournament,” she said, of the MMA Queens. “It felt surreal to be in the finals and to have a group of people cheering us on. The vibe turns electric, with every shot becoming more meaningful than the last. I received so much amazing support during this tournament!”

The MMA Queens event this year had 14 entries. By far, the most in the last few years. Rounding out the top five in qualifying were: Krysta LaRue, +22; Abbie Hugill, +24; Sun Jones, +59: and Anastasia Riley,+64.

“Anything can happen on the lanes and when things happen that are out of my control, I just have to move on and keep going. During the qualifying round, my scores were up and down and I was a little worried toward the end about where I stood against the field,” she said, of her performance. “I was mostly worried about spares, knowing those are ultimately the game changers. I focused hard on my stroke, knowing they would make or break my set!”

Her best performance prior to winning the Mesa Metro Queens event, came last year.

“I bowled the State Queens tournament in the Summer of 2022 and I finished 9th!,” she said, of her previous best performance. “Spending extra time on the lanes is very beneficial and important to me, so practicing is definitely something I capitalize on! I feel like my game is sharper after I’ve had some time to practice and focus on my personal game!”

Others who rounded out the field were: Mary Sturm, Joan Harnish, Karol Przybytek, Angela Wolfe, Stacey Silaghi-Constantino, Lora Summers-Franklin, Debbie Toon, Virginia Young, and Nicole Armstrong.

“I was so happy to see so many talented ladies show up and show out for this tournament! The field was hard and everyone showed up with their best game faces on,” she said, of the field. “With such a diverse and talented squad, I knew it wasn’t going to be easy. I feel so blessed to be able to compete in this field of talented women!”

Excelling at bowling at a young age:

Katie comes from a well-established bowling family in the West Valley, where everyone bowls. From her father David, to her sister Annie.

She and her sister got their start in bowling at Mission Bell, now Bowlero, and AMF Peoria! They loved waking up every Saturday morning for league and enjoyed bowling with other kids in their area! They have created lifelong, meaningful friendships from those leagues and it gave them that competitive spirit from a young age!

“There is always a good time to start bowling,” she says, of the game “Whether you’re young, or still young at heart!”

      She had a stellar junior bowling career, where she accomplished some of the achievements below:

      2018 Pepsi Tournament- State Finals- U20 Scratch Girls- 1st Place

  • 2018 Pepsi Tournament- Northern Section- U20 Scratch Girls- High Qualifier
  • 2017 Pepsi Tournament- Northern Section- U20 Scratch Girls- High Qualifier
  • 2016 Pepsi Tournament- Northern Section- U20 Scratch Girls- High Qualifier
  • 2016 Pepsi Tournament- 3rd Place
  • 2016 Metro Phoenix USBC- High Association Average- Youth Girls
  • 2016 High School Bowling- SMHS- High Average- Girls
  • High School Bowling- SMHS- 1st Place team (2014-2015)
  • 2018 Arizona State USBC Lily May Hester Star of Tomorrow
  • 2018 Metro Phoenix USBC Ruth Brummitt Scholarship (inaugural winner)
  • 2016 Metro Phoenix USBC Outstanding Youth Scholarship Winner
  • 2017 Metro Phoenix USBC Outstanding Youth Scholarship Winner
  • Multiple league high average, high game, and high series awards
  • High game: 289
  • High series: 737.

“I had the opportunity to bowl in one Junior Gold event, back in 2018!,” she said, of bowling Junior Gold. “Junior Gold is such a unique experience and I enjoyed being able to meet elite professional bowlers and see so many bowlers in one place! It was an awesome challenge and I learned so much! Junior Gold definitely served as a challenge and was a way for me to branch out before entering college. Junior Gold was another way that I was introduced to the harder conditions of bowling and I learned a lot about myself and my game. I still carry that knowledge and experience with me, even after college.”

In fact, it was another trip outside of Junior Gold, where she and her sister were recruited on bowl in college.

“My sister and I were recruited to bowl in college through the ITRC Combine in Arlington, Texas. All athletes that were accepted went through various tests related to bowling, both physical and mental. At the combine, I was able to meet with many coaches and found Coach Crews at the University of Alabama at Birmingham- UAB,” she said, of the Combine and being recruited by UAB. “Moving 1,732 miles away from home to bowl was not my original plan when I first began bowling at the age of 8, but I am so glad I made that decision. It was a huge transition, bowling for a new team with a new phase of life ahead of me. I am an adaptable person who is open to change and I was ready for this new challenge. Coach Crews welcomed me to her family with open arms and I had the best group of girls by my side for 4 years. I graduated with my Bachelors of Science in Psychology with a minor in Kinesiology.”

      Her College accomplishments included:

  • Tournament MVP at Lewis University Tournament 
  • MEAC All-Conference Third Team 
  • MEAC Bowler of the Week
  • MEAC All-Academic Honors
  • Dean’s List Academic Honors

Being an athlete in college has its ups and downs. But she could not get through the rough patches, without having a family member by her side. 

“Having my sister with me during the recruiting process and then joining her at UAB was absolutely surreal. We always talk about how lucky we feel to be so close and to even have been roommates at one point!,” she said, of her time at UAB. “We’ve stuck by each other since the beginning, so it was only natural that we stay together through this amazing journey! There were ups and downs in our journey, but we stuck to our roots and maintained our amazing and close relationship throughout our time in college. I still feel so blessed to have had my major life and bowling experiences with my sister by my side!”

While Phoenix and Birmingham are still about 1,732 miles away. It still takes two shots to knock down 10 pins. Sometimes one. But, the game of bowling still remains the same. 

“Phoenix and Birmingham are two different worlds, in the best way! I experienced such a different culture in the Southeast and learned so much about their unique lifestyles and how it differed to the one I knew in Phoenix,” she said, of her time at UAB. “I was lucky enough to travel around the country for tournaments during my time in college and got to see so many diverse areas! It sparked my love for adventure and reminded me how much I love visiting places I’ve never been to! I also valued the perspective I gained from those who grew up in the Southeast and shared my stories of Phoenix all the same!”

There was not one moment during her time at UAB, where she can say was her most memorable one. But she said, her senior year brought everything into perspective for her. 

“It’s hard to choose just one moment in the four years I attended UAB, but I’ll never forget the moments I felt during my Senior Year, Knowing I was leaving the program that gave me so much. Every shot at every tournament became more meaningful! I set out to achieve many goals for my senior year and one goal in particular was to make an All-Tournament Team or become an MVP at a tournament,” she said, of achieving that goal. “I achieved that goal and received an MVP award from the tournament hosted by Lewis University. Senior year for me also represented redemption, as my early years were halted by COVID-19. It felt good to have a great year on the lanes, achieve my goals, and have a fantastic team and coach by my side through the whole journey. Overall, my college experience was a huge blessing- I went to an amazing school, made lifelong friends, and furthered my love for my favorite sport!”

Arizona Bowling News – January 24, 2023