Since it’s origin, bowling has always been a family activity. However, a new national tournament being developed will take that to another level. The International Youth Bowling Development and Bowling Proprietors’ Association of America have collaborated on an effort that will allow families to now compete together on the lanes, the All American Family Tournament.
The purpose of the All American Family Tournament is to showcase the recreational side of bowling. It is designed to engage families who love the sport of bowling and offer an opportunity to compete together.
“There are not many sports in which family members can participate together on the same playing field,” said Chad Murphy, USBC Executive Director and Managing Director for IBC Youth Development. “Families will be able to compete together and we’ll have several age-based divisions to provide a competitive and fun experience for everyone.”
Participating bowling centers will have an opportunity to host qualifying events and the winners of those events will advance to the national championships. The national championships will be held on July 7-9, 2015.
“Engaging youth bowlers continues to be an important priority and offering opportunities for parents and children together is a key piece of the strategy,” said BPAA President Cathy DeSocio. “The All American Family Tournament is a tremendous way for bowling centers to get families together on the lanes for a special experience.”
The format of the tournament is as follows:
– In each division, one adult will be paired with one youth
– The four divisions will be based on the age of the youth bowler – Under 8, Under 12, Under 15, Under 17 and the adult must be at least 24 years old
– The event is handicap-based. Allowing centers to promote it to a broader demographic of bowlers
– The qualifying rounds will be held on a local level with league and tournament qualifiers with the winners will advancing to the national finals
– Centers will be allowed to start host qualifying rounds between August 1, 2014 and May 31, 2015
– Any state/provincial qualifying must be complete by May 31, 2015
For more information on the All American Family Bowling Tournament, vist: BOWL.com/AAFT
Bowling Center Management Online 