Chuck Gardner — who has built a multifaceted career as a professional bowler, PBA and PWBA ball company representative, bowling center proprietor and pro shop operator — has been named the 2026 recipient of the Billiard and Bowling Institute of America’s Industry Service Award.
Widely respected for his bowling expertise, Gardner was recognized numerous times as a “Top 100 Coach” by Bowlers Journal International when that magazine ran that annual ranking and holds USBC Silver coach certification.
His coaching reach extends beyond America’s borders, having conducted clinics in Europe and Canada.
Despite that solid resumé, it was Gardner’s dedication and mentorship that resulted in his selection for BBIA’s highest honor. In 2013, Gardner and his wife, Deborah, founded the Bowl4Life Foundation, an organization committed to advancing youth bowling through high-quality instruction and scholarship support. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded nearly $1 million in scholarships to young bowlers nationwide.
BBIA President Mark Buffa relayed the news to Gardner, who credited Deborah as the “workhorse of the foundation.”
Added Gardner: “You don’t do it for the recognition, but when it comes in, you sure do appreciate it and know that you’re doing the right thing.”
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