Bowling as a competitive high school sport is becoming more and more popular in southwest Missouri. In late May of 2011, the Nixa Eagles won the state title over 24 teams across the state at Battlefield Lanes in Springfield. It was the third annual tournament held in Springfield, sponsored by the Missouri chapter of the United States Bowling Congress (USBC).
Although not technically sponsored by the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA), bowling would be easy to add for many high schools as a sport. Even small towns have bowling alleys as a recreational sport for residents. All kids need to do is have shoes and a ball and they’re set for the season. The equipment needs are fairly basic, on par with soccer. The teams simply need places to practice and play.
Renting a bowling alley may be somewhat cost prohibitive, but talking to local businesses may yield getting their time and space donated for a worthy cause. Bowling alleys are often open during slow times as well as busy days. Teams could practice during slower times at the local bowling spot.
The sport is easily played for both boys and girls. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a seasonal sport as bowling can be played year-round. When residents consider a rise in crime rates and budget cuts for school sports, bowling is an inexpensive sport to enhance a school’s extracurricular offerings.
Bowling is a safe activity with little chance of injury as compared to football, basketball and soccer. Teachers can easily coach bowling with just a little instruction and teaching materials. Local bowling associations can also help out with finding a coach if need be.
Springfield Public Schools and the surrounding areas have plenty of interest in bowling with several leagues for adults and youth throughout the year. Finding enough interest in Springfield would be no problem. The current format of the championship may be enough for many bowling teams, but adding full-fledged sports sponsored by MSHSAA would give credence to bowling as a viable sport.
There’s no reason why Springfield Public Schools can’t come up with some extra funding for their school activities in terms of adding bowling teams.
William Browning has lived in southwest Missouri for over 15 years after moving to the area from St. Louis. He currently resides in Branson .