Getting paid to bowl sounds like fun, doesn’t it? It’s not a career for everyone, but if you’ve got a lot of talent and commitment, as well as familiarity with bowling rules and etiquette in Hampton, VA, you might be able to make a living as a professional bowler. If you’re ready to take a step up from your league games and play with the pros, read on! Here’s how the pros make money:
- Tournaments: Tournaments are the main way professional bowlers make their money, and the PBA tournament is the most prestigious of all. The bigger the pool, the bigger the prize—but that can also include a much larger entry fee and stiffer competition.
- Sponsorships: Once a professional bowler has made a reputation for herself, she can start considering sponsorships. Like other sports, from Little League to NASCAR, companies will pay pros to wear their logos at competitions. In return, you also get additional publicity and networking opportunities.
- Other appearances: By taking advantage of teaching or coaching opportunities, professionals can use their experience and notoriety to bring in additional money with odd jobs and appearances.
How do I join the PBA?
The PBA is America’s premier professional bowling organization. According to their website at the time this article was published, there are three ways a bowler can join the PBA:
- Cash in a PBA regional tournament as a non-member.
- Have a 200 average or better for the most recent league season with at least 36 games bowled.
- Have a 190 average or better in a PBA experience league or sanctioned USBC sport bowling league, with at least 36 games bowled.
You don’t have to be a PBA member in order to join a tournament, but your options will be far more limited if you do not.
How good do I have to be?
Generally, you should have a regular average of 200 or better. Each tournament has different rules, which can include a minimum score average over a minimum number of games. You’ll research each competition individually, but reaching a 200 average is a good goal to strive for as you practice.
You should also consider the fact that while you may frequently bowl a 200 in regular games, professional games often include a variety of oil patterns and other unusual conditions, making it more challenging to maintain a 200 average over the long term. We advise starting with small tournaments and making your way up—in other words, don’t quit your day job just yet.
If you’re interested in learning more about professional bowling or bowling rules and etiquette in Hampton, VA, join the party at Sparetimes. Our bowling center has been a locally owned and operated hotspot in the community since 1960, and we are still going strong. We cater to bowlers of all ages and experience levels, and are dedicated to delivering the best recreation experience possible. We also sell high-quality bowling gear in Hampton, VA. Stop by today to see everything we have to offer for yourself!
Categorised in: Bowling