High School Bowling: On a Roll

Make way for the new varsity athlete on high school campuses: the bowling alley big shot.

Bowling became the fastest-growing sport last year, according to the National Federation of State High School Associations. Although football and basketball still rule, pulling in 1.4 million players, nearly 40,000 students bowled last year. Sixteen states had varsity squads, up from four in 1999.

Industry observers say bowling is experiencing an uptick in popularity, as movie and sports stars such as Will Smith and Kobe Bryant have been spotted pummeling the pins at glam bowling centers. Educators sing the sport’s praises because it builds confidence, requires discipline, and can reach a broad range of students. And, as with other varsity sports, schools demand that student-athletes keep their grades up.

Think your students might like to try their hands at a 7-10 split? The Bowling Proprietors Association of America offers teachers free equipment and curriculum guidance. Find out more at www.bowlersed.com.