Hi everyone, I'm new to the forum and like it already. I kind of have a gripe and wonder what everyone else thinks. I bowl 2 nights a week in separate leagues and like most people don't want that to be my practice time. The problem is, when I asked when there is open practice time, i was told I could bowl between 10 am and 3 pm during the week. That would be great except, like most american bowlers, I have a job that requires me to be there 7am-3:30 pm. I would bowl on Sat. and Sun. for practice, but it is cosmic bowling at almost all times. I understand the fact that a 10 lane house with 5 adult leagues and 5 junior leagues is gonna be cramped, but this is ridiculous. I really want/need the practice time. How much time is available to you all for practice/open bowling. Thanks for any info and for letting me complain a little

Adam, are those the only lanes where you live? 'Cause if you just want to practice, any bowling center should do. I understand you might want to practice at the same center you bowl your league, but it might be better to pracitce on different lanes and since the lanes might be different(running, tight). I don't have any problem finding lanes to practice on, since most of the houses have at least 24 lanes. I know it's not the same, but practice at home. Practice you delivery in front of a mirror making sure that your square and solid at delivery. Use visualization, and picture yourself making good shots. These practice techniques will not replace actual practicing on the lanes, but they so work. You want to get a good mental picture of your delivery and shot. Having a good mental game goes a long way.

Yeah, I do some of that at home like hand position and staying square. I would have to drive 35-40 minutes to the next center and really don't have that much time (excuses excuses right) I just think they should at the very least turn the lights on for a while on weekends

The bowling center has to look at it from a profitability standpoint. In order for them to be there for the league bowlers, first they have to be there at all. Whatever it takes to keep the doors open, and the business going, is what they have to do.

It's unfortunate for those of us who like to take our game seriously, but it is a fact we have to live with. Centers here offer discounted rates to league bowlers for practice, but it is also on a time limit that conflicts with working hours.

A 35-40 minute drive is nothing. Some poeple don't have that luxury, and drive as much as 2 hours or more to bowl. If you have the option of several houses around the area, give them a call to see what their open bowling schedules are, you may find someplace that fits into your schedule better.

Good point coach. I guess I feel deprived of bowling centers, but in the big scheme of things I'm not. I did find out at league last night that if I go right after work on Tue. or Thurs I can bowl till about 6 so that was nice to hear.

That's great Adam, a little time to get in a couple games is better than none.