BOWLING ETIQUETTE
Etiquette in bowling is nothing more than an extension of one’s general consideration for the rights of others. “Treat other people as you would want them to treat you” is a golden rule of etiquette. Whatever your preference, it deals with the same message-showing consideration and respect for others.
Surprisingly, what I consider to be one of the most important rules of etiquette is, “Don’t get on the approach unless you are ready to bowl”. As most bowlers know, one should never move down the approach with a bowler on the adjoining lane. When two bowlers are ”up” to bowl at the same time, the bowler on the right is given the priority.
However, what many bowlers do not realize is that while waiting for the person on the right to bowl, they should stay off the lane. Only in this way, you can effectively indicate to the bowler on your right that you are waiting for him or her to bowl. At the same time, the bowler on your left will be indicated that you are waiting for the bowler on your right to bowl.
By staying off the approach until you are ready to bowl, you eliminate this confusion. The bowler on the left can now quickly determine the situation and act accordingly. Every bowler should practice this rule. This is not only good bowling etiquette, but a rule which, when practiced, improves a bowler’s concentration and dramatically speeds up play.
One lane to your left and one lane on your right is the rule you need to take care of. In other words, if you bowl on lane 5, your only concern is not “going down the lane” along with a bowler on lane 4 or 6.
Another very important etiquette practice is exercising non-conversation with one who is in the process of bowling. Give your opponent every opportunity to concentrate while on the approach. Sportsmanship is very important to our bowling game.
Many additional rules concerning etiquette should be observed when bowling. You can check out the “World Tenpin Bowling Association (WTBA)” or “Professional Bowlers Association (PBA)” for the latest version of all statutes bowling rules. Some simple rules are such as below :
- Limit body demonstrations (particularly at the foul line)
- Don’t bring food or drinks on the approach
- Be ready to bowl without having to be called
- Don’t practice swings while waiting to bowl (someone behind you could get hurt)
- Don’t slam the bowling ball on the ball return machine or floor/lane
- Don’t criticize an opponent’s performance
- Don’t use profanity language
- Don’t stand on the approach waiting for your spare ball
