Well, 1997 has come and gone, and there has been good and bad in the bowling world. Here are a few of my observations from the good side of the approach.
Steve Hoskins' incredible year. He is such a talent, and it’s nice to see a nice guy have good things happen to him.
Amleto Monacelli proving to everyone that he is still a power on the tour.
I like Mike. The partnership between AMF and Michael Jordan can only be a plus. Jordan is the consummate professional. Adults respect him, and youth idolize him—nothing wrong with that combination.
Hall of Famer Nikki Gianulias captures the Lady Ebonite Classic—a classy lady winning a classic event. It doesn’t get any better.
Here are a few observations from the bad side of the approach:
The scandal with Brunswick World Team Challenge. Accusations of "sandbagging" by some current and former TEAM USA members are just another negative about our sport's integrity.
Judy Soutar snubbing her induction into the Women’s Professional Bowling Hall of Fame.
The end of an era, as ABC-TV drops the "Professional Bowlers Tour."
The ill feelings Jeremy Sonnenfeld has for Columbia 300 Inc. And, the poor promoting of this young man by the ABC.
Brackets! ‘Nuff said.
So let’s hope that 1998 will have more positives than negatives. Individually and collectively, we have to make our sport better. We need to expand leagues. We need growth in the classic leagues such as the Traveling Classic Bowling Association. We need to ensure bowling's integrity and prevent the slightest indication of wrongdoing, such as the current situation with the BWTC.
The System of Bowling Committee needs to do more than sit around and talk to people. That dog won’t hunt any more. It’s time to do something or just forget about it, but stop wasting our time and money.
In 1998, I need to win the ABC Nationals, roll an 800 series, a 300 game, roll 11 in a row, a 299 and a 298 game. Possible? Sure, but don’t hold your breath.
See you on the lanes.