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Bowling Etiquette In League Play - Does And Don'ts

Written By: Rich Carubba and Keith Spear | Written On: Thursday, July 16, 2009 | Updated On: Friday, February 7, 2025

If you are asking how do I learn or share bowling etiquette for my bowling league, there are a few courtesies you can observe to help you fit into the pace of the league play. If you are getting ready for your first league or find that you are getting confused about what to do in your existing league, here are guidelines to follow which are easy and make good common sense:

1. When you get up to the ball return, have your bowling ball in hand while remaining behind the approach.

2. Do not step onto your approach until the other bowlers on adjacent lanes have stepped off their approaches and clear the way for you to bowl.

3. Change into bowling shoes before stepping onto the approach.

4. Be ready to bowl when it is your turn and avoid wandering around where teammates have to find you and remind you it is your turn to bowl.

5. Return off of the approach and back into the settee area once your ball impacts the pins. Allow other bowlers on adjacent lanes to ready themselves to bowl.

6. Avoid wasting time aiming - take aim, begin your walk to the line, and deliver the ball.

Additional Bowling Etiquette Tips

If you follow these lane courtesies, everyone will enjoy the pace of bowling in your league. Here are additional etiquette tips to help you feel more comfortable and confident:

7. Avoid loud talking, laughter, or distractions while others are on the approach, allowing everyone to focus on their game.

8. Wait until your ball is returned before picking it up from the ball return. Avoid grabbing the ball prematurely, which can disrupt other players.

9. Refrain from using another bowler’s ball without permission; it’s a personal item that’s often customized for their hand size and grip.

10. Limit use of your phone while it’s your turn to bowl to keep the game flowing smoothly.

11. Keep food and drinks out of the bowling area to prevent spills on the approach or lane, which can create hazards.

12. Avoid standing too close to the approach while waiting; give other bowlers space and avoid crowding.

13. Respect other players’ space by sitting or standing clear of the approach area when not actively participating in the game.

14. Offer polite congratulations or encouragement after strikes or spares but avoid excessive celebrations that can delay the game.

15. Avoid crossing the foul line. Not only does it impact your score, but oil from the lane can also make your shoes slippery and dangerous.

16. Use a towel to dry your hands and ball away from the approach so you don’t disrupt other bowlers.

17. If you accidentally drop your ball or make a mistake, don’t take extended time re-adjusting. Laugh it off and keep the game moving.

18. After each frame, sit or stand away from the approach to allow the next bowler easy access.

19. Maintain good sportsmanship by congratulating other players on their good shots and sparing judgments or criticisms.

20. Avoid walking down the lanes or stepping onto the oil, as this can make the floor dangerously slippery.

21. Keep all personal belongings neatly tucked away in designated areas to avoid cluttering the settee area.

22. Offer to help new players understand scoring or rules if they seem unsure, but avoid unsolicited advice to experienced players.

23. Avoid lingering at the foul line after a shot; it’s best to quickly step back to let others prepare for their turn.

24. Return borrowed equipment, such as house balls, to the rack at the end of the game to keep the area organized for others.

25. Keep an eye on the score to stay aware of your turn without needing reminders from your teammates.

26. If a dispute arises over scoring or lane conditions, address it politely with the control desk, not with fellow players.

27. Use hand signals or non-verbal cues to show courtesy, like gesturing for the next player if you’re still getting set.

28. Stay composed even if you’re having a bad game; maintain positive sportsmanship regardless of personal performance.

29. Do not roll practice balls or experiment with throws between frames as this can delay the pace of play.

30. Remember that everyone is there to enjoy the game; be patient and understanding of different skill levels in the league.

Conclusion

Learning and following bowling etiquette is essential for making league play enjoyable for everyone. Respecting lane courtesies and understanding basic guidelines not only help you feel comfortable but also contribute to a positive and fair atmosphere. Keeping the pace of play, showing respect to others, and maintaining good sportsmanship make a huge difference in creating a welcoming environment. Whether you’re a new league bowler or a seasoned player, these etiquette tips ensure that all players have an enjoyable experience.

Remember that leagues can differ slightly in rules and customs, especially in different parts of the world, so if you have specific questions, reach out to league officers or the control desk staff at your bowling center. Observing proper etiquette reflects well on you as a player, builds camaraderie with fellow bowlers, and enhances everyone’s experience. As you grow in the sport, these practices will become second nature, making you a respected and valued league member.

Another great idea might be to print out this article and lay them on the tables before league. The friendliest way to make sure everyone or someone gets the point with confrontation.

If you have additional questions about bowling etiquette, feel free to comment below or email us your question at [email protected].

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