Bowling Etiquette
1. Be on time for league play. Lateness not only affects your teammates, but also bowlers who are due to bowl after you.
2. Be prepared to take your regular turn on the lanes. If another bowler is on a lane to your immediate right or left do not advance to the foul line until the other bowler has completed the shot. However, do not wait for bowlers several lanes away on either side.
3. Take your time, but do not waste everybody elses by useless posing or waiting around until all around you have bowled. Bowlers are often irritated and distracted by those who stand too long, before advancing to the foul line.
4. Stay in your own approach area. Step back off the approach after making each delivery.
5. Do not use another player's bowling ball, towel, resin, etc., without permission.
6. The approaches may not be exactly to your liking, but do not use chalk, resin or powder to condition them. The next bowler may like them as they are. If you have a complaint, take it quietly to the manager.
7. Control your emotions on the lanes. Kicking the ball rack, swearing and throwing things, doesn't help anyone!
8. Be certain you wait until the pin setting machine has completed its cycle and the sweep bar is raised before rolling the ball.
9. Getting your ball out onto the lane is important, but lofting is bad for the lane, and it will not help your game either.
10. Do not carry refreshments onto the bowling area (the pit). Spilled liquid can create problems for all the bowlers.
11. Good bowling requires concentration. When an opponent is set to bowl, give the player the courtesy of making the shot without interference.
12. Play to win, but be gracious if you are on the short end of the score at the end of the game. ''Modest in victory, gracious in defeat'' - is a great motto.
13. Do not talk on your cell phone while in the bowling area/circle, on the approach or while rolling your ball.
