Focus and fun!

[Tampabaybob]

A few weeks ago I was bowling some practice games with friends. 2 pairs of lanes down were a group of youn guys, in thier twentys, using house balls and having fun. Of course, when young get those guys around, you get the inevitable throwing the ball too soon, and slamming into the gate while it is still down. Well one of these clowns not only hit the gate, but the ball deflected up, and smashed into the light. So what did the center do, kick them out? Nope, moved them down a pair, so they were right next to us. My friends complained. They did not want to bowl with these guys next to them, we knew they would have no courtesy, and are doing stupid stuff. I told my friends to use it. Use it to train yourself to block out distractions. If you can bowl next to those idiots, and block them out it can definatly help your game.

You're right, this could've been a learning experience, but if your friends are serious bowlers and are there to get some "good" practice in, then I can also understand them complaining. Sometimes there are centers that hire desk people that are "not bowlers" so they don't understand the concept of where should I put these guys and where not to put them. I have had similar experiences at our lanes, when theres maybe only 6 lanes running, I'm trying to coach someone and they put some recreational bowlers (i.e.; young kids) next to me). And it's like "Hey dumbass, what were you thinking?"

So I know the dilema. It can work both ways.

[scottymoney]

I have been fortunate with what lanes I get. I don't know if I look like a serious bowler, but I think coming in to bowl alone they give me plenty of cushion between me and the "just there for fun" bowlers. Not that I am not there to have fun but I think they see me as a guy there to practice and work on things.

I think it is also common courtesy from the front desk to fill the lanes with giving everyone room until they have to start putting people next to each other. I have seen they also like to put me in front of the bar, but normally I am there just to practice and most of the time do not get drinks.

[GeoLes]

I think Earl Woods taught his son, Tiger to focus by deliberately creating distrations at key moments. It can't hurt in bowling. Although teenagers's outrageous behavior can be a little over the top. Destructover or unsafe behaviour should be reported to the front desk, but when it comes to kids, there should be much more leeway. I often bowl next to kids who have very apologetic parents. I smile and say "no problem. Kids just want to bowl and have fun. Go ahead".

Now unsuprvised minors with fingers in ball return, or running accross the lanes is another matter...

Reminds me of Sinbad joke about the bad kid in the suupermarket acting up.

Mom runs behind little Johnny threating time out, while Johnny reaks havoc in the aisles ignoring Mom. As he runs past Sinbad, he sticks out a foot, tripping the little rascal.
The kid tumbles over.

"Time out!!"

[billf]

When I go to practice they ask me what lane I want.
If I'm already there, they will put the good looking females next to me. They also know that I don't mind kids or birthday parties. I use it as a chance to recruit bowlers and clients. When coaching, give me plenty of room!