Bowling at West Texas A&M University is not just about competition; it is a fun and engaging recreational sport that brings students together. Whether you are a very competitive bowler or just looking to compete and have fun with friends, the WT Bowling Club offers a welcoming environment for everyone.
According to the WT Rec Sports website, the Bowling Club, founded in 1976, has won seven national championships, ranking second among all bowling teams in the country. Through dedication and teamwork, the teams continue to uphold this proud tradition.
Students of all skill levels are encouraged to come and try. It’s a great way to socialize, relieve stress and stay active. The club meets three times a week at the bowling lanes of the Virgil Henson Activities Center, where members practice for two hours, enjoy friendly games, share tips and build lasting friendships.
“I would say that our core values include self-discipline, trust, accountability as well as feedback,” Katherine Walters, the bowling teams president, said. “You have to trust your teammates. Bowling is very much an individual sport that was made a team sport, so they combine the scores to make the team total.”
Recently, the WT bowling club traveled to San Antonio for the last tournament of the season, giving members a chance to experience competitive play in a fun and supportive setting. The trip provided an opportunity for students to bond, explore a new city, and celebrate the end of the season together.
“We went to San Antonio this year and had good time; my favorite memories from bowling are traveling to tournaments,” Jackson Dedek, a sports and exercise science junior and bowler at WT, said. Opinion shared by the team president, “Last year we went to Vegas for a four day tournament which was a lot of fun, and a lot of bowling,” Walters said.
While there are no tournaments until next fall, the club is actively recruiting new members to help grow the program.
“Before COVID-19, the team had around 50 members, including about 22 women and 23 men, but participation has significantly declined since then.” Walters said.
The team is looking for students who are interested in trying out bowling and sticking with it. To attract new members, the club holds recruiting events once a month. The other opportunities to join are on March 20 and April 10 from 6 to 9 p.m at the VHAC. These events allow students to experience the sport firsthand, meet the team, and learn more about what the club has to offer. Being part of a group like the WT Bowling Club helps students build friendships, develop teamwork, and feel more connected to campus life. Beyond competition, it provides a supportive community where members can learn from each other and share memorable experiences.
For students looking to try something new, the WT bowling team is an excellent option. Whether you are aiming for a strike or just hoping to avoid the gutter, you will find a supportive and fun-loving group ready to share the experience and help you improve.
In addition to club activities, the VHAC bowling lanes are open to all WT students for recreational play. Whether practicing individually or enjoying a game with friends, students have the opportunity to bowl at their convenience at affordable rates.
For more information about joining the WTAMU bowling club, visit the REC sports website or the bowling teams instagram page at @wtamu_bowling.
