DETROIT – The parking lot of Thunder Bowl Lanes is especially packed for an early Saturday morning for a serious competition, however, most of the bowlers are not even of driving age.
Metro Detroit is known as the Capital of Bowling in the nation. However, it’s being introduced to a new generation of bowlers to keep the sport alive.
The Thunderbowl Classic is not amateur hour. Dozens of highly skilled students are members of the Michigan Junior Masters Association.
“At this level, the kids really want to challenge themselves and they really want to bowl against the best competition,” said Jerry Tarabek, executive director of Michigan Junior Masters Association.
Jacey Thibodeau began competing at the age of five.
Now 16 years old, she’s dominating the lane by upping her game over the years.
“I like that I can make friends throughout but also have the love of bowling,” Thibodeau said.
The sport attracts youth athletes for a few reasons.
The camaraderie is what draws most young people to bowling. Competition is another reason why they like to join. There are also college scholarships available by winning the tournament.
“I have two that has bowled MJMA [Michigan Junior Masters Association]. One is now in college getting a scholarship to bowl a lot because of MJMA,” said Tony DeLuccia, a parent.
The kids take the competition so seriously, that they’re committed to the longevity of the sport.
Dillon Barnes pulls double-duty as a competitor and board member of the Michigan Junior Masters Association. He’s good, but too modest.
“Probably go to the highest level of college to compete there,” Barnes said.
In some ways, this pastime has nearly stood still in time. No smart devices or headphones are allowed, and everyone’s uniform must be impeccable.
After all, it’s not just the fact the teens are trying to preserve the sport, but the culture too.
“It teaches you how to be mentally and physically strong. It just gives you that mentality of a champion,” Thibodeau said.