So your interest in the sport of bowling is now beyond the once-in-a-while, recreational past-time and you're ready to take your game to the next level.

Today is May 7, 2007. I have just completed my graduation checklist and it is being reviewed by my trainers and mentors for completeness.

Bowling is a social sport and it's "rules of etiquette" are something everyone should learn for their own enjoyment as well as for others.

Not surprisingly, a large majority of people already know that bowling is where you roll a ball down a lane, knock down some pins, and score points.

The term "recreational bowler" refers to a person who goes bowling once-in-a-while with family, friends, the company, or some other special occasion. This person's main interest lies not in the score of the game but in socializing and having a good time.

Bowling has arguably become the largest participation sport in the world. However, when people talk about sports, you're more likely to hear about football, baseball, basketball, hockey, or soccer.

Bowling is growing in popularity after a 20 year decline in participation and is poised for even greater growth because of the female bowler.

Kids bowling on Saturday and/or Sunday mornings in an organized and monitored junior bowling program are the future of our sport.