My interest in bowling began in southern Idaho tagging along with my Dad on his league night.  They wouldn’t let me bowl, “It’s a men’s league they would say,” so I settled for learning how to keep score. They would each give me a dollar which I thought was a much better way to earn money than babysitting!  I thought it was so cool that my Dad had all of these wonderful friends who got together once a week for a little competition and fun.

   I began organized bowling in Salt Lake City on the South High School girl’s bowling team.  When I married and moved to Ogden, I didn’t know anyone here so I joined a league at Rainbow Lanes.  I met a lot of wonderful people there including the late, great Joe Covieo who had a major influence on my game.  It was there that I first learned that people who willingly share their knowledge of the game and encourage others have a major impact on keeping people involved in the sport. 

   Highlights of my bowling career include being named to the OWBA ladies All-Star team three times, winning the singles scratch event twice and the team event in the OWBA City tournament.  I’ve also been on first place teams in the OBA, City Mixed, and Golden Spike tournaments.  My personal bests include games of 300 and 299, carrying a 202 league average, and several 700 series with a high of 753.

   I have served as a director and/or vice-president for eleven years on the local boards of the OWBA, NUYABA and NUUSBCA and it has been both an honor and a great learning experience.   Coaching youth bowlers at Fitzgerald’s (Sparetime) for eight years has been by far the most rewarding experience of my bowling career.  There are no words to express how much it means when a youth bowler tells you that you have been a positive influence on their life and I will always be grateful to my dear friend Kathy Farris for encouraging me to get involved in youth bowling.

   I have been inspired for many years by the personal achievements, outstanding service and dedication of the wonderful group of women in the Hall of Fame and it is a great honor to be included. 

Sincerely,

Becky Deal