2009-2010 Playing Rules

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Contents 1

Table o ContentsUSBC Board o Directors 4USBC Executive Team 5USBC Contacts 6Legislative Update 7

Chapter 1: USBC Introduction 8Rule 400 Youth Membership Eligibility 11

Chapter 2: General Playing Rules 14Rule 1 USBC Certication 14Rule 2 The Game 14Rule 3 Modied Format 15Rule 4 Delivering the Ball 15Rule 5 Fouls 17Rule 6 Pinall 18Rule 7 Pins 19Rule 8 Dead Ball 20Rule 9 Bowling on Wrong Lane 21Rule 10 Provisional Ball 21

Rule 11 Foreit - Delay o Game 22Rule 12 Approaches Must Not Be Deaced 22Rule 13 Parental Consent 22Rule 14 Supplemental Fees 24Rule 15 Gambling 24Rule 16 Suspended Bowler Ineligible 24Rule 17 Grounds or Disciplinary Action 25Rule 18 Bowling Ball - Altering Surace 27

Chapter 3: Awards 29Rule 50 Eligibility 29Rule 51a Single Game Awards 29Rule 51b Series Awards 30Rule 51c National Team High Game and Series 31Rule 51d Baker 300 Game Award 31Rule 51e Reporting Procedures 32

Rule 52a Merit Awards 32Rule 52b National High Average 32Rule 52c National High Series 33Rule 53 Adult Average Based Awards - Qualiying Rules 33Rule 54a Most Improved Bowler Award 34Rule 54b Youth League High Series 34

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2 Contents

Chapter 4: League Rules 35Rule 100 Leagues 35Rule 101 Membership Fee Payment Requirements 40Rule 102 League Ocers 41Rule 103 Board o Directors 45Rule 104 Teams 46Rule 105 Absentee and Vacancy Scores 48Rule 106 League Game/Series 50Rule 107 Team Composition 51Rule 108 Failure to Complete Game 53Rule 109 Lineup 55Rule 110 Foreits 56Rule 111 Prebowl/Postponements 58

Rule 112 Tie Game 61Rule 113 Playos/Special Contests 62Rule 114 Withdrawals/Resignations 63Rule 115 Disciplinary Procedures 64Rule 116 Scores 66Rule 117 Prizes 67Rule 118 Averages 68Rule 119 Protest/Appeal Procedures 71

Rule 120 Position Matches 72Rule 121 League Fees 73Rule 122 Meetings 73

Chapter 5: Sport Bowling 74Rule 200 Denition 74Rule 201 Membership 74Rule 202 Average Adjustment 75

Rule 203 Lane Dressing/Lane Dressing Inspections 77Rule 204 Awards 77Rule 205 Equipment Restrictions 78Rule 206 Sport Certied Centers 78Rule 207 Submission o Scores/Prize Winnings 78

Chapter 6: Tournament Rules 79Rule 300 Tournament 79

Rule 301 Types o Tournaments 80Rule 302 Mail-o-Graphic Tournament 81Rule 303 Management 82Rule 304 Authority o Team Captain 82Rule 305 Fees 82Rule 306 All-Events 83

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Contents 3

Rule 307 Special Features 83Rule 308 Distribution o Prize Funds 84Rule 309 Prize Payment and Report 84Rule 310 Entries Close 85Rule 311 Submitting Entries 85

Rule 312 Conditions Cannot Change 85Rule 313 Free or Reduced Entries 85Rule 314 No Fees Returned 86Rule 315 Multiple Participation 86Rule 316 Singles Event Squad 86Rule 317 Handicap - Youth Competition 86Rule 318 Averages - Youth Competition 86Rule 319 Averages 87

Rule 320 Tournament Game/Series 90Rule 321 Interrupted Game/Series 90Rule 322 Players 90Rule 323 Pacers 91Rule 324 Lineup Changes 91Rule 325 Team Bowling Alone 92Rule 326 Tie or Championship 92Rule 327 Scoring Process 93

Rule 328 Changing Delivery 93Rule 329 Protests and Appeals 93

Chapter 7: Equipment Specications and Certication 95Commonly Asked Questions 95

Chapter 8: Bonding, Burglary and Holdup Insurance 97

Chapter 9: Handicap Inormation 101

Index 103

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4 USBC Board o Directors

2009-2010United States Bowling Congress

Board o Directors

Tamoria Adams, Charlotte, North Carolina

Lynda Barnes, Double Oak, TexasTom Bluth, Davie, Florida (Director-At-Large)

Andrew Cain, Phoenix, Arizona

Barbara Chrisman, Pleasant View, Utah

Perry Daniels, Carrollton, Texas

Carolyn Dorin-Ballard, Keller, Texas

Libbi Fletcher, Warren, Michigan

Tommy Gann, Sand Springs, Oklahoma

Nicholas Hoagland, Indianapolis, Indiana

Suzanne Huebel, Oscoda, Michigan

Michael Italia, Warrington, Pennsylvania

Bob Klatt, Prior Lake, Minnesota

Sam Lantto, Eden Prairie, MinnesotaWendy Macpherson, Henderson, Nevada

Tony Manna Jr, Omaha, Nebraska

Mitch Mitchell, Buord, Georgia

Stephen Moehrle, St Louis, Missouri

Jay Nephew, Dallas, Texas

James Peters, Bolingbrook, Illinois

Valerie Pittser, Huntersville, North Carolina

Jim Sturm, Dunbar, West Virginia

Marci Williams, Wichita, Kansas

*Directors terms are available on bowlcom

Ofcers

Directors*

Jeff Boj, President

Tampa, FloridaDarlene Baker, Vice President

Mahomet, Illinois

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USBC Executive Team 5

USBC Executive Team

Kevin Dornberger

Chie Operating OcerKevinDornberger@bowlcom

Susan MerrillChie Financial Ocer and Vice

President DevelopmentSusanMerrill@bowlcom

Jim OberholtzerVice President Technology

JimOberholtzer@bowlcom

Pete TredwellVice President Media

PeteTredwell@bowlcom

Neil StremmelVice President

National Governing BodyNeilStremmel@bowlcom

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6 USBC Contact List

United States Bowling Congress621 Six Flags Drive, Arlington, TX 76011

(800) 514-BOWL

bowl.comFor Questions About: E-mail address Ext. Fax # (817)

Bonding bonding@bowlcom 3156 385-8260

Bowling history, statistics or records pr@bowlcom 8959 385-8262

Bylaws, tax inormation associationservices@bowlcom 3158 (414) 421-8560

Coaching USBCcoaching@bowlcom 8969 385-8261

Collegiate USBCcollegiate@bowlcom 8425 385-8260

Communications pr@bowlcom 8959 385-8262

Equipment specications and

Lane certication specs@bowlcom 8386 385-8261

General inormation, supplies,

Merchandise, lost/replacement cards bowlino@bowlcom 3161 (414) 421-8560

High school bowling USBChighschool@bowlcom 8422 385-8260

Junior Gold Program USBCjuniorgold@bowlcom 3171 385-8260

Marketing marketing@bowlcom 8960 385-8262

Membership/Awards ma@bowlcom 3151 (414) 421-8560

National tournaments

USBC Open Championships USBCopenchampionships@bowlcom 8200 385-8269

USBC Womens Championships USBCwomenschampionships@bowlcom 8200 385-8268

USBC Junior Gold Championships USBCjuniorgold@bowlcom 3171 385-8260

USBC Team USA Championships USBCteamusa@bowlcom 8978 385-8261

USBC Youth Open Championships USBCyouthopen@bowlcom 8350 385-8260

Pepsi/USBC Youth Championships USBCyouthchampionships@bowlcom 3171 385-8260

Rules o the game and disputes rules@bowlcom 3155 385-8260

Scholarships/SMART Program smart@bowlcom 8290 385-8266

Sport Bowling sportbowling@bowlcom 3177 385-8262

Tournament certication rules@bowlcom 3155 385-8260Travel and housing USBCtravel@bowlcom (800) 269-5885 385-8263

Youth USBCyouth@bowlcom 8971 385-8260

WinLABS labshelp@bowlcom 3431 (414) 421-8560

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Legislative Update 7

Legislative Update

The ollowing is a synopsis o the changes since the last printing o this book The synopsis lists the rule andaect o the change All changes are eective August 1, 2009

Introduction

USBC Youth membership is available to individuals who have not reached their 20th birthday on or beoreAugust 1st o the current bowling season

Required Fees: Standard Youth membership dues increased to $17

Junior Gold: Girls average changed to 150

General Playing Rules

Rule 3 Rule 100j and 302a become Rule 3 - Modied Format, which also allows bumper bowling to becertied by USBC Baker System, which is a modied ormat, was deleted

Awards

Rule 51a New youth award program recognizing game accomplishments in 25-pin increments

Rule 51b New youth award program recognizing series accomplishments in 50-pin increments

Rule 53 Average requirements or average-based awards are changed

Rule 54b League High Series is only available or youth

League RulesRule 105 Gives leagues fexibility or vacancy scores just as they are or absentee scores

Rule 107c Gives leagues more fexibility to determine eligibility or league awards

Rule 109aAllows leagues the fexibility to determine the minimum legal lineup

Rule 113a Allows leagues to declare co-champions i it adopts a rule

Rule 113b Allows leagues the opportunity to decide what type o tie-breaker best suits its needs but mustconsist o at least one rame

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Chapter 1: Introduction

USBC MissionThe United States Bowling Congress, as the national governing body, ensures the integrity and protects the

uture o the sport, provides programs and services and enhances the bowling experience

MembershipHow ObtainedMembership in USBC is composed o adults and youth who have paid the appropriate USBC, and i appli-cable, state and local association dues Membership in USBC may be obtained through a league, tournament,chartered association, Alliance-at-Large and via bowlcom Upon completing a membership application card

and paying the appropriate dues, an individual becomes a member o USBC plus one USBC local and oneUSBC state association

A new member who joins a summer league ater March 15 o the current season shall, at the time the indi-vidual les his/her application or membership, pay only those annual USBC, state and local dues that arethen known to be, or to become, eective or the next season Upon payment o such dues, the individualshall be granted membership in USBC and applicable state and local associations or the balance o thecurrent season and the next season

A bowler must pay dues in each local association in which he/she applies or membership and/or bowls,except as provided in Rule 100e, Traveling leagues, 100l, Mail-o-graphic leagues or i the associationshave a reciprocal agreement to waive dues When a bowler joins a local association, he/she shall join theapplicable state association Regardless o the number o state and local associations in which an individualholds membership, he/she shall pay current USBC national membership dues only one timeUpon obtaining membership in USBC each member agrees to be bound by all nal decisions o USBC con-

cerning application or interpretation o USBC Bylaws, playing rules and other matters relating to the sport obowling as governed by USBC

Required FeesEach individual applying or USBC membership shall pay annual dues not to exceed:

Adult Membership Dues Youth Membership DuesUSBC $1000 USBC $1450Maximum State $ 100 State $ 50Maximum Local $1000 Local Processing $ 200Total Maximum $2100 Total $1700

State and local dues (adult only) amounts will not exceed the maximums established by USBC delegatesYouth dues may be dierent rom adult dues

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Chapter 1: USBC Introduction 9

Members o multiple local associations pay the appropriate state, i required, and local dues or processingees (youth), unless the associations have a reciprocal agreement to waive or reduce duesI a youth purchases youth and adult membership, national dues are only paid once

Eective DatesOn receipt o a membership application and the appropriate dues, a membership card will be valid:1 For the season starting August 1 through July 312 Through October 1 o the ollowing season or summer leagues and tournaments (adult only)

Youth who turn 20 during the season are not granted the October 1 extension or tournament play;youth membership expires July 31 o the season in which they turn 20 years old I a youthmember bowling in a summer league turns 20 during the season and the league continues beyondJuly 31, the bowler may complete the league as a youth bowler For individuals authorized as

mentally challenged, the age requirement is waived3 Through the balance o the current season and the ollowing season when purchased ater March 15

either through a summer league or associate membershipFor membership to be eective as o the date purchased in a league, the league secretary must orward theleague membership dues, application cards and league application to the local association within 30 daysOtherwise, membership benets are not eective until the date received at the local association oce

Possession o a valid membership card entitles the bowler to participate in all USBC competition or whichthey are otherwise qualied

Changes in DuesThe maximum dues structure or adults may only be changed by the USBC delegation The dues structure oryouths may only be changed by the USBC Board based on recommendations rom the Youth Committee

Types o Membership

In addition to USBC adult and youth standard membership, USBC oers the ollowing optional benets

Sport BowlingAll bowlers participating in USBC Sport Bowling leagues must pay or provide proo o payment o theSport Bowling membership dues ($15 or adults; $10 or youth) in addition to all required standard USBCmembership dues Unless required by tournament rule, participants in Sport Bowling tournaments are notrequired to be Sport Bowling members

Substitutes in USBC Sport Bowling leagues are permitted to participate in one league session per season

without the requirement to purchase Sport Bowling membership i he/she already has purchased USBCstandard membership or the current season Only USBC Sport Bowling members are eligible or USBC SportBowling awards

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Basic USBC membership dues or USBC Lietime members will be paid by USBC, but the bowler is responsibleor paying the additional Sport Bowling dues

Junior GoldMembership consists o elite youth bowlers who must:

a Be a USBC member in good standing and maintain compliance with Rule 400b Carry a minimum average o 21 games based on the previous or current season as ollows:

1) Boys: 175 average2) Girls: 150 average

c Purchase an additional Junior Gold membership o $30 separate rom regular USBC membership1) Junior Gold members will receive a youth Sport membership2) Junior Gold membership is valid:

a For the season starting August 1 through July 31

b Through October 1 o the ollowing season or summer leagues

AssociateAssociate membership is available to individuals who do not obtain membership through a USBC league

subject to the ollowing:a The associate membership dues shall be:

1 Adult National dues ($10) plus the actual dues charged by the local and state associationthe bowler is joining When local and state dues are not known, adult associate dues will be

$21 ($10 national, $10 local, $1 state)2 Youth $17

b When associate membership is obtained ater March 15, the individual shall become a member orthe balance o the current season and the next season

c The dues automatically will be adjusted whenever changes are made to the national, state andlocal dues

Collegiate

USBC Collegiate membership is available to student-athletes participating on an intercollegiate team Eachintercollegiate team must complete an application or membership and submit the required dues or eachstudent athlete Each student-athlete must complete a USBC membership application

By purchasing a membership through USBC Collegiate, collegiate members receive USBC National Member-ship and a Sport Membership upgrade only USBC Collegiate membership entitles student-athletes toparticipate in certied USBC Collegiate competition To participate in USBC standard or Sport competition,the applicable state/local membership dues must be paid

High SchoolMembership through the USBC High School Program is available at no charge to any high school teamregistering their individual bowlers or the program

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Chapter 1: USBC Introduction 11

The membership is valid solely or recognized high school competitions during each individual teams ocialhigh school bowling season In order to participate in other USBC Youth competitions, (non-USBC HighSchool) the individual must obtain USBC membership by paying all required standard USBCmembership dues

Averages rom the USBC High School Program will not be recognized or entry purposes into any other USBCleagues and/or tournaments

Youth Basic MembershipThe USBC Youth Basic Membership is available to short-season youth leagues o 12 sessions or less The$500 Youth Basic Membership includes $400 or national ees and a $100 processing ee or the associa-tion or bowling center and must be paid or each Basic League that a bowler participates in Youth BasicMembers receive a membership card, one issue o US Youth Bowler, USBC recognized average, ability to

compete in certied tournaments throughout the season (through July 31st), and league award emblems(League Champion, High Average, High Game, High Series, Most Improved)

USBC LietimeFormer ABC Lietime and WIBC Permanent Membership will be recognized by USBC Headquarters Member-ship dues will be credited by USBC to the appropriate state and local association(s) upon submission o themembership application In addition, USBC will reimburse membership dues or one local association andone state association per season

Optional BenetsUSBC:a May oer optional benets or members at dues refective o the value o services provided by

USBC, state and/or local associationsb May oer optional benets or men, women and youth bowlers who choose to be identied with

USBC Dues will refect the level o membership privileges, services and benets providedc Determines dues or USBC and establishes the maximum amount o state and local dues only or

optional benets

The association must oer all levels o membership as established by USBC

USBC is authorized to test optional benets prior to oering them, and to waive those specic bylaws, rulesand regulations required or testing and implementation

Youth Membership Eligibility

Rule 400a Except as provided in Item B, a youth may not bowl, substitute or pace in any bowling activity which

oers any o the ollowing as prizes:1 Cash or bonds2 Merchandise exceeding $500 in value

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b Youth may bowl in singles competitions (including side competitions/brackets) oering such prizes,provided, prior to bowling:1 The competition agrees to award the youths prize in the orm o a scholarship; or2 The youth signs the USBC Singles Competition Prize Waiver waiving his/her rights to any prize

in violation o this rule

In youth competition, youth members may participate in side competitions/brackets provided all entries arereturned 100% in the orm o scholarships only and awards comply with Item A above

Buying or selling o earned prizes is prohibitedAny youth bowler deemed in violation o this rule is subject to disciplinary action including the potential losso youth membership

NOTE: There are no limits on scholarship amounts or entry ees (must be paid directly to the tournament director/manager) and reimbursement o actual travel expenses into the next higherlevel o competition or any tournament or event (Receipts must be provided upon request)

The prizes authorized by a state high school athletic association or a collegiate athletic association recognizedby USBC and USBC Collegiate are not subject to the limitations o this rule

Amendment ProceduresAmendments submitted by a member or chartered association to the USBC General Playing Rules, AdultLeague and Tournament Rules must be in writing to the USBC ED by September 1 prior to the date o thenext USBC Annual Meeting or action by the delegates

The USBC Board, by a two-thirds vote, amends the USBC Awards and Youth League and Tournament RulesThe USBC Board also has authority to adopt Resolutions

The Equipment Specications and Certication Committee, acting or and on behal o the USBC Board, areauthorized to have nal authority to alter or change specications All proposed amendments to certica-tion regulations or measurement specications must be submitted in writing to USBC Headquarters

Membership MeetingsWith the exception o aliate status associations, the local association is required to hold at least one

membership meeting each seasonAt a membership meeting, elective positions are lled according to the provisions o Article V o the localassociation bylaws

The meeting is open to the entire membership o the association and is under the direction o the board All

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Chapter 2: General Playing Rules 13

regular business is considered at the meeting

The president may call other membership meetings as considered necessary, but shall call a meeting o theassociation upon written request o at least three board members or at least 25 members o the association

The association manager orwards a written notice o all membership meetings to each league secretary andthe association board All notices should be orwarded to the league secretaries and association board at least15 days in advance o the meeting The league secretary shall notiy the members o the league

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Chapter 2: General Playing Rules

Rule 1 - USBC Certifcation

Leagues and tournaments must be organized and bowled in accordance with USBC Bylaws, rules and regula-tions These events must be scheduled on lanes that currently are USBC certied and only USBC approvedequipment may be used

Rule 2 The Game2a DenitionA game o American tenpins consists o ten (10) rames A player delivers two balls in each o the rst nine

rames unless a strike is scored In the 10th rame, a player delivers three balls i a strike or spare is scoredEvery rame must be completed by each player bowling in regular order

2b How ScoredExcept when a strike is scored, the number o pins knocked down by the players rst delivery is to be markednext to the small square in the upper right-hand corner o that rame, and the number o pins knocked downby the players second delivery is to be marked inside the small square I none o the standing pins areknocked down by the second delivery in a rame, the scoresheet shall be marked with a (-) The count or the

two deliveries in the rame shall be recorded immediately

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

X30

X57

X76

7 285

8 /95

F 9104

X124

7 /143

9 -152

X X 8180

2c StrikeA strike is made when the ull setup o 10 pins is knocked down with the rst delivery in a rame It is markedby an (x) in the small square in the upper right-hand corner o the rame where it was made The count orone strike is 10 plus the number o pins knocked down on the players next two deliveries

2d DoubleTwo consecutive strikes is a double The count or the rst strike is 20 plus the number o pins knocked downwith the rst delivery ollowing the second strike

2e Triple or TurkeyThree successive strikes is a triple or turkey The count or the rst strike is 30 To bowl the maximum score o300, the player must bowl 12 strikes in succession

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2 SpareA spare is scored when pins let standing ater the rst delivery are knocked down with the second delivery inthat rame It is marked by a (/) in the small square in the upper right-hand corner o the rame The countor a spare is 10 plus the number o pins knocked down by the players next delivery

2g OpenAn open is recorded when a player ails to knock down all 10 pins ater two deliveries in a rame

2h SplitA split is a setup o pins let standing ater the rst delivery, provided the head pin is down and at least onepin is down:1 Between two or more standing pins; eg, 7-9 or 3-102 Immediately ahead o two or more standing pins; eg, 5-6

NOTE: A split is usually designated by a (0), but any other symbol may be used

Rule 3 - Modifed FormatCompetition in which a modied game o American Tenpins is played or bumpers are used may be certied byUSBC With the exception o bumpers, all USBC equipment specications shall apply to such competition andall USBC rules shall apply insoar as practical, in addition to the ollowing:

1 Games bowled using the modied ormat shall not be included in averages established in leagueplay or entry in standard American Tenpin competition

2 Only award scores bowled using the standard American Tenpin scoring system as described in Rule2a and meeting USBC equipment specications qualiy or USBC awards Members are not eligible orany USBC awards based on average

USBC may permit modications or variations in team play ormats or the purposes o exhibition events,

television bowling or playo matches resulting rom USBC tournament competition in the qualiying roundsThe results o such events should be included in the tournaments prize or awards programs

NOTE: For types and descriptions o modied ormats including Baker System, see the USBC LeagueOperations Handbook, Tournament Managers Manual, or bowlcom

Rule 4 Delivering the Ball

4a Legal DeliveryA delivery is made when the ball leaves the players possession and crosses the oul line into playing territoryEvery delivery counts unless a dead ball is declared (See Rule 8) A delivery must be made entirely bymanual means No device may be incorporated in or axed to the ball that detaches on delivery or is a mov-ing part during delivery except as provided in Rules 4b and 4c

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4b Special Equipment to Grip the BallA player may use special equipment to aid in grasping and delivering the ball i it is in place o a hand, ormajor portion thereo, lost by amputation or otherwise

4c Mechanical Aids to Grip the Ball Alternating DeliveryA player may, i granted permission by USBC Headquarters and each league or tournament in which theplayer participates, alternate right/let-handed delivery and/or use special equipment to aid in grasping anddelivering the ball1 Unless the individual is unable to impart orce or impetus to a ball, the aid cannot incorporate a

mechanical device with moving parts that would impart orce or impetus to the ball2 Permission may be granted i the ollowing is submitted to USBC Headquarters:

a A doctors certicate describing the disability and the reason to alternate right/let-handeddelivery and/or recommending the aid

b A description, drawing or model o the aid (only or mechanical aid)When authorization is given, USBC Headquarters will provide the player with a special card stating thatalternating right/let-handed delivery and/or the use o the specied mechanical aid has been approvedI permission is denied, the player has the right o appeal to the USBC Legal Committee Permission may be

withdrawn or cause4d Special Considerations to Deliver the Ball

A player unable to execute a delivery in accordance with any o the oregoing procedures may bowl in USBCcompetition provided:1 The leagues board o directors or tournament management authorizes such participation2 The leagues board o directors or tournament management establishes specic provisions to govern

such participation

The average established by the player is not acceptable in another league or tournament unless allowed bythe rules o that league or tournament The bowler is eligible or all USBC awards

4e Tournament Average RelieRelie o an average, due to injury or disability, or entry into a tournament must be approved by USBCHeadquarters in accordance with the ollowing:1 A player who has become injured or disabled may request relie o his/her USBC average by

providing the ollowing inormation to USBC Headquarters:a A doctors certicate describing the:

1) Disability or injury

2) Length o disability or injury3) Reason or a downward average adjustment

b Bowlers weekly game-by-game bowling record and current standing sheet rom each USBCcertied league in which the player is participating

2 I authorization is granted, USBC will notiy the player:a The minimum average a tournament may assign the player

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b The time limit or the relie3 Tournament Management may, prior to participation:

a Accept the bowlers highest current USBC certied league average, provided it meets or exceedsthe minimum established by USBC

b Assign the bowler an average that meets or exceeds the minimum established by USBC

c Deny the relie and require the bowler to use the average as stated in tournament rulesPermission may be withdrawn or cause

Rule 5 - Fouls5a DenitionA oul occurs when a part o the players body encroaches on or goes beyond the oul line and touches any

part o the lane, equipment or building during or ater a delivery A ball is in play ater a delivery until thesame or another player is on the approach in position to make a succeeding delivery

The certication and inspection committee o a local association can require that the oul line be plainlymarked on the walls, posts, division boards or any other structure in a bowling center on a line with theregular oul lineWhen a oul is recorded the delivery counts, but the player is not credited with any pins knocked down by that

delivery (See Rule 6b)

NOTE: The oul line is o innite length including walls, fooring, posts and ball returns A oul is notcommitted when oreign objects such as pens, jewelry, coins, cigarettes, etc, drop rom abowlers pocket or all rom a persons body or clothing (Footwear and clothing are consideredpart o the body) A player should request permission to cross the oul line to retrieve any itemsthat have allen beyond the oul line

5a/1 What happens when there is a dispute over a oul call?According to Rule 10, a provisional ball should be thrown when there is a controversyA provisional ball or rame shall be bowled when a protest involving a oul, cannot be resolved bythe two team captains

When a dispute over a oul occurs, the player shall complete the rame and then bowl oneprovisional ball The score sheet or printout and a record o both scores or the rame in whichthe provisional delivery is made, shall be kept The protest must be reerred to the leaguesboard o directors or a decision

5a/2 A player goes over the oul line while retaining possession o the ball Is this

considered a oul?No, a legal delivery must be executed or a oul to be committed A legal delivery is made whenthe ball leaves the players possession and crosses the oul line into playing territory

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5a/3 A member o a team crosses onto an adjacent approach when making a delivery Isthis considered a oul?A oul is not called when a bowler crosses onto an adjoining approach area However, i thebowler steps over the oul line on that lane, it is considered a oul

5a/4 Is a oul called when the ball rolls over the oul line during delivery and the oul

detector is activated?The bowling ball is not considered a part o the bowlers body I the bowler did not step on orgo beyond the oul line, a oul is not recorded

5b DeliberateWhen a player deliberately ouls to benet by the calling o a oul, the player shall be credited with zero pin-

all or that delivery and not allowed urther deliveries in that rame I questions arise, Rule 10, ProvisionalBall, should be ollowed

5c Foul DetectionA USBC approved automatic oul detecting device must be used, i available When not available or temporar-ily inoperative, the ollowing procedures shall be used to call ouls:1 In tournament play, management shall assign a oul judge or have the ocial scorers call ouls2 In league play, the opposing team captains shall call ouls or a oul judge shall be appointed

Failure to provide or the calling o ouls as specied shall disqualiy scores bowled or USBC high score awardconsideration5c/1 What happens i our oul lights are not available?

I not available the opposing captains call ouls or designate someone to act as a oul judgeUnder these circumstances, members o the league should be advised the captains areresponsible or the calling o ouls or they are to designate someone to act as a oul judge

5d ApparentA oul shall be declared and recorded i the automatic oul detecting device or oul judge ails to call a oulthat is apparent to:1 both captains, or one or more members o each o the opposing teams, or2 the ocial scorer, or3 a tournament ocial

I there is a dispute, reer to Rule 10, Provisional Ball

Rule 6 - Pinall6a Legal PinallPins to be credited to a player ollowing a legal delivery shall include:

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1 Pins knocked down or o the lane surace by the ball or another pin2 Pins knocked down or o the lane surace by a pin rebounding rom a side partition or rear cushion3 Pins knocked down or o the lane surace by a pin rebounding rom the sweep bar when it is at rest

on the pin deck beore sweeping dead wood rom the pin deck4 Pins that lean and touch the kickback or side partition All such pins are termed dead wood and must

be removed beore the next deliveryNo pins may be conceded, and only pins actually knocked down or moved entirely o the playing area o thelane surace as a result o a legal delivery may be counted

6b Illegal PinallWhen any o the ollowing occur, the delivery counts but the resulting pinall does not:1 A ball leaves the lane beore reaching the pins2 A ball rebounds rom the rear cushion

3 A pin rebounds ater coming in contact with the body, arms or legs o a human pinsetter4 A pin is touched by mechanical pinsetting equipment5 Any pin knocked down when dead wood is being removed6 Any pin knocked down by a human pinsetter7 The player commits a oul8 A delivery is made with dead wood on the lane or in the gutter and the ball contacts such dead wood

beore leaving the lane surace9 A delivery is made with dead wood on the lane or in the gutter, and a pin, ater coming into contact

with the dead wood, knocks down one or more pinsI an illegal pinall occurs and the player is entitled to additional deliveries in the rame, the pin(s) illegallyknocked down must be respotted where it (they) originally stood beore delivery o the ball

Rule 7 - Pins7a Improperly Set

It is each players responsibility to determine i a setup is correct The player shall insist that any pin(s) incor-rectly set be respotted beore delivering the ball, otherwise the setup is deemed to be acceptableWhen bowling at a ull setup or to make a spare, i it is discovered immediately ater the delivery that one ormore pins are set improperly, but not missing, the delivery and resulting pinall countNo change can be made in the position o any pin(s) let standing ater the bowlers rst delivery, unless:1 The pinsetter moved or misplaced any pin(s), or;

2 Any standing pin(s) is (are) outside the range o the sweep barAny such pin(s) will be respotted where it (they) originally stood beore the delivery

7b ReboundingPins that rebound and stand on the lane must be counted as standing pins

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7c ReplacementShould a pin be broken or otherwise badly damaged during the game, it shall be replaced at once by anotherpin as nearly uniorm in weight and condition with the set in use The league or tournament ocials shalldetermine whether pins shall be replacedA broken pin does not change the score made by the bowler The pins knocked down are counted, ater whichthe broken pin is replaced

Rule 8 - Dead BallWhen a dead ball is called, the delivery does not count and the correct pins must be respotted The player isallowed to rebowl that delivery

A ball shall be declared dead i any o the ollowing occur:a Ater a delivery, attention is immediately called to the act that one or more pins were missing rom

the setupb A human pinsetter intereres with any standing pin beore the ball reaches the pinsc A human pinsetter removes or intereres with any downed pin beore it stops rollingd A player bowls on the wrong lane or out o turn, or one player rom each team on the pair o lanes

bowls on the wrong lanee A player has physical contact with another person or moving object as the ball is being delivered and

beore delivery is completed In such case, the player has the option to accept the resulting pinall orhave a dead ball called

Any pin is moved or knocked down as a player delivers the ball but beore the ball reaches the pinsg A delivered ball comes in contact with a oreign obstacle

8/1 I an individual bowls out o turn does the delivery count?No, according to Rule 8, Item d, a dead ball would be declared and the correct bowler is thenrequired to continue play

8/2 A player made the rst delivery when the pinsetting machine was set on thesecond cycle Seven pins were knocked down and the remaining pins were sweptaway as the machine reverted to cycle one Should a dead ball have been declaredand the pins reset?Since the bowler made a legal delivery and the pins were properly set, there would be no basisor declaring the rst delivery a dead ball The three pins let standing would be reset or asecond delivery in accordance with Rule 6b

8/3 On the second delivery, the sweep bar comes down and defects the ball beore it

can make contact with the remaining pins When this happens, what should we do?According to Rule 8, Item g, a dead ball is declared when a players ball comes in contact withany oreign obstacle The sweep bar is considered a oreign obstacle, and the player is requiredto have the pin(s) remaining respotted and rebowl the second ball

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Rule 9 - Bowling on Wrong LaneIn league or tournament play, a dead ball shall be called and the player or players required to rebowl on thecorrect lane when:a One player bowls on the wrong laneb One player rom each team on the pair o lanes bowls on the wrong laneI more than one player on the same team bowls on the wrong lane in turn, all deliveries stand as bowledUpon discovery, bowlers shall complete subsequent rames on the correct lanesIn singles match play competition, where a player normally bowls two rames each time it is the players turnto bowl, and the player bowls on the wrong lanes, a dead ball shall be called and the player required to re-bowl on the correct lanes, providing the error was discovered beore the opposing player has made a delivery

Otherwise, the score stands as bowled, with all subsequent rames in the game bowled on the correct lanes

Rule 10 - Provisional BallA provisional ball or rame shall be bowled when a protest involving a oul, legal pinall or a dead ball ismade and cannot be resolved by the two team captains or a tournament ocial

The ollowing procedures apply when a dispute occurs:

a For the rst ball o any rame, or ater the second ball in the 10th rame i the rst ball was a strike:1 Foul: The player shall complete the rame and then bowl one provisional ball at a ull setup

o pins2 Illegal Pinall: The player shall complete the rame and then bowl one provisional ball at the

same setup which would have remained standing had the disputed pin(s) not have allen3 Dead Ball: The player shall complete the rame and then bowl a complete provisional rame

b On a spare attempt or the third ball o the 10th rame:1 Foul and Illegal Pinall: No provisional ball is necessary

2 Dead Ball: A provisional ball shall be bowled at the same setup which was standing when thedisputed ball was bowled

The scoresheet and a record o both scores or the rame in which the provisional delivery was made shallbe kept The protest must be reerred to the leagues board o directors or tournament management or adecision I they are unable to make a decision, the local association or USBC can be asked or a decision onsubmission o the acts relating to the protest

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Rule 11 - Foreit - Delay o GameNo unreasonable delay in the progress o any game is permitted I a player or team in a league or tourna-ment reuses to proceed with a game ater being directed to do so by a league or tournament ocial, thegame or series shall be declared oreited

Rule 12 - Approaches Must Not Be Deaced

The application o any oreign substance on any part o the approach that detracts rom the possibility o otherplayers having normal conditions is prohibited This includes, but is not limited to talcum powder, pumice andresin on shoes, and/or sot rubber soles or heels that rub o on the approach

12/1 One o the bowlers is having a dicult time sliding on the approach and applies

a commercial product purchased at the center pro shop to the bottom o his/hershoes The product is designed to help a bowler slide The secretary says shehas received a complaint rom the opposing team and noties the individual tostop using the substance or the game will be oreited Can an ocer tell a bowlerto stop using the substance and declare the game oreited?Commercial products, talcum powder or any substance applied to the shoe or approach couldbe in violation o Rule 12 I a league participant uses a substance and somebody complainsthat it prohibits him/her rom having normal conditions, the league ocer should require

the individual to immediately stop his/her action I the individual reuses, his/her games aresubject to oreiture

Rule 13 - Parental ConsentUnmarried grade school and high school students under the age o 18 must have written consent o a parentor guardian beore participating in any USBC league or tournament where any participant is awarded cash,bonds, git certicates or merchandise prizes

Such consent must be on le with the league secretary or tournament manager at least one week beoreparticipation when the youth is unaccompanied by a parent or guardian I the youth is accompanied by his/her parent or guardian the orm must be submitted prior to his/her participation Failure to le the consentorm will cause the player to be ineligible and subject games bowled to oreiture or disqualication

The consent shall be given in the ollowing orm:

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PARENTAL CONSENT FORM

I, _______________________, am the parent or legal guardian o________________________, an unmarried grade school or high school student under the age o18 By signing this orm I am authorizing my child to bowl or substitute in the ___________________

(competitions name), a league/tournament that oers merchandise over $500, cash or bonds

I veriy I have read and reviewed USBC Rule 400 (see below) and understand the competition I have autho-rized my child to participate in violates the rule jeopardizing his/her USBC Youth eligibility

I recognize that by bowling or substituting in competition which violates Rule 400, his/her amateur status maybe jeopardized I understand that to ensure compliance with high school and collegiate rules I should check

with a compliance ocer and/or academic counselor at his/her school

Parental Signature: ______________________________Date: _______________

RULE 400: Youth Membership Eligibility

a Except as provided in Item B, a youth may not bowl, substitute or pace in any bowling activity whichoers any o the ollowing as prizes:1 Cash or bonds

2 Merchandise exceeding $500 in valueb Youth may bowl in singles competitions (including side competitions/brackets) oering such prizes,

provided, prior to bowling:1 The competition agrees to award the youths prize in the orm o a scholarship; or2 The youth signs a orm waiving his/her rights to any prize in violation o this rule

In youth competition, youth members may participate in side competitions/brackets provided all entries arereturned 100% in the orm o scholarships only and awards comply with Item A above

Buying or selling o earned prizes is prohibited

Any youth bowler deemed in violation o this rule is subject to disciplinary action including the potential loss oyouth membership

NOTE: There are no limits on scholarship amounts or entry ees (must be paid directly to thetournament director/manager) and reimbursement o actual travel expenses into the next

higher level o competition or any tournament or event(Receipts must be provided upon request)

The prizes authorized by a state high school athletic association or a collegiate athletic association recognizedby USBC and USBC Collegiate are not subject to the limitations o this rule

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Rule 14 - Supplemental FeesNo member o USBC shall participate or be involved in the operation o a scheme or arrangement requiring asupplemental ee o any type or character or the purpose o having any part or all o a players score in USBCleague or tournament play qualiy or a prize where competing entrants bowl in dierent bowling centers,except as ollows:a Mail-o-graphic leagueb Mail-o-graphic tournamentc League scores may be used to determine prize winners in a supplementary contest when the

ollowing conditions are observed:1 A minimum o two-thirds o the gross collected as entry ees must be donated to a recognized

charitable organization2 Entry is made available to all bowlers in a single local association and its metropolitan area

3 Operating costs shall not exceed 10 percent o entry ee

Penalty: Membership may be suspended or denied to anyone who is a participant or involved in aviolation o this rule

Rule 15 - GamblingA member o USBC, while bowling in USBC competition, shall not participate or be involved in the operation o

any gambling scheme which is in violation o any applicable law, where all or part o a score bowled in USBCplay determines the winnerContests or schemes which threaten the integrity o the game and/or entice a player to bowl beneath his/herability are strictly prohibitedMembership may be suspended or denied to anyone who is a participant or involved in the violation othis rule

NOTE: Side competitions/brackets in leagues/tournaments where the participating bowlers pay a ee,

optional or otherwise, and receive prizes or high game and/or series, with or withouthandicap, do not violate the rule because these involve merit pinall based solely on the skill othe participant

Rule 16 - Suspended Bowler Ineligible

A suspended bowler or a bowler who has been denied USBC or CTF membership is ineligible to bowl, pace orhold oce in any USBC league or tournament until reinstatedPenalty: When a team:

1 Unknowingly uses a suspended bowler, games are subject to oreiture in accordance withRule 119

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2 Knowingly uses a suspended bowler, it shall oreit all games in which the suspended playerwas used and all involved are subject to suspension

Rule 17 Grounds or Disciplinary Action

17a Unair TacticsAn individual can be charged with attempting to gain an unair advantage in league or tournament play orthe ollowing reasons:1 Directly or indirectly tampering with lanes, pins or bowling balls so they no longer meet

USBC specications2 Misrepresenting an average to gain a greater handicap, or qualiy or a lower classication in

an event3 Establishing an average below the players ability to gain an unair advantage in handicap or

classied competitionPenalty: Loss o games, prize winnings, league removal (see Rules 115a or 115c), and subject to suspen-

sion rom or denial o USBC membership

NOTE: A complaint may be led only in the current season or the season immediately ollowing thealleged violation The complaint shall be in writing and detail the charges against themember(s) and the USBC rule(s) involved The complaint shall be signed by the person(s)

making the charges and led with USBC Headquarters

17b Improper ConductAn individual can also be charged with the ollowing violation(s):1 Engaging in improper tactics or conduct in connection with the game o bowling including, but not

limited to, physical and verbal abuse toward other persons2 Failing to distribute prize money to team members consistent with verbal or written agreements3 Failing to pay ees due or participation in a USBC league or tournament (See Rule 115b or league

procedures to suspend an individual or nonpayment o league ees)4 Misusing/mishandling/misappropriation o any unds held in trust by an ocer o a USBC league,

an adult supervisor or coach o a youth league, or a board member o a chartered USBC local or stateassociation

5 Miseasance, maleasance, or noneasance o oceMiseasance The perormance o a lawul action in an illegal mannerMaleasance Wrong doing or misconductNoneasance Failure to act, especially ailure to do what should be done

Penalty: Membership may be suspended or denied to anyone who is involved in a violation o this ruleLeagues may also remove the individual ollowing the provisions in Rule 115a or 115c

NOTE: A complaint may be led only in the current season or the season immediately ollowing the

alleged violation The complaint shall be in writing and detail the charges against the

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member(s) and the USBC rule(s) involved The complaint shall be signed by the person(s)making the charges and led with USBC Headquarters

17c Improper Conduct by Adult LeaderAn adult leader, while involved in youth activities, can be charged with improper conduct which is not in thebest interest o youth bowling including, but not limited to the ollowing:1 Using tobacco products, illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages2 Using oul language or gestures3 Wearing clothing depicting oul language or gesturesAn adult leader includes any individual acting in an ocial capacity during a youth activity including, butnot limited to the ollowing: league supervisors, league ocials, tournament managers, league coordinators,

in-state instructors, certied coaches, youth directors or designated coaches having leadership in prescribedareas o youth involvementPenalty: Membership may be suspended or denied to anyone who is involved in a violation o this rule

NOTE: A complaint may be led only in the current season or the season immediately ollowing thealleged violation The complaint shall be in writing and detail the charges against themember(s) and the USBC rule(s) involved The complaint shall be signed by the person(s)


17d Youth ConductIndividuals holding youth membership can be removed rom competition/unctions and/or suspended/deniedmembership or the ollowing:1 Conduct derogatory to the best interest o youth bowling including, but not limited to, the ollowing

in conjunction with youth competition and unctions:a Using tobacco products, illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages

b Using oul language or gesturesc Wearing clothing depicting oul language or gestures

2 Prior adjudication o delinquency or conviction o a crime including, but not limited to, crimesinvolving physical or mental abuse or sexual assault


alleged violation The complaint shall be in writing and detail the charges against themember(s) and the USBC rule(s) involved The complaint shall be signed by the person(s)


17e Inractions o Rule 400 - Youth Membership EligibilityUpon witnessing, or being inormed o an inraction, the adult leader shall do the ollowing:1 Explain to the youth bowler:

a How they violated Rule 400 and that youth membership could be suspended or denied because

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o the violationb They must stop bowling in the activity immediatelyc Any cash or awards received in violation o Rule 400 must be returnedd The violation will be documented with USBC Headquarters

2 File a written report to USBC Headquarters The report should be led within seven days o contacting

the youth bowler and include:a Bowlers name, address and birthdateb Date and location o activityc How they violated Rule 400d List any cash or awards received in violation o Rule 400 and/or returned

The individuals membership status remains unchanged until a decision is made by USBC Headquarters

17 Using Assumed NameNo person shall bowl under an assumed name or under the name o another person scheduled to bowl in aUSBC league or tournamentPenalty: Foreiture o games in which the player was used and all ound to be involved are subject to

suspension


alleged violation The complaint shall be in writing and detail the charges against themember(s) and the USBC rule(s) involved The complaint shall be signed by the person(s)making the charges and led with USBC Headquarters

Rule 18 - Bowling Ball - Altering Surace

Altering the surace o a bowling ball by the use o abrasives while bowling in USBC competition is prohibited

All bowling balls so altered must be removed rom the competition (See Specs Manual on bowlcom)

NOTE: I it is shown the bowler had prior knowledge his/her actions were in violation o Rule 18, thegame(s) in which the violation occurred is (are) subject to oreiture In addition, the bowler is

subject to dismissal rom the league and suspension o membership

Competition is dened as the remainder o the current game and remaining game(s) in theseries being bowled

The use o approved cleaning agents such as isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and polishingmachines is permissible

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18/1 When can an approved cleaner be used on a bowling ball?Unless otherwise provided by league or tournament rule, cleaners approved by USBC can beused on bowling balls at any time during USBC competition For a complete list o approvedand non-approved cleaning agents, see bowlcom

18/ 2 When may I alter the surace o my bowling ball?

a Cleaning Cleaners approved or use anytime may be utilized beore, during or atercertied competition; Cleaners approved or only beore and ater certied competitionmay only be used during these times

b Sanding You are permitted to sand the surace o your bowling balls prior to certiedcompetition, however, the use o abrasives is strictly prohibited ater the start ocompetition

c Polishing You are permitted to polish the surace o your bowling ball prior to certied

competition However, once tournament or league play begins, the use o a ball spinner isstrictly prohibited; only an automated, sel-contained polishing machine may be used

18/3 A tournament consists o doubles and singles events The singles event is bowledrst immediately ollowed by the doubles Can I sand my bowling ball betweenevents?No, Rule 18 does not allow the outer surace o any bowling ball to be altered with an abrasive

ater the start o competition This includes balls that have not yet been introduced into playThe start o competition is dened as the point the rst ball is thrown by any participant orscore Since the tournament is conducting singles and doubles concurrently, you cannot alterthe surace o the bowling ball (including sanding) between events

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Chapter 3: Awards 29

Chapter 3: Awards

Rule 50 EligibilityUSBC will recognize the achievements listed in this chapter bowled by USBC members participating in USBC

standard leagues and tournaments To qualiy or recognition all provisions o the USBC Bylaws, specicationsand rules must have been complied with at the time the score was bowled (See Rules 100a and 300b) USBCHigh Score Awards designated with an (*) cannot be earned while pre or post bowling unopposed Scores aredetermined on a scratch basis

Rule 51a - Single Game Awards1 Youth Awards

USBC Youth Standard members participating in USBC Standard youth competition will be recognized

or the ollowing game accomplishmentsa 300*b Eleven (11) strikes in a row when the score is 299 or less *c 125 to 299 games in 25 pin incrementsd Special awards available to youth ages 12 and below 50 to 100 games in 25 pin increments

The bowlers average must be less than the game bowled Awards are limited to once perseason per achievement Once an award has been earned in any classication, bowlers areonly eligible or the higher awards on a progressive merit basis

2 Adult AwardsA member is eligible or one award in each o the ollowing categories during a scal year(August 1-July 31):a 300*b 275 to 299 with a 200 average or belowc 250 to 274 with a 180 average or belowd 225 to 249 with a 160 average or belowe 200 to 224 with a 145 average or below

175 to 199 with a 130 average or belowg 150 to 174 with a 110 average or belowh 125 to 149 with a 90 average or belowi Eleven (11) strikes in a row when the score is 299 or less*

3 Where a choice o awards is available in any category the member is entitled to a choice o an awardor the rst score recorded Any additional score in the same category that scal year will be ociallyrecognized by USBC, but will not qualiy or an award

*Cannot be earned while pre or post bowling unopposed.

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Rule 51b - Series Awards1 Three consecutive games must be bowled in league or tournament play to qualiy or series awards

For average requirements on average based awards, see Rule 53Youth AwardsUSBC Youth Standard members participating in USBC Standard youth competition will be recognizedor the ollowing accomplishments:a 900*b 800*c 300 to 799 series in 50 pin incrementsd Special awards available to youth ages 12 and below 100 to 300 series in 50 pin increments

The bowlers series average must be less than the series bowled Awards are limited to once perseason per achievement Once an award has been earned in any classication, bowlers areonly eligible or the higher awards on a progressive merit basis A two game series ormat

is eligible2 Adult Awards

A member is eligible or one award in each o the ollowing three game series categories during ascal year (August 1-July 31):a 900 series*b 800 to 899*c 700 to 799 with a 190 average or belowd 600 to 699 with a 160 average or below

e 500 to 599 with a 130 average or below 400 to 499 with a 105 average or belowg 300 to 399 with a 80 average or below

3 QualicationsThree consecutive games must be bowled in league or tournament play to qualiy or series awardsFor adult average requirements or average based awards, see Rule 531 A series shall be gured as ollows:

a I more than three but less than six games are bowled, use the rst three games

b I six or more games are bowled, use each succeeding set o three games ollowing therst three games

2 In tournament play, each three game series must be bowled in the same block3 A series o games can be bowled consecutively against one or more opponents4 Games must be bowled on the same date5 Where a choice o awards is available in any category the member is entitled to a choice o and

award or the rst score recorded Any additional score in the same category that scal yearwill be ocially recognized by USBC, but will not qualiy or an award


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Chapter 3: Awards 31

51c National Team High Game and Series*During each scal year, an award will be issued by USBC to each member o the team who bowls the highestscratch score in the nation in each o the ollowing classications:

Men Only Teams Game Series5-player 1325 37004-player 1050 29003-player 825 22502-player 550 1550

Mixed Teams Game Series5-player 1250 3600

4-player 1000 28003-player 750 22002-player 525 1500

Women Only Teams Game Series5-player 1175 34254-player 950 27503-player 725 2075

2-player 500 1350


Youth Teams:To determine which age group, use the age o the oldest bowler

2-Player 3-Player 4-Player 5-Player

Game Series Game Series Game Series Game Series8 and Under 140 420 210 630 280 840 350 10509-11 200 600 300 900 400 1200 500 150012-14 260 780 390 1170 520 1560 650 195015-18 350 1050 525 1575 700 2100 875 262519-22 420 1260 630 1890 840 2520 1050 3150

Rule 51d - Baker 300 Game Award*

All teams utilizing the Baker System that bowl a game o 300 are eligible to receive a sponsors award Eachteam is eligible or one award during the scal year

*Cannot be earned while pre or post bowling unopposed

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Rule 51e - Reporting ProceduresScores o 300 game; 800 series or better by an individual in a three-game series; a Baker team game o 300;or a qualiying National Team High Game or Series, must be reported1 The ollowing procedures apply or reporting such scores:

a The league or tournament secretary shall notiy the local association within 48 hours andsubmit a completed high score award application within 20 days

b The association manager shall submit a completed high score application to USBC Headquartersvia WinLABS as soon as possible, but not more than 7 days ater receipt

2 I an award is not approved administratively, the applicant will be notied in writing explaining thereason(s) or denial I within 15 days o receipt o the written notice the applicant les a writtenappeal, the claim will be submitted or nal decision to USBC Headquarters

NOTE: The above procedures are in eect until such time as a ourth decision o noncompliance occurs

At that time USBC will notiy center management and league and tournament ocials thatwhen any o the above scores are bowled, the lanes must be inspected or compliance

Rule 52a - Merit Awards*The highest average, single game and three game series or a male, emale, youth male and youth emale ineach local association will be issued a merit award under the ollowing conditions:1 The average, game or series was bowled by a member o the association in a USBC league or

tournament within the jurisdiction o the association The average must be based on a minimum o

66 games, and the winner o the award is decided on the percentage o a ull pin2 The nal average sheet, or the average sheet as o a date set by the association, is led with

the association3 The score was bowled between August 1 and July 31, except associations that publish an average

book may adopt a specic date or determining award winners Scores bowled ater that date will becounted toward the next seasons competition

4 Duplicate awards shall be presented in case o ties5 The single game merit award will not be issued in an association when a member, during the same

season or within the dates set by the association, has bowled a 300 that has or will be recognizedby USBC

6 No claim will be considered i submitted more than 30 days ater the close o the bowling season inwhich the score was bowled

*Cannot be earned while pre or post bowling unopposed

Rule 52b - National High Average

Each scal year, recognition will be given to the USBC male, emale, youth male and youth emale memberhaving the highest USBC average, based on 66 or more games bowled as a USBC member in a USBC league1 Qualiying averages are reported to the local association on the nal average sheet submitted to the

association by the league secretary2 The association is to orward inormation concerning those members who have attained a qualiying

average to USBC Headquarters

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Rule 54a - Most Improved Bowler AwardEach league will be issued an award(s) annually based on the type o league to provide recognition or themale, emale, youth male, and/or youth emale member who shows the greatest improvement in average inthe league during its season1 The award is to be given to the bowler who is eligible, regardless o how many league awards the

bowler qualied or2 The ollowing rules apply unless the league adopts its own rules to decide the award winner:

a To qualiy or the award, a member must bowl at least two-thirds o the games scheduledduring the leagues current season

b A bowlers increase in average is determined by comparing the bowlers nal average or thecurrent season with that bowlers nal or book average o at least 21 games or the precedingseason in the same league

c For a new member with an established average, compare the bowlers nal average or the

current season with that bowlers highest nal or book average, based on at least 21 games,or the preceding season

d For a bowler with no average or the preceding season, compare the bowlers nal averageor the current season with that bowlers average or the rst 12 games during thecurrent season

e When two or more members have the same ull pin increase, the winner o the award isdecided on the basis o the percentage o a ull pin

Rule 54b - Youth League High SeriesEach league will be issued awards annually based on the type o league to provide recognition or the youthmale, and/or youth emale member who bowls the highest series during the season1 The award is to be given to the bowler who is eligible, regardless o how many league awards they

qualied or2 The ollowing rules apply unless the league adopts its own rules to decide the award winner:

a The USBC member must have bowled at least two-thirds o the games scheduled during theleagues current season as a USBC member

1) I a substitute later becomes a regular member o the league, the games bowled as asubstitute shall be included in the required number o games

2) The scores bowled as a substitute shall not qualiy or this awardb Actual scores are to count in scratch leagues and or leagues using the team method

o handicappingc Handicap scores are to count in leagues using the individual method o handicapping

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Chapter 4: League Rules 35

Chapter 4: League Rules

Rule 100 Leagues

100a QualicationsUSBC will certiy leagues participating in the game o American tenpins with the ollowing provisions:1 All leagues must meet the ollowing requirements:

a Apply or certication through the local association in whose jurisdiction it bowlsb Consist o our or more teams with the playing strength o one or more players per team as

determined by league rulec Bowl in accordance with a prearranged schedule based on the number o teams in the leagued Adopt rules and prize list (i any) (See Rule 103b and 122) (Suggested adult league rules can

be ound on bowlcom)e All players seeking membership must be qualied under the bylaws o USBC (See USBCIntroduction, Chapter 1)

Provide or the designation o a team champion by the games bowled in scheduled competitiong Govern themselves by USBC rules Other rules may be added, but must not confict with

USBC rules2 Three consecutive games are to be bowled by each team every time the league is scheduled to bowl,

unless another number o games has been established by league rule To be considered ocial in

league play, all games must be bowled and conducted in strict compliance with the playing rules3 A league is temporarily certied at the start o its current schedule or 30 days counting the rst dayo competition

4 The league will be eligible or all membership services while temporarily certied provided the laneson which it bowls are certied and its league application and membership ees are submitted on orbeore the end o the grace period

100a/1 Is the bowling center required to provide an open lane(s) on either side

o a league during league play?USBC does not have a rule requiring open lanes be provided on either side o a league duringleague play Whenever leagues have concerns regarding this issue, it is recommended theleague ocers, or a committee appointed by the league president, address the matter withcenter management

100a/2 Can 16-year-olds bowl in a USBC Adult league?

Yes, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements set by the league In addition, i they arean unmarried high school student and the league oers prizes that violate Rule 400, a parentor guardian is required to sign a Parental Consent Form as specied in Rule 13 o the PlayingRules book This orm cautions parents/guardians o the possible consequences i the youthbowls in a USBC league or tournament I it is singles competition oering such prizes, theleague would have to agree to award the youths prize in the orm o a scholarship or theyouth must sign a orm waiving his/her rights to any prize in violation o Rule 400 A copy o

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the Parental Consent Form and USBC Singles Competition Prize Waiver is available on the Rulessection o bowlcom

100b MixedA mixed league is one in which both women and men participate Teams may be composed o all women, all

men or both women and men

100c YouthA youth league is one in which all participants hold USBC Youth membership and complies with the YouthMembership Eligibility requirements o Rule 400 All youth leagues must govern themselves by USBC leaguerules (Suggested youth league rules can be ound on bowlcom)1 Leagues shall be comprised o males and emales, unless otherwise provided by league rule2 Leagues are organized by age division or ability as stated in the league rules

3 The league shall be under the supervision o an adult league ocial/supervisor who shall operatethe youth league in cooperation with the bowling center management and the leagues board odirectors, i applicable (See Rule 103a)

4 Scholarship Leagues: Leagues may oer scholarships as awards I oered, the ollowing proceduresmust be completed within 30 days ollowing completion o the league schedule:a Provide the winners with inormation in writing on how to apply or undsb Forward to USBC Headquarters:

1) All scholarship unds awarded or deposit with the SMART program

2) A prize list with the name and USBC member ID number o each prize winner and theprize issued

5 Moral Support Leaguesa Types:

1) Scholastic League A Scholastic League is comprised o USBC Youth members andnon-members who belong to a specic scholastic group Scholastic league status will beissued provided:a) Entry is limited to those aliated with the organization conducting the league

b) A group has an athletic association restriction (When there is no restriction, theleague cannot be a scholastic league)

c) Anyone under suspension rom, or who has been reused membership in USBC orCTF, will not be allowed to participate

2) Fraternal League A Fraternal League is comprised o USBC Youth members and non-members who belong to a specic national youth organization Fraternal leaguestatus will be issued provided:a) Entry is limited to those aliated with the organization conducting the league

b) The national youth organization has 501(C)(3) statusc) Anyone under suspension rom, or who has been reused membership in USBC or

CTF, will not be allowed to participateb Permission The ollowing must be orwarded to USBC Headquarters,

Attention: Membership

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1) Moral Support League orm, which can be obtained by contacting the Rules Department2) For Scholastic Leagues, a copy o the athletic association rules stating the

restriction that its members are prohibited rom being mandated to obtainther membership

3) For Fraternal Leagues, a copy o the 501(C)(3) letter o determination

USBC Youth members may participate in moral support leagues with award recognition automaticallyextended Prior to participation, eligible non-members may qualiy or USBC award recognition by purchasingUSBC Youth membership and paying the applicable USBC, state and local association dues

100d Adult/YouthAn adult/youth league is one in which youth members bowl with adults in leagues where no cash or bondsare oered or merchandise prizes exceeding $500 in value Awards to youth bowlers must conorm to awards

permitted under the USBC Youth Eligibility Rule 400 Adults can receive individual adult awards Scores oradults and youths cannot be combined or any USBC national, state or local awards

NOTE: Any orm o gambling by adult members may jeopardize USBC Youth membership, eligibilityand/or amateur standing

100d/1 May the adults in the league smoke or drink alcohol?

Although USBC preers that other adults participating in the league rerain rom smoking or

drinking only the ocer must abide by Rule 17c, Item 1, which prohibits the use o tobaccoproducts and alcoholic beverages while involved in youth activities For other adults it is up tothe center to set a more comprehensive rule or policy

100e TravelingA league scheduled to bowl in more than one bowling center is a traveling league Traveling leagues shall begoverned by the ollowing:1 In traveling leagues bowling in more than one association, the league application shall be led

through the association decided upon by:

a Adult leagues: A majority vote o the team captainsb Youth leagues: The league supervisor

2 Players in a traveling league are required to join the association through which the league isaliated i they have not already applied or a current seasons membership throughanother association

3 Final averages shall be submitted to the association through which the league is aliated4 A traveling league which includes international competition and bowls a portion o its schedule in

certied centers as well as centers outside the jurisdiction o USBC shall be eligible to apply or

certication subject to the ollowing:a Govern themselves by all USBC general playing and league rulesb High score award and average recognition shall be provided or scores bowled in USBC

certied centersc Only players whose home lanes are within USBC jurisdiction would be required to obtain

USBC membership

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100 ClosedA closed league is one in which membership is drawn exclusively rom religious, raternal, civic, employment,military or similar local organizations having a common interest USBC league rules shall apply to all USBCclosed leagues, in addition to the ollowing:1 Membership is shared within the league Bowlers rom a closed USBC league bowling in other USBC

leagues must hold individual membership2 All questions o eligibility shall be decided by USBC

100g HandicapA handicap league is one in which handicap is added to a bowlers score to place bowlers and teams withvarying degrees o skill on as equitable a basis as possible or scheduled competition USBC league rules shallapply to all USBC handicap leagues, in addition to the ollowing:1 The percentage shall be 100 percent, unless otherwise provided by league rule

2 When the rules are adopted, each handicap league shall decide whether the individual or teammethod o handicapping will be used

3 Handicap shall be gured according to the ollowing:a Adult leagues: From the average o each bowler as provided by league ruleb Youth leagues: Unless otherwise provided by league rule, or the rst session

handicap shall be gured ater the current average has been establishedThereater, handicap will be gured on the current average

4 Handicap shall not be limited, unless otherwise provided by league rule

5 The combined current average o each o the players bowling on a team shall be the team average6 When guring handicap or averages, ractions are to be dropped

(Download a handicap chart on bowlcom)100h SeniorA senior league is composed o participants who are 55 years o age or over USBC league rules shall apply toall USBC senior leagues, in addition to the ollowing:1 Senior league bowlers are eligible or all USBC awards and services

2 A senior league may, by rule, allow bowlers 50 years o age and older, and members spouses underthe age o 55 to compete in the league

100i SummerA league that starts ater March 15 and beore August 1 is a summer league USBC league rules shall apply toall USBC summer leagues, in addition to the ollowing:1 Members who have a valid current season membership are eligible to bowl in USBC summer leagues2 I the league schedule extends beyond October 1, every member o the league must be in possession

o or provide proo o payment o the current seasons membership ees in keeping with theprovisions o Rule 101

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100j ManagedA managed league is one in which an individual, designated as the league manager, oversees the operation othe league The ollowing provisions apply to all USBC managed leagues:1 A league is organized and designated as a managed league prior to the start o the league schedule

An existing league, not specied as a managed league the previous season, may designate itsel asa managed league prior to the start o the league schedule by a two-thirds vote o the board odirectors, unless the league elects to have its rules adopted by the membership

2 Any USBC member may be a league manager and is responsible or the duties o secretary andtreasurer as described in Rules 102e and 102

3 The league manager is considered an ocer o the league and is bonded4 The manager has supervisory control o the technical operation o the league consistent with USBC

rules, to include:a Creation and distribution o the league rules and schedule prior to the start o the season

b Enorcement o league and USBC rulesc Creation and distribution o the prize list by the th week o competitiond Decisions on all disputes, complaints or protests involving any USBC or league rulese Decisions on the operation o the league when not in confict with the league and/or USBC rules

Decisions made by the league manager shall be nal unless a protest or appeal is made within the provisionso Rule 119

5 Ater the league schedule begins, a change in the league rules, schedule and prize list can only bemade with the written consent o every team captain or designated representative

6 The membership must elect a president and vice president who are responsible or his/her respectiveduties as outlined in Rules 102c, Item 6 and 102d

7 The league manager shall notiy the members or team captains o all league meetings and theollowing shall apply:a A quorum must be in attendanceb Absentee and proxy votes are not acceptable, and only members present are eligible to vote

8 Rules 102a, Items 3 and 4; 103b, Item 1; 117a and 121 do not apply to managed leagues

100k Match PointA match point league is one in which team position standings include individual match points Match pointleagues must ollow these rules, unless the league has adopted a dierent procedure:1 The team scheduled on the odd lane enters its lineup rst2 No change may be made in the order o players in the lineup during a series A substitute must take

the replaced bowlers position in the lineup

3 When bowling against an absentee or vacancy, to win the individual points the bowler must bowl atleast his/her average less ten (10) pins, unless the league rules have stated another number

4 I each team has the same number o absentees and/or vacancies, the players present must beplaced in opposition to each other or individual matches and the winning team credited with thepoints or the absentees/vacancies

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I one o two teams has an absentee or vacancy and a player on the opposing team is unable to complete theseries, any game in progress shall be completed with no change in the competing teams lineup However, thelineup o the team that lost its player must be changed i necessary, to comply with the provision o Item 4above or any subsequent game(s) in the series100k/1 I two opposing teams have an absent member, and one absent member shows up

to bowl games 2 and 3, does the captain change the lineup by placing the bowlerin a position where the player would have bowled i present or the rst game?No, the lineup stays the same The player bowling games 2 and 3 bowls in the position theabsentee score was used or game 1 According to the rule, no change may be made in theorder o players in the lineup during a series, unless league rules state dierently

100l Mail-o-Graphic

A mail-o-graphic league is one in which scores are submitted rom separate or the same competition, bowlingestablishment or association and are compared to qualiy or prizes in one common prize list The ollowingprovisions apply to all USBC mail-o-graphic leagues:1 All scores are submitted to the league secretary who enters the scores and determines team and/or

individual standings2 All scores used must be rom certied competition3 USBC will certiy such leagues provided:

a All USBC equipment specications apply

b All rules or USBC leagues shall apply insoar as applicablec Application must designate the league as a mail-o-graphic league

4 Individuals are not required to join the association through which the league is certied i already amember through another association

5 As the scores used in mail-o-graphic competition are already recognized in the certied competition inwhich they are actually bowled, they are not eligible or USBC national awards oraverage recognition

Rule 101 - Membership Fee Payment Requirements

To be eligible to bowl in a USBC league, a bowler must:a Complete an individual membership application in each league the bowler participates inb Pay or show proo o payment o USBC dues and the required association membership ees in eect

or the current season beore:1 Adult membership completion o the b

Documents

2009-2010 Playing Rules