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Awards

  • Luby Hall of Fame Award
  • Alberta E. Crowe Meritorious Service Award
  • Hennessy Award of Merit
  • Rip Van Winkle Award
  • Writing Competition
  • Bowler of the Year
  • Senior Bowler of the Year
  • IBMA Collegiate Bowler of the Year
    Presented by Storm Bowling
  • Historical Awards
  • Bowler of the Decade

Luby Hall of Fame Award

The IBMA Luby Hall of Fame Award is given to an individual (living or deceased) who has made a distinguished contribution to bowling in print, broadcast, telecast or photographic coverage over a period of at least ten years. The IBMA (BWAA/NWBW) has been presenting this award, considered the most prestigious bowling media award, for more than six decades.

The Award is named after the Luby family - Dave, Mort Sr. and Mort Jr. - for their dedication and longevity in the bowling print publication business.

Included in this award are awards won under previous organizations which include:

  • Bowling Writers Association of America (BWAA) Mort Luby Sr. Distinguished Service Award (1952 – 2007)
  • National Women Bowling Writers (NWBW) Alberta E. Crowe Meritorious Service Award (1983 – 2006)

IBMA Hall of Fame inductees also includes the World Bowling Writers (WBW) Hall of Fame Award (1993 – 2012)
WBW Hall of Famers are chosen strictly on the basis of athletic performance. To qualify for consideration, a player must have been amateur and accumulate a minimum of 15 points in any combination of four specifically designated international competitions; the Fédération Internationale des Quilleurs (FIQ) adult World Championships; the Bowling World Cup; the Fédération Internationale des Quilleurs (FIQ) adult Zone Masters Championships; and the Olympic Games.

2024 Luby Hall of Fame Winner

NICHOLSON

Bill Spigner

Spigner of Vernon Hills, Illinois, surpassed long-time Syracuse (New York) Post Standard writer Fran Piraino for the honor.

He compiled a record on the lanes that landed him in seven bowling halls of fame, including that of the USBC. He also has contributed to the sport as a top-level coach and, perhaps, somewhat under the radar, as a prolific writer.

Spigner authored an instructional column for every issue of Bowling Digest magazine, which was published from 1983 to 2004. In 2008, he became a senior writer for Bowlers Journal International, penning “The Pro Approach” column as well as occasional feature stories.

“I never dreamed anything like this. I never dreamed of halls of fame anyways and I kept getting into them,” he said. “I never considered myself a true journalist. I never had any education in writing anything or getting involved in writing until Bowling Digest. I wasn’t a true writer, but I learned an awful lot not only about bowling but how to structure an article. To be up there with the other guys in there is shocking.”

His writing also appeared in the Chicago Bowler for six years and in TenPin Alley for three years. All told, he has written more than 400 published instructional columns, helping bowlers of all skill levels improve their games and enjoy the sport more.

 

IBMA Luby Hall of Fame recipients

2024 - Bill Spigner
2023 - Mark London
2021 - Keith Hamilton
2020 - Len Nicholson
2019 - Harry Page, TX
2018 - Dan McDonough, NY
2017 - Johnny Campos, TX
2016 - Jim Goodwin, Rockwall, TX
2015 - Herbert Bickel, Germany
2014 - Hero Noda, Ibaraki, Japan
2013 - Dave Luby, Chicago, IL
2012 - R. F Corderman, Bedford, IA
2011 - Joan Taylor, East Stroudburg, PA
2010 - Lydia Rypcinski, Chicago, IL
2009 - Bob Johnson, Chicago, IL
2008 - Lyle Zikes, Palatine, IL

BWAA Mort Luby Sr. Distinguished Service Award winners

2007 - Hazel McLeary, Victoria, BC, Canada
2006 - Joe Gennaro, Dallas, TX
2005 - Frank Kietz, Lake Forest, CA
2004 - Matt Fiorito, Detroit, MI
2003 - Jim Wyckoff, Little Rock, AR
2002 - Dan Glus, Pittsburgh, PA
2001 - Bill Vint, East Troy, WI
2000 - Jack Graziano, New York, NY
1999 - Don Gates, Syracuse, NY
1998 - Bob Schabert, St. Paul, MN
1997 - Jim Dressel, Palatine, IL
1996 - Joe Lyou, Gardena, CA
1995 - Joe Antczak, Grand Rapids, MI
1994 - Mike Hennessy, Dayton, OH
1993 - Wayne Todd, Aurora, CO
1992 - Bob Zellner, Uniondale, NY
1991 - John Jowdy, El Cajon, CA
1990 - Pearl Keller, Chappaqua, NY
1989 - Jerry Levine, Hackensack, NJ
1988 - Don Snyder, Los Angeles, CA
1987 - Steve James, Milwaukee, WI
1986 - Augie Karcher, Winona, MN
1985 - Jim Fitzgerald, Chicago, IL
1984 - Mort Luby Jr., Chicago, IL
1983 - John Archibald, St. Louis, MO
1982 - Dick Evans, Miami, FL
1981 - Bud Fisher, Akron, OH
1980 - Ray Nelson, Milwaukee, WI


1979 - Pat McDonough, Union City, NJ
1978 - Joe Kissel, Chicago, IL
1977 - Seymour Shub, Chicago, IL
1976 - Dave DeLorenzo, River Falls, WI
1975 - Bill McDonald, New York, NY
1974 - Chuck Pezzano, Clifton, NJ
1973 - George Bell, York, PA
1972 - Charlie Smith, Clearwater, FL
1971 - Ed Reddy, Syracuse, NY
1970 - Frank Sczepanski, Flint, MI
1969 - Bruce Pluckhahn, Milwaukee, WI
1968 - Angelo Biondo, Chicago, IL
1967 - Hank Sayrs, Milwaukee, WI
1966 - Sam Levine, Cleveland, OH
1965 - Fred Wolf, Detroit, MI
1964 - Sam Weinstein, Chicago, IL
1963 - Elmer Fischer, Springfield, IL
1962 - Jerry Hagan, Kalamazoo, MI
1961 - Steve Cruchon, Detroit, MI
1960 - Fritz Howell, Columbus, OH
1959 - Bill Hengen, Minneapolis, MN
1958 - John Martino, Syracuse, NY
1957 - Tom Bolger, Toledo, OH
1956 - LeRoy Chase, Peoria, IL
1955 - Billy Sixty, Milwaukee, WI
1953 - Mort Luby Sr., Chicago, IL
1952 - Eli Whitney, Milwaukee, WI

NWBW Alberta E. Crowe

2006 - Bill Vint, East Troy, WI
2005 - Carol Mancini, Downey, CA
2004 - Linda Nelson, St. Charles, MO
2003 - Henry Fankhauser, Silver Springs, MD
2002 - Sue McCormick, Oscoda, MI
2001 - Elsie DeJonghe, Westerville, OH
2000 - Virg VanDierendonck, DeWitt, IA
1999 - Diane Squires, Battle Creek, MI
1998 - Mary Lynly, Roseville, CA
1997 - (None Given)
1996 - Marie Hisel, Arnold, MO
1995 - Wayne Todd, Denver, CO

1994 - Shirlee Kutzner, Nutley, NJ
1993 - Billy Hughes, Springfield, MO
1992 - Alice Meglemre, Long Beach, CA
1991 - Freda Botkin, Tucson, AZ
1990 - Mary Jane Sporar, Joliet, IL
1989 - Pearl Keller, Chappaqua, NY
1988 - Sam Weinstein, Chicago, IL
1987 - Kathryn Hotzel, Chesterfield, IN
1986 - Dick Evans, Miami, FL
1985 - Steve Cruchon, Harper Woods, MI
1984 - Chuck Pezzano, Clifton, NJ
1983 - Mary Jannetto, Parma Heights, OH

WBW Hall of Fame (1993 - 2013)

Male Recipients

2013 - Osku Palmeraa - Finland
2011 - Raymond Jansonn - Sweden
2010 - Mika Koivuniemi - Finald
2019 - Gery Verbruggen - Belgium
2008 - Bill Hoffman - United States
2007 - Tore Torgersen - Norway
2006 - Tito Reynolds - Mexico
2005 - None
2004 - Anders Ohman - Sweden
2003 - Kaarlo "Kalle" Asukas - Finland
2002 - None
2001 - Gosta Aldeskog - Sweden
2000 - Tomas Leandersson - Sweden
1999 - Les Zikes - United States
1998 - None
1997 - Cheng-Ming Yang - Chinese Taipei
1996 - Ying-Chieh Ma - Chinese Taipei
1994 - Philippe Dubois - France
1994 - Arna Stroem - Norway
1993 - Rafael Nepomuceno - Phillipines

Female Recipients

2013 - Kelly Kulick, United States
2011 - Shannon Pluhowsky, United States
2010 - Kirsten Penny, England
2019 - Clara Guerrero, Colombia
2008 - Ann-Maree Putney, Australia
2007 - Zara Glover, England
2006 - Lynda Barnes, United States
2005 - Diandra Asbaty, United States
2004 - Shalin Zulkifli, Malaysia
2003 - Pauline Buck, England
2002 - Eija Krogerus, Finland
2001 - Irma Urrea, Mexico
2000 - Lita dela Rosa, Philippines
1999 - Edda Piccini, Mexico
1998 - Cara Honeychurch, Australia
1997 - Martina Beckel, Germany
1996 - Asa Larsson, Sweden
1994 - Jeanette Baker, Australia
1993 - Olivia Coo, Philippines
1993 - Annette Hagre Johannesson, Sweden

Alberta E. Crowe Meritorious Service Award

This award is presented to an individual or organization that has achieved outstanding long-term accomplishments in service to the sport of bowling. It is named after the longest serving president of the WIBC, Alberta E. Crowe. The award encompasses past winners of the now defunct BWAA's John O. Martino Award and the now defunct NWBW's Jo Ettien Lieber Award. Martin was the first BWAA president in 1934 and Jo Ettien Lieber was a founding member of NWBW in 1948.

2024 Crowe Meritorious Service Award Winner

Fran Deken

Tom Clark

Clark of Muskego, Wisconsin, beat out daily web bowling articles in the 11th frame by Jeff Richgels of Madison, WI.

The long-time commissioner of the Professional Bowlers Association, Clark has been a supporter and cheerleader for the sport of bowling for more than two decades. He has not been afraid to take risks which has resulted in a better, stronger, and more solvent PBA and has provided for world-wide media coverage, which has been lacking for so long.

“It’s always nice to be recognized. I really appreciate the honor,” Clark said. “Any award with Alberta Crowe’s name on it is special. I’ve dedicated my life to getting more people interested in watching and reading about bowling in hopes they will get out and bowl themselves.”

Clark was born in Syracuse, New York, and attended Buffalo State University where he received his bachelor’s degree in journalism. He spent more than a decade in print journalism, including a stint as Sports Assignment Editor for USA Today. While filling that role, Clark said he pushed for better media coverage of bowling, feeling that the media "never treated bowling fairly.” This led to his first job in the bowling business in 2005 as Chief Communications Officer for United States Bowling Congress. In 2008, he was hired as Deputy Commissioner of the PBA, and has served as Commissioner of the PBA since 2011.

As PBA Commissioner, with a staff of 19 people and a four-person advisory board, Clark oversees the PBA membership which numbers 3,000+ worldwide. Clark also guides other agendas such as PBA sanctioned competitions, communications, sponsorships, and media coverage.

Faced with financial issues, the PBA and ESPN jointly worked on ways to cut costs. One idea was to hold multiple tournaments in one location which could have the final rounds recorded and aired later, thus saving on travel costs for players and crew. The result was the very first PBA World Series of Bowling, which Clark created in 2009.

In 2018, Clark managed the transition of the PBA's television media rights from ESPN to Fox Broadcasting. PBA Tournament broadcasts began airing on FS1 and Fox network terrestrial stations in the 2019 season. In August 2023, the PBA and Fox agreed on a two-year extension of their broadcast partnership.

IBMA Alberta Crowe Meritorious Service

 

2024 - Tom Clark
2023 - Fran Deken
2021 - BOWL4LIFE Foundation
2020 - John LaSpina
2019 - Karl Nickolai
2018 - Ken Lowman, Hollywood, CA
2017 - Robert (Bob) Thomas, Reno, NV
2016 - Bill & Barbara Chrisman, Storm Bowling INC
2015 - Gordon Vadakin, Wichita, KS
2014 - Lee Evans, Miami, FL
2013 - John Davis, Lake Wales, FL
2012 - Mort Luby, Jr., Carpentersville, IL
2011 - Bill Bunetta, Fresno, CA
2010 - John Berglund, St. Martin, French West Indies
2009 - Johnny Petraglia, Jackson, NJ
2008 - Joan Romeo, Van Nuys, CA

 

BWAA John O. Martino Award

 

2007 - Bowlers to Veterans Link
2006 - Carmen Salvino, Chicago, IL
2005 - R.R. (Woody) Woodruff, Glen Rock, NJ
2004 - ABC-TV & ESPN
2003 - Brunswick Corporation
2002 - Joyce Deitch, Las Vegas, NV
2001 - John Sommer, Rockford, IL
2000 - James Bennett Jr., Northbrook, IL
1999 - Roger Tessman, Homosassa, FL
1998 - Dick Ritger, River Falls, WI
1997 - Fred Borden, Akron, OH
1996 - Helen Duval, Berkeley, CA
1995 - Jack Reichert, Chicago, IL
1994 - Joe Antenora, Akron, OH
1993 - Earl Anthony, Cornelius, OR
1992 - Chuck Pezzano, Clifton, NJ
1991 - Sam Weinstein, Chicago, IL
1990 - Chris Schenkel, Leesburg, IN
1989 - Harry Golden, Las Vegas, NV
1988 - Bowlers Journal
1987 - Anheuser-Busch
1986 - Bruce Pluckhahn, St. Louis, MO
1985 - Dick Weber, St. Louis, MO
1984 - Albert Matzelle, St. Louis, MO
1984 - Frank Esposito, Paramus, NJ
1983- Joe Norris, San Diego, CA
1982 - Marion Ladewig, Grand Rapids, MI
1981 - Alberta Crowe, Syracuse, NY
1980 - Bill Doehrman, Fort Wayne, IN
1979 - Don Carter, Miami, FL
1978 - Frank Baker, Milwaukee, WI
1977 - Andy Varipapa, W. Hempstead, NY
1976 - Eddie Elias, Akron, OH

NWBW Jo Ettien Lieber Award 

 

2006 - Hazel McLeary, Victoria British Columbia
2005 - Helen Lesh, Roseburg. OR
2004 - Gerry Perry, Henderson, NV
2003 - Ruth Heath-Trott, Montpelier, OH
2002 - Margie Bishop, St. Louis MO
2001 - Ann Adams, Las Vegas, NV
2000 - Elaine Mulroney, Seattle, WA
1999 - Marilyn Hensley, Tucson, AZ
1998 - Sylvia Broyles, Spring Branch, TX
1997 - Trudy Todd, Aurora, CO
1996 - Nancy Chapman, Green Bay, WI
1995 - Joyce Deitch, Las Vegas, NV
1994 - Alice Meglemre, Long Beach, CA
1993 - Annis Niemier, South Bend, IN
1992 - Alpharetta Callaway, Pittsburgh, PA
1991 - Mary Lynly, Roseville, CA
1990 - Shirlee Kutzner, Nutley, NJ
1989 - Billy Hughes, Springfield, MO
1988 - Elaine Hagin, Castro Valley, CA
1987 - Lo Borschuk, Sioux City, IA
1986 - Dorothy Mauldin, Marietta, GA
1985 - Dorothy Johnson, Lebanon, MO
1984 - Pearl Keller, Chappaqua, NY
1983 - (None Given)
1982 - Kathryn Hotzel, Chesterfield, IN
1981 - Gladys Banker, Charles Town, WV
1980 - Mary Jane Sporar, Joliet, IL
1979 - Pearl Switzer, South Bend, IN
1978 - Mabel Marrs, Vancouver, WA
1977 - Freda Botkin, Tucson, AZ
1976 - Myrtle Schulte, Jennings, MO
1975 - Helen Baker, S. Miami, FL
1974 - Billy (Violet) Simon, San Antonio, TX
1973 - Winifred Berger, Sonoma, CA
1972 - Frank Baker, Milwaukee, WI
1971 - Arville L. Ebersole, Washington, DC
1970 - Clover Bayley, Watertown, NY
1969 - Lola Yoakem, Camarillo, CA
1968 - Mildred White, Rockford, IL
1967 - Helen Baetz, San Antonio, TX
1966 - Theresa Kelone, Little Rock, AR
1965 - Mary Jannetto, Parmer Heights, OH
1964 - Madelene Hochstadler, Chicago, IL
1963 - Martha Werner, Toledo, OH
1962 - Bertha McBride, St. Paul, MN
1961 - Ann Wood, Cincinnati, OH
1960 - Marian Brister, Kenosha, WI
1959 - Leone Cohen, Toledo, OH
1958 - Margaret Higley, San Jose, CA
1957 - Jo Marz, Cleveland, OH
1956 - Sylvia Wene Martin, Philadelphia, PA
1955 - Marion Ladewig, Grand Rapids, MI
1954 - Berdie Speck, St. Louis, MO
1953 - Georgia E. Veatch, Chicago, IL
1952 - Georgia E. Veatch, Chicago, IL
1951 - Alberta Crowe, Liverpool, NY
1950 - Milton Raymer, Chicago, IL
1949 - Emma Phaler, Columbus, OH
1948 - Jeanette Knepprath, Milwaukee, WI

IBMA HENNESSY AWARD OF MERIT

This award is presented to an individual who has made a major contribution of service to the IBMA for a period of 10 or more years. The award is named after Mike Hennessy, who was an outstanding past BWAA President and superb BWAA Executive Director for many years. Hennessy served as Executive Director of the Ohio BPAA and worked for the PWBA. He also produced and directed a King of the Hill television program in Dayton, Ohio.

2024 Hennessy Award of Merit Winner

Steve Lawson

Jackie Wyckoff

Wyckoff of Campbell, California, topped former Las Vegas based TenPin Alley Bowling newspaper owner Frenchy Letourneau.

She began her service to bowling writers’ organizations in May 1998 when she was elected to serve as Secretary/Treasurer during the charter meeting for the California Bowling Writers, a position she held for nearly 20 years. In 1999 she joined the National Women Bowling Writers (NWBW), and in 2003 she joined the Bowling Writers of America Association (BWAA). The groups merged in 2006 to later become the International Bowling Media Association (IBMA).

Wyckoff served as IBMA president from 2009-2011, Vice President from 2007-2008, and Operations Manager from 2015-2020. She was also Vice President of NWBW from 2004-2006 and was elected to the IBMA board of directors at the merger meeting.

She inked a deal in 2018 with Storm Bowling to sponsor the Collegiate Bowlers of the Year Awards and was the primary person in creating the IBMA Writing Competition in 2009. After several years of disappointing entries to the Pezzano Scholarship, in 2017 Wyckoff and Keith Hamilton revamped the entire process, taking the applications online, instituting a media blitz, and securing the BBIA to a four-year sponsorship commitment, resulting in a tenfold increase in entries the first year and nearly 50 times increase in the following years.

“I am honored to even be nominated for this award let alone winning,” she said. “Mike Hennessy was a great mentor for me and to win this award in his name means a lot. Also, going against French LeTourneau who has done so much for the organization, it’s a big surprise, I’m really happy, and I want to thank everybody.”

In 2004 she was a member of the BWAA/NWBW Merger Task Force, along with Nancy Chapman, Bill Vint and Steve James and created the charter bylaws for IBMA in 2006. Over the years she has served on and chaired many committees, including Nominating; Legislative; Finance and Audit; USBC Convention; International Bowl Expo Trade Shows; Website; Strategic Planning; Membership Retention and Development; Writing Competition; Bowlers of the Year; Senior Bowlers of the Year; College Ranking Polls; Collegiate Bowlers of the Year; and the Chuck Pezzano Scholarship.

Wyckoff has worked as a staff writer for 900 Magazine and Bowling Industry Magazine. Her freelance writing credits include published articles in US Bowler Magazine; Northern California Bowling World; Southern California Bowling News; the San Jose Mercury News; and assorted papers in the Bay Area News Group.

Honors include IBMA Life Member; CBW Life Member, USBC Life Member; Winner of the NWBW Newsletter Division I award for the California Bowling Writers InfoLink and the NWBW First Venture award for the Peninsula WBA Newsletter.

She has used her astute management skills to begin administrative groups and mentored newer members of those organizations to become effective committee members and chairs. 

IBMA HENNESSY AWARD OF MERIT RECIPIENTS

​2023 - Jackie Wyckoff
2023 - Dave DeLorenzo
2021 - Steve Lawson
2020 - Keith Hamilton
2019 - Chris Beard
2018 - none selected
2017 - Joan Romeo, CA & Bill Vint, IL
2016 - Fran Deken, Coweta, OK
2015 - Chuck Pezzano, Clifton, NJ
2014 - Steve James, Fox Point, WI
2013 - Mark Gerberich, Akron, OH
2012 - John LaSpina, Brooklyn, NY
2011 - Jim Goodwin, Rockwall, TX

Rip Van Winkle Award

The Rip Van Winkle Award honors those who have made major contributions to the sport of bowling and have been overlooked or under-appreciated for more than 20 years.

2024 Rip Van Winkle Award

Jack Cook

Jack Cook

Cook of Beaumont, Texas, earned the award over Chuck Lande, the pioneer of two-handed bowling style.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Cook managed the largest bowling center in the United States – The Showboat in Las Vegas – which at the time was the premier destination bowling center in the country.

He grew its business exponentially with his innovative programs which were new to the industry. He also brought in countless tournament groups with hotel/gift shop/pro shop packages. Additionally, he helped drive the Professional Bowlers Association to host up to five national tournaments there each year. These PBA events included one of the largest pro-am events ever in bowling, one which included Showboat-branded pro-am bowling balls from different manufacturers.

With Cook’s work, the Showboat became the host of the richest megabuck tournament in the country – the High Roller – which paid $200,000 for first place. He also helped put together the Super Bowl High Roller which combined the ability to win a $100,000 first prize (just half of what was offered in the summer) and enjoy the Super Bowl experience at the same time. Big screen TVs and a gluttonous amount of food and beverage were a must.

With 106 available lanes 24 hours a day, the Showboat was like no other. Major concepts and programs were a welcome testing ground due to its size, league base, and Cook’s eagerness to promote and expand the sport. Add in the countless local tournament organizations from around the country that would have their national events at the Showboat once each year; Cook was behind it all.

After 13 years at The Showboat, he moved to Reno to become vice president of stadium operations at the National Bowling Stadium. His tenure there was cut short due to health issues, but his impact on the facility endured. If you were a competitive bowler at any time from 1985-2000, it would be unlikely that you weren’t directly impacted by Cook’s tenuous work and promotion within the sport of bowling.

“It’s really something. I can’t believe it,” Cook said when learning he received the honor. “It’s amazing. I’m real pleased with that. It will hold a special place in my heart.

 

 

2023 IBMA WRITING COMPETITION AWARDS

 

DIVISION 1:

 

FEATURE:

 

Winner: Gianmarc Manzione, Bowlers Journal, April  - A Grave to Garden Transformation

Runner-up: Bob Johnson, Bowling Center Management, April - Making History Again

Honorable Mention: Nolan Hughes, PBA.com, April 3 - Anthony Simonsen Rewrites History at Masters

 

EDITORIAL:

 

Winner: Jef Goodger, Bowlers Journal, July - It's Time to Stop Numbering 300s

Runner-up: Bob Johnson, Bowling Center Management, March - The Traits of the Best Bowls and Hospitals

Honorable Mention: Bob Johnson, Bowling Center Management September - What's in a Name? To Guests it's Everything, ,

 

NEWS:

 

Winner: From the Ashes of 9-11, Bob Johnson, Bowling Center Management, November

Runner-up: Kyle Troup Wins 10th PBA Title, Nolan Hughes, PBA.com, June 25

Honorable Mention: 2023 U.S. Women's Open, Jill Winters, Bowlers Journal, August

 

BUSINESS:

 

Winner: Bob Johnson, Bowling Center Management, November - The Passing of an Industry Icon,

Runner-up: Bob Johnson, Bowling Center Management, June - From Welfare Child to Proprietor of the Year,

Honorable Mention: Johnny Campos, Bowling Center Management, January A Peek Inside the New San Antonio Pinstack,

 

DIVISION 2

 

FEATURE:

 

Winner: Barry Sparks, York (Pennsylvania) Dispatch, May 16 - Striking Stars Offer Unique Opportunity,

Runner-up: Johnny Campos, Facebook, July 25 - Leiendecker Family Gets an Unexpected Outcome,

Honorable Mention: Johnny Campos, Facebook, July 24 - Big Effort on Lanes Keeps Mel Sim Jr. Keeps Family on Road,

 

EDITORIAL:

 

Winner: Josh Hyde, Josh Hyde’s Bowling Newsletter, October - Bowlologist View of the Greatest PBA,

Runner-up: Josh Hyde, Josh Hyde’s Bowling Newsletter, January - Why Bowlers Fall Short of the Mark,

 

NEWS:

 

Winner: Josh Hyde, Josh Hyde’s Bowling Newsletter, March - 2023 Tournament of Champions,

Runner-up: Barry Sparks, York (Pennsylvania) Dispatch, Aug. 8 - New Jersey Bowler Wins PBA Title at Colony Park

Honorable Mention: Johnny Campos, Spare Change Blog/Masters.com, March 13 - Winning Team of Kevin Tockes and Timmy Blanch,

 

BUSINESS:

 

Winner: Johnny Campos, SpareChange Blog/Masters.com, Sept. 13 - Vince Pollard Making a Difference,

Bowler of the Year

The purpose of this award is to honor a male and female bowler for outstanding accomplishments during a calendar year. Professional and amateur bowlers are eligible to receive this award.

2023 Bowlers of the Year Winners

Jason Belmonte

EJ TACKETT

Shannon O'Keefe

JORDAN RICHARD

E.J. Tackett captured five Professional Bowlers Association titles in 2023 including the U.S. Open and PBA World Championship. He also led the PBA in points with 41,200 and earnings ($458,450) and was the leader in average at 227.12. He beat out Anthony Simonsen and Jason Belmonte in the voting.  “It’s really cool. It’s one of those things where it’s not just what you do on the PBA Tour,” Tackett said of the IBMA honor. “It’s one of those awards that holds a lot of weight because everyone is included and not just the guys out here.”

Jordan Richard won three titles, led the Professional Women’s Bowling Association in points with 110,162.50 and average at 219.69 for the season. She topped Lindsay Boomershine and Diana Zavjalova in the voting.

IBMA Male Bowlers of the Year


2023 - EJ Tackett
2022 - Jason Belmonte
2021 - Kyle Troup
2020 - NO AWARD - COVID
2019 - Jason Belmonte
2018 - Andrew Anderson
2017 - Jason Belmonte, Orange, NWS, Australia
2016 - E.J. Tackett, Huntington, IN
2015 - Jason Belmonte, Orange, NWS, Australia
2014 - Jason Belmonte, Orange, NWS, Australia
2013 - Jason Belmonte, Orange, NWS, Australia
2012 - Michael Fagan, Dallas, TX
2011 - Mika Koiuvniemi, Hartland, MI
2010 - Bill O'Neill, Southampton, PA
2009 - Norm Duke, Clermont, FL
2008 - Norm Duke, Clermont, FL
2007 - Patrick Allen, Wesley Chapel, FL
2006 - Tommy Jones, Simpsonville, SC
2005 - Patrick Allen, Tarrytown, NY
2004 - W.R. Williams Jr., Ocala, FL
2003 - W.R. Williams Jr., Ocala, FL
2002 - W.R. Williams Jr., Ocala, FL
2001 - Parker Bohn III, Jackson, NJ
2000 - Norm Duke, Clermont, FL
1999 - Parker Bohn III, Jackson, NJ
1998 - W.R. Williams Jr., Stockton, CA
1997 - W.R. Williams Jr., Stockton, CA
1996 - W.R. Williams Jr., Stockton, CA
1995 - Mike Aulby, Indianapolis, IN
1994 - Norm Duke, Edmond, OK
1993 - W.R. Williams Jr., Stockton, CA
1992 - Marc McDowell, Madison, WI
1991 - David Ozio, Vidor, TX
1990 - Amleto Monacelli, Venezuela
1989 - Mike Aulby, Indianapolis, IN
1988 - Brian Voss, Tacoma, WA
1987 - Marshall Holman, Medford, OR
1985 - Mike Aulby, Indianapolis, IN
1986 - W.R. Williams Jr., Stockton, CA
1984 - Mark Roth, Spring Lake Hts., NJ
1983 - Earl Anthony, Dublin, CA
1982 - Earl Anthony, Dublin, CA
1981 - Earl Anthony, Dublin, CA
1980 - Wayne Webb, Reheboth, MA
1979 - Mark Roth, N. Arlington, NJ
1978 - Mark Roth, N. Arlington, NJ
1977 - Mark Roth, N. Arlington, NJ
1976 - Earl Anthony, Dublin, CA
1975 - Earl Anthony, Dublin, CA
1974 - Earl Anthony, Dublin, CA
1973 - Don McCune, Munster, IN
1972 - Don Johnson, Akron, OH
1971 - Don Johnson, Akron, OH
1970 - Nelson Burton Jr., St. Louis, MO
1969 - Billy Hardwick, Louisville, KY
1968 - Jim Stefanich, Joliet, IL
1967 - Dave Davis, Phoenix, AZ
1966 - Wayne Zahn, Atlanta, GA
1965 - Dick Weber, St. Louis, MO
1964 - Billy Hardwick, San Mateo, CA
1963 - Dick Weber, St. Louis, MO
1962 - Don Carter, St. Louis, MO
1961 - Dick Weber, St. Louis, MO
1960 - Don Carter, St. Louis, MO
1959 - Ed Lubanski, Detroit, MI
1958 - Don Carter, St. Louis, MO
1957 - Don Carter, St. Louis, MO
1956 - Bill Lillard, Chicago, IL
1955 - Steve Nagy, Detroit, MI
1954 - Don Carter, St. Louis, MO
1953 - Don Carter, St. Louis, MO
1952 - Steve Nagy, Cleveland, OH
1951 - Lee Jouglard, Detroit, MI
1950 - Junie McMahon, Fair Lawn, NJ
1949 - Connie Schwoegler, Madison, WI
1948 - Andy Varipapa, Brooklyn, NY
1947 - Buddy Bomar, Chicago, IL
1946 - Joe Wilman, Chicago, IL
1945 - Buddy Bomar, Chicago, IL
1944 - Ned Day, Milwaukee, WI
1943 - Ned Day, Milwaukee, WI
1942 - Johnny Crimmins, Detroit, MI

IBMA Female Bowlers of the Year

 


2023 - Jordan Richard
2022 - Shannon O'Keefe
2021 - Julia Bond
2020 - NO AWARD - COVID
2019 - Shannon O'Keefe
2018 - Shannon O'Keefe
2017 - Liz Johnson, Cheektowaga, NY
2016 - Liz Johnson, Cheektowaga, NY
2015 - Liz Johnson, Cheektowaga, NY
2014 - Kelly Kulick, Union, NJ
2013 - Liz Johnson, Cheektowaga, NY
2012 - Diandra Asbaty, Chicago, IL
2011 - Shannon Pluhowsky, Kettering, OH
2010 - Kelly Kulick, Union, NJ
2009 - Liz Johnson, Cheektowaga, NY
2008 - Lynda Barnes, Double Oak, TX
2007 - Liz Johnson, Cheektowaga, NY
2006 - Kelly Kulick, Union, NJ
2005 - Liz Johnson, Niagara Falls, NY
2004 - Shannon Pluhowsky, Phoenix, AZ
2003 - Carolyn Dorin-Ballard, Dallas, TX
2002 - Leanne Barrette, Pleasanton, CA
2001 - Carolyn Dorin-Ballard, Dallas, TX
2000 - Wendy Macpherson, Henderson, NV
1999 - Wendy Macpherson, Henderson, NV
1998 - Carol Gianotti-Block, Australia
1997 - Wendy Macpherson, Henderson, NV
1996 - Wendy Macpherson, Henderson, NV
1995 - Tish Johnson, Northridge, CA
1994 - Anne Marie Duggan, Edmond, OK
1993 - Lisa Wagner, Palmetto, FL
1992 - Tish Johnson, Panorama City, CA
1991 - Leanne Barrette, Yukon, OK
1990 - Tish Johnson, Panorama City, CA
1989- Robin Romeo, Newhall, CA
1988 - Lisa Wagner, Palmetto, FL
1987 - Betty Morris, Stockton, CA
1986 - Lisa Wagner, Palmetto, FL
1985 - Aleta Sill, Dearborn, MI
1984 - Aleta Sill, Dearborn, MI
1983 - Lisa Wagner, Palmetto, FL
1982 - Nikki Gianulias, Vallejo, CA
1981 - Donna Adamek, Apple Valley, CA
1980 - Donna Adamek, Apple Valley, CA
1979 - Donna Adamek, Apple Valley, CA
1978 - Donna Adamek, Apple Valley, CA
1976- Patty Costello, Scranton, PA
1975 - Judy Soutar, Leawood, KS
1974 - Betty Morris, Stockton, CA
1973 - Judy Soutar, Leawood, KS
1972 - Patty Costello, Scranton, PA
1971 - Paula Carter, Miami, FL
1970 - Mary Baker Harris, Cent. Islip, NY
1969 - Dorothy Fothergill, Ossippee, NH
1968 - Dorothy Fothergill, Ossippee, NH
1967 - Mildred Ignizio, Rochester, NY
1966 - Joy Abel, Lansing, IL
1965 - Betty Kuczynski, Chicago, IL
1964 - LaVerne Carter, Las Vegas, NV
1963 - Marion Ladewig, Grand Rapids, MI
1962 - Shirley Garms, Island Lake, IL
1961 - Shirley Garms, Island Lake, IL
1960 - Sylvia Martin, Philadelphia, PA
1959 - Marion Ladewig, Grand Rapids, MI
1958 - Marion Ladewig, Grand Rapids, MI
1957 - Marion Ladewig, Grand Rapids, MI
1956 - Anita Cantaline, Detroit, MI
1955 - Sylvia Martin, Philadelphia, PA
1954 - Marion Ladewig, Grand Rapids, MI
1953 - Marion Ladewig, Grand Rapids, MI
1952 - Marion Ladewig, Grand Rapids, MI
1951 - Marion Ladewig, Grand Rapids, MI
1950 - Marion Ladewig, Grand Rapids, MI
1949 - Val Mikiel, Detroit, MI
1948 - Val Mikiel, Detroit, MI

Senior Bowler of the Year

The purpose of this award is to honor a male and female bowler, 50 years or older, for outstanding accomplishments during a calendar year. Professional and amateur bowlers are eligible to receive this award.

2019 Senior Bowler of the Year

 

Norm Duke

NORM DUKE

Jeannie Naccarato

JEANNIE NACCARATO

 

Norm Duke & Jeannie Naccarato

Norm Duke earned this year's IBMA Senior Male Bowler of the Year with stats coming in from both the PBA and PBA50 Tours. Duke won the Go Bowling! PBA Indianapolis Open and Go Bowling! PBA Jonesboro Open, and was in the top five in three other events on the regular PBA Tour. On the PBA50 Tour, Duke finished in the top seven in all six tournaments he entered, with a high finish of third in three events. Between both tours, Duke pocketed a cool $126,415 and was the front runner for this award. He easily outdistanced runner-up Walter Ray Williams Jr., who won the first three PBA50 titles in 2019.

Jeannie Naccarato won the title over fellow bowlers Debbie Ayers and Linda Walbaum for the 2019 Senior Female Bowler of the Year. Naccarato’s impressive championship performance in the 2019 USBC Queens and a runner-up finish in the Golden Ladies Classic made her the clear chioce on the ballot. She was also the leading money winner among the women’s senior finalists, earning $9,302 in 2019.

 

IBMA Male Bowlers of the Year

 

2019 - Norm Duke
2018 - Michael Haugen Jr
2017 - Norm Duke
2016 - Pete Weber, St Ann, MO
2015 - Parker Bohn III, Jackson, NJ
2014 - Pete Weber, St. Ann, MO
2013 - Pete Weber, St. Ann, MO
2012 - Walter Ray Williams, Jr., Ocala, FL
2011 - Ron Mohr, Eagle River, AK
2010 - Wayne Webb, Columbus, OH
2009 - Ron Mohr, Eagle River, AK
2008 - Wayne Webb, Sacramento, CA
2007 - Tom Baker, King, NC
2006 - Tom Baker, King, NC
2005 - Tom Baker, King, NC
2004 - Bob Glass, Lawrence, KS
2003 - Bob Glass, Lawrence, KS
2002 - Bob Glass, Lawrence, KS
2001 - Bob Glass, Lawrence, KS
2000 - Bob Glass, Lawrence Park, KS
1999 - Dale Eagle, Lewisville, TX
1998 - Pete Couture, Titusville, FL
1997 - Gary Dickinson, Edmond, OK
1996 - Earl Anthony, Cornelius, WA
1995 - Tommy Evans, Bonaventure, FL
1994 - John Handegard, Las Vegas, NV
1993 - Gary Dickinson, Edmond, OK
1992 - Gene Stus, Allen Park, MI

IBMA Female Bowlers of the Year

 

2019 - Jeannie Naccarato
2018 - Tish Johnson
2017 - Lucy Sandelin, Tampa, FL
2016 - Robin Romeo, Newhall, CA
2015 - Robin Romeo, Newhall, CA
2014 - Tish Johnson
2013 - Lucy Sandelin, Tampa, FL
2012 - Robin Romeo, Newhall, CA
2011 - Paula Vidad, Sun City, CA
2010 - Dana Miller-Mackie, Albuquerque, NM
2009 - Robin Romeo, Newhall, CA
2008 - Lucy Sandelin, Tampa, FL
2007 - (none selected)
2006 - (none selected)
2005 - (none selected)
2004 - Shirley Levens, Titusville, FL
2003 - Shirley Levens, Cocoa, FL
2002 - Shirley Levens, Cocoa, FL
2001 - Fran Deken, Reno, NV
2000 - Linda Kelly, Dayton, OH

IBMA (BWAA) Collegiate Bowler of the Year Award
Presented by Storm Bowling

The IBMA Collegiate Bowler of the Year Award, presented by Storm Bowling, was established in 1987 to recognize and honor a male and female bowler for their outstanding accomplishments in collegiate competition. The award is presented each year during the Intercollegiate Team Championships in April.

 

2024 Male & Female Winners

 

Spencer Robarge
Wichita State University

Jacquiline Witura
Webber International University

Male Collegiate Bowlers of the Year


2024 - Spencer Robarge, Wichita State University
2023 - Spencer Robarge, Wichita State University
2022 - Alec Keplinger, Wichita State University
2021 - Jeffery Mann, Marian University (IN)
2020 - Tommy Hanke Jr, Webber International Univ.
2019 - Matthew Russo, Webber International University
2018 - Scott Hill, Lindewood University
2017 - Nick Pate, Midland University
2016 - Michael Coffey, Lindenwood University
2015 - Michael Tang, San Jose State University
2014 - AJ Johnson, McKendree University
2013 - AJ Johnson, McKendree University
2012 - Marshall Kent, Robert Morris University (IL)
2011 - T.J. Schmidt, Purdue University
2010 - Josh Blanchard, Wichita State University
2009 - Dan MacLelland, Saginaw Valley State Univ.
2008 - Dan MacLelland, Saginaw Valley State Univ.
2007 - P.J. Haggerty, Fresno State University
2006 - P.J. Haggerty, Fresno State University
2005 - P.J. Haggerty, Fresno State University
2004 - Bill O'Neill, Saginaw Valley State University
2003 - Bill O'Neill, Saginaw Valley State University
2002 - Derek Sapp, Western Illinois University
2001 - Bill O'Neill, Saginaw Valley State University
2000 - Jeff Piroozshad, University of Miami
1999 - Mike Eaton Jr., Wichita State University
1998 - Louis Franzetti, William Paterson University
1997 - Joe Ciccone, Arizona State University
1996 - Bryan Manno, Indiana University
1995 - Steve Kloempken, Wichita State University
1994 - Joe Ciccone, Erie Community College
1993 - Bill Hoffman, Ohio State University
1992 - Chris Barnes, Wichita State University
1991 - Sanford Carvajal, San Diego State University
1990 - David Carter, William Paterson University
1989 - Chris Sole, William Paterson University
1988 - Chris Viale, William Paterson University
1987 - Rick Steelsmith, Wichita State University

Female Collegiate Bowlers of the Year


2024 - Jacquiline Witura, Webber International
2023 - Megan Kolberg, Mount Mercy
2022 - Maryssa Carey, Indiana Tech
2021 - Madison Janack, Wichita State University
2020 - Caitlyn Johnson, Webber International Univ.
2019 - Lauren Piotrowski, University of Pikeville
2018 - Caitlyn Johnson, Webber International Univ.
2017 - Sidney Brummett, Wichita State University
2016 - Brittany Smith, Grand View University
2015 - Daria Kovalova, Wichita State University
2014 - Daria Kovalova, Wichita State University
2013 - Daria Kovalova, Wichita State University
2012 - Jazreel Tan, Wichita State University
2011 - Jazreel Tan, Wichita State University
2010 - Jenn Boisselle, University of Central Florida
2009 - Sandra Gongora, Wichita State University
2008 - Kayla Bandy, Pikeville College
2007 - Kayla Bandy, Pikeville College
2006 - Stefanie Nation, University of Central Florida
2005 - Anita Manns, Wichita State University
2004 - Elysia Current, Fairleigh Dickinson University
2003 - Melissa Belinder, Cal State - Fullerton
2002 - Amber Gazverde, Central Missouri State
2001 - Shannon Pluhowsky, University of Nebraska
2000 - Jessica DeCrescente, Morehead State Univ.
1999 - Cathy Krasner, Cal State - Fresno
1998 - Kelly Kulick, Morehead State University
1997 - Kelly Kulick, Morehead State University
1996 - Keli Rapp, Erie Community College
1995 - Rosine Marschke, Wichita State University
1994 - Stacy Werth, Cal State - Sacramento
1993 - Liz Johnson, Morehead State University
1992 - Kari Murph, Morehead State University
1991 - Kari Murph, Morehead State University
1990 - Linda Norry, San Jose State University
1989 - Linda Norry, San Jose State University
1988 - Jackie Sellers, Penn State University
1987 - Jackie Sellers, Penn State University

Rip Van Winkle Award

Rip Van Winkle Award Winner List


(Award discontinued in 2007-2020)


2024 - Jack Cook, Beaumont, TX
2023 - Carmen Salvino, Schaumberg, IL
2021 - Nelson Burton Jr, St. Louis, MO
2007 - Reg Pearson, Virginia City, NV
2006 - Albert Matzelle, Bayside, WI
2005 - Connie Marchione, Panorama City, CA
2004 - Dick Ritger, River Falls, WI
2003 - Glenn Allison, Los Angeles, CA
2002 - Gordon Vadakin, Wichita, KS
2001 - Sam Baca, Stockton, CA
2000 - Jack Biondolillo, Houston, TX
1999 - Walt Steinsiek, Mico, FL
1998 - Don McCune, Munster, IN
1997 - Tom Kouros, Palatine, IL
1996 - Chief Halftown, Philadelphia, PA
1995 - Jeannette Robinson, Las Vegas, NV
1994 - Bill Taylor, San Gabriel, CA
1993 - Angelo Biondo, Chicago, IL
1992 - Wayne Todd, Aurora, CO
1991 - Pepper Martin, San Antonio, TX
1990 - Seymour (Sandy) Shub, Chicago, IL
1989 - George Amato, Eugene, OR
1988 - Don Snyder, Los Angeles, CA
1987 - Bill Franklin, Marina Del Rey, CA
1986 - Woody Woodruff, Westbury, NY
1985 - Greg Griffo, Syracuse, NY
1984 - George Billick, Old Forge, PA
1983 - John Gavie, Detroit, MI
1982 - Eddie Edgar, Detroit, MI
1981 - Gus Lombardi, New York, NY
1980 - Joe Wilson, Chicago, IL
1979 - Chuck Pezzano, Clifton, NJ
1978 - Arthur Enberg, Minneapolis, MN
1977 - Charles Mitchell, Akron, OH
1976 - Dick Watson, Los Angeles, CA
1975 - Paul Marian, Chicago, IL
1974 - Cecil Ward, Detroit, MI
1970 - Paul Cito, Detroit, MI
1969 - Elmer Irwin, San Francisco, CA
1968 - Jerome Harris, St. Louis, MO
            Eli Maricich, Matteson, IL
1967 - J.B. Coker, San Diego, CA
           Arthur Johnson, Milwaukee, WI
           Bill McDonald, New York, NY
1966 - Peter Revelt, Detroit, MI
           Ben Sands, Cleveland, OH
1965 - Lester Boston, Tulsa, OK
           John Canelli, Toledo, OH
           Ossie (Rags) Ragogna, St. Paul, MN
1964 - Warren Sloan, Blackwood, NJ
           Dennis Sweeney, St. Louis, MO
          Sam Weinstein, Chicago, IL
1963 - Wilfred Albert, St. Petersburg, FL
           Fred Lipovetz, LaCrosse, WI
           George Obenauer, Buffalo, NY
           Milton Raymer, Chicago, IL
           William Landgraf, Island Park, NY
1962 - Walt Ditzen, Phoenix, AZ
           John O. Martino, Syracuse, NY
          Jim Tinney, Chicago, IL
           Harold Lloyd, Los Angeles, CA
1960 - Joe Fliger, Chicago, IL
            Frank (Bud) Wight, Chicago, IL
           Emory Krauthoefer, Milwaukee, WI
           William Mattison, Toledo, OH
1959 - Allie Brandt, Lockport, NY
          Joe McCord, Santa Monica, CA
          Rudy Matak, St. Paul, MN
          Walter (Skag) Mercurio, Cleveland, OH
1958 - Frank Caruana, Buffalo, NY
           Frank Snyder, Erie, PA
           Harry Steers, Chicago, IL
           Fred Thoma, Peoria, IL
1957 - Cone Hermann, St. Louis, MO
           Frank Benkovic, Milwaukee, WI
1956 - Clarence Brayshaw, Omaha, NE
           Larry Sutton, Rochester, NY
           Frank Bruggeman, Burlington, IA

2012 Male & Female Winners

(Award Discontinued in 2012)

Amateur Bowlers of the Year

A special IBMA committee has selected the nation's best non-professional Male and Female Bowlers of the Year since 1991.

IBMA Male Amateur Bowlers of the Year


2011 - Matt Weggen, Muscatine, IA
2010 - Brian Ziesig, Levittown, NY
2009 - John Janawicz, Winter Haven, FL
2008 - Derek Eoff, Arlington, TX
2007 - Rhino Page, Topeka, KS
2006 - Bill Hoffman, Columbus, OH
2005 - Andrew Cain, Chandler, AZ
2004 - John Janawicz, Winter Haven, FL
2003 - Bill Hoffman, Columbus, OH
2002 - Bill Hoffman, Columbus, OH
2001 - Andrew Cain, Phoenix, AZ
2000 - Bill Hoffman, Columbus, OH
1999 - Bill Hoffman, Columbus, OH
1998 - John Gaines, Davidsonville, MD
1997 - Chris Barnes, Wichita, KS
1996 - Don Scudder, Cincinnati, OH
1995 - Patrick Healey Jr., Niagara Falls, NY
1994 - Patrick Healey Jr., Niagara Falls, NY
1993 - Vince Biondo III, Hoffman Estates, IL
1992 - Vince Biondo III, Hoffman Estates, IL
1991 - Patrick Healey Jr., Niagara Falls, NY

IBMA Female Amateur Bowlers of the Year

2011 - Jazreel Tan, Wichita, KS
2010 - Brittni Hamilton, Webster, NY
2009 - Brenda Edwards, Mansfield, TX
2008 - Lynda Barnes, Double Oak, TX
2007 - Diandra Asbaty, Dyer, IN
2006 - Diandra Asbaty, Chicago, IL
2005 - Lynda Barnes, Flower Mound, TX
2004 - Shannon Pluhowsky, Phoenix, AZ
2003 - Diandra (Hyman) Asbaty, Dyer, IN
2002 - Shannon Pluhowsky, Phoenix, AZ
2001 - Shannon Pluhowsky, Phoenix, AZ
2000 - Kelly Kulick, Union, NJ
1999 - Kelly Kulick, Union, NJ
1998 - Lynda Norry-Barnes, Wichita, KS
1997 - Kendra Cameron, Baltimore, MD
1996 - Kendra Cameron, Baltimore, MD
1995 - Liz Johnson, Niagara Falls, NY
1994 - Lucy Giovinco-Sandelin, Atlanta, GA
1993 - Liz Johnson, Niagara Falls, NY
1992 - Tammy Turner, W. Palm Beach, FL
1991 - Lynda Norry, Huntington Beach, CA

Sam Levine Flowers for the Living Award

Although not an official IBMA award, the Flowers for the Living Award is one of the sport's most coveted forms of recognition. The award was created in 1961 by Cleveland Kegler publisher Sam Levine and a small group of newspapermen. It was inspired by a poem written by one of the founders, Ohio Associated Press editor Fritz Howell. His poem, “Flowers for the Living” suggests that deserving people be honored “while they are still alive to smell the flowers.” The award remains in the custody of a "secretive panel" which prides itself on making surprise presentations to unsuspecting recipients; and no recipient has been more surprised than Howell was when he received the first bouquet.

Flowers for the Living by Fritz Howell

It seems that when a fellow dies, no matter what he’s been, A saintly chap or one whose life was darkly steeped in sin - That folks forget the bitter words they spoke but yesterday And seem to find a multitude of pretty things to say.

And maybe when I go to rest, someone will bring to light Some kindly word or goodly act, long buried out of sight, But if it’s all the same to you, just give to me instead, The bouquets while I’m living, and the knocking when I’m dead.

Don’t save your kisses to imprint upon my noble brow, While countless maledictions are hurled upon me now. Just say a kindly word to me, as I mourn here alone, And don’t save all your eulogy to carve upon a stone.

What do I care if, when I’m gone, the whole newspaper world Gives me a glowing writeup and the nation’s flags are furled? Why, it won’t flatter me a bit, no matter what is said, So kindly throw your flowers now, and knock me when I’m dead.

It may be fine, when one is gone, to have folks talk so, And have the flowers come in loads from all the guys you know. It must be nice to have these things for those you leave behind But, so far as I’m concerned, I really will not mind.

I’m quite alive and well today, and while I linger here, Give me a helping hand at times, give me a word of cheer. Let’s change the game a bit, just sorta swab the decks, For I will be no judge of flowers, when I cash in my checks.

 

Flowers for the Living Recipients


2023 - Gordon Vadakin, Wichita, KS
2022 - Award Not Presented
2021 - Award Not Presented
2020 - Award Not Presented
2019 - Mike Aulby, Indianapolis
2018 - Jamie Brooks, Plano, Texas
2017 - Pat Ciniello, Bonita Springs, Fla.
2016 - Award not presented
2015 - Award not presented
2014 - Johnny Petraglia, Manalapan, NJ
2013 - John Sommer, Rockford, IL
2012 - Bill Lillard, Houston, TX
2011 - Jim Dressel, Chicago, IL
2010 - Paula Carter, Miami, FL
2009 - Elaine Hagin, Castro Valley, CA
2008 - Carmen Salvino, Shaumburg, IL
2007 - Lenny Nicholson, Tucson, AZ
2006 - Walt Steinsiek, Micco, FL
2005 - Pearl Keller, Chappaqua, NY
2004 - Jeanette Robinson, Las Vegas, NV
2003 - Dick Stoeffler, Las Vegas, NV
2002 - Glenn Allison, Whittier, CA
2001 - Tom Kouros, Libertyville, IL
2000 - Wayne Todd, Denver, CO
1999 - Chris Schenkel, Leesburg, IN
1998 - Jack Reichert, Lake Forest, IL
1996 - Bob Zellner, Stony Brook, NY
           Angelo Biondo, Chicago, IL
1995 - Augie Karcher, Winona, MN
1993 - Millie Ignizio, Rochester, NY
1992 - Earl Anthony, Cornelius, OR
1991 - Jim Bennett Jr., Muskegon, MI
1990 - Helen Duval, Berkeley, CA
1989 - Pat McDonough
1988 - Helen Baker, Cocoa Beach, FL
1987 - Joe Lyou, Los Angeles, CA
1986 - Don Carter, Miami, FL
1985 - John Jowdy, San Antonio, TX
1982 -1984 - Award was not given due to the death of the originator, Sam Levine
1981 - Byron Schoeman, Satellite Beach, FL
1980 - Bill Doehrman, Ft. Wayne, IN
1979 - Dick Weber, St. Louis, MO
1978 - Lee Evans, Miami, FL
           Emma Phaler, Miami, FL
1977 - Eddie Elias, Akron, OH
1976 - Chuck Pezzano, Clifton, NJ
1975 - Fred Wolf, Detroit, MI
1974 - Mort Luby Jr., Chicago, IL
1973 - Bill Hengen, Minneapolis, MN
           Alberta E. Crowe, Liverpool, NY
1972 - Sam Levine, Cleveland, OH
1971 - Frank Baker, Milwaukee, WI
           Hank Marino, Milwaukee, WI
1969 - Frank Sczepanski, Flint, MI
1968 - Bruce Pluckhahn, Milwaukee, WI
1967 - Tom Bolger, Toledo, OH
           Steve Cruchon, Detroit, MI
1966 - Billy Sixty, Milwaukee, WI
1965 - Marion Ladewig, Grand Rapids, MI
1964 - Joe Norris, Chicago, IL
1963 - Sam Weinstein, Chicago, IL
           John O. Martino, Syracuse, NY
1962 - Joe Smolen, Milwaukee, WI
1961 - Fritz Howell, Columbus, OH

 

IBMA Bowler of the Decade

The purpose of this award is to honor a male and female bowler for outstanding accomplishments during a decade. (To be decided in 2019)

2000 - 2009 Winners

 

Walter Ray Williams Jr

Walter Ray Williams Jr.

Kelly Kulick

Kelly Kulick

 

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