United States Bowling Congress Inc

The United States Bowling Congress Inc. (USBC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and governing ten-pin bowling in the United States. It serves as the national governing body for the sport, recognized by the United States Olympic Committee (USOC).

History

Established on January 1, 2005, the USBC was formed by the merger of the American Bowling Congress (ABC), Women's International Bowling Congress (WIBC), Young American Bowling Alliance (YABA), and USA Bowling. This consolidation unified the governance of bowling under one entity, fostering a stronger, more cohesive community for bowlers across the country.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the USBC is to provide services, resources, and standards for the sport. Its vision is to continue being the leading authority in bowling, addressing the needs of the bowling community. The USBC is committed to celebrating the past, acknowledging the present, and ensuring a prosperous future for bowling through meticulous research, planning, and implementation.

Programs and Initiatives

The USBC offers a wide range of programs designed to support bowlers of all ages and skill levels. Key initiatives include:

• USBC Youth: Focused on engaging younger generations through tournaments, scholarships, and leadership opportunities.
• USBC High School and Collegiate Bowling: Promoting bowling as a competitive sport at both high school and collegiate levels.
• USBC Coaching: Providing coaching and training resources for both youth and adult bowlers.
• Team USA and Junior Team USA: Representing the United States in international bowling competitions.
• SMART (Scholarship Management & Accounting Report for Tenpins): Facilitating youth bowling scholarships.
• Equipment Specifications and Certification: Conducting research and testing to certify bowling equipment, ensuring uniformity and fairness across competitions.

Governance and Finance

The USBC operates as a membership organization with a substantial financial framework. It generates revenue from contributions, program services, investment income, and sales of assets. As a nonprofit, donations to the USBC are tax-deductible.

Membership and Reach

The USBC serves approximately 1 million members across the United States, with a network of over 3,000 local associations. Its influence extends beyond individual bowlers, supporting bowling centers and promoting the sport nationwide.

Awards and Recognition

The USBC manages a hall of fame honoring significant figures in bowling history. Awards include recognition for superior performance, meritorious service, veteran contributions, pioneering achievements, and outstanding USBC performance.

Headquarters

Initially based in Greendale, Wisconsin, the USBC headquarters moved to Arlington, Texas in 2008. This relocation aligned with efforts to combine operations with the Bowling Proprietors' Association of America (BPAA).

Nonprofit Status

The USBC is classified under the Internal Revenue Code as an organization fostering national or international amateur sports competition, which qualifies it as a tax-exempt entity under Section 501(c)(3).