As the league season is now nicely under way, several tournament options will be available for all skill levels and average classifications.  What we want to examine this month is how to prepare yourself to bowl in a tournament setting and the most common mistakes made by those bowling in their first tournament.

1. Most importantly, there are several key differences between a league setting and a tournament.  The format most likely will not be a four or five man team it may be doubles or singles for example.  The pace of bowling in a baker’s format or a singles event is quite different compared to a league night, as the time between shots is much shorter.  This causes many problems for those who are less experienced for a number of reasons but the two major items are; not being prepared to make another shot in a couple of minutes compared to five minutes or more and not being able to clear one’s mind of a bad shot quickly. 
   
   
2. When bowling a faster pace, it is important to have practiced before hand taking shots every couple of minutes.  This prepares your body for the physical challenge of bowling a few games in just a couple of hours.  More importantly, it is crucial that after making a shot with less than ideal results you are able to clear your mind and dedicate yourself to a better execution on the next delivery and do it quickly.  You cannot always control every aspect of life, let alone bowling but what you can control EVERY time is how you react to these things. 
   
   
3. Typically under tournament conditions the lanes are slightly more demanding than league patterns.  This is a great way to gain experience and become a better player.  When there is less margin of error bowlers are forced into learning more repeatable habits such as a consistent push away, a lose arm swing and a clean release.  The key to better bowling, including under tournament conditions is to remain calm, focused and relaxed.  Concentrate on the one aspect of your delivery that the rest depends upon, for example finishing your approach balanced at the foul line. 
   
   
4. The problem most bowlers encounter when they enter their first tournaments is they approach it the same way as their league night.  When bowlers become too accustomed to a certain league situation they are less willing to make the aggressive adjustments needed to succeed in a tournament.  While it is vital to remain relaxed, it is also important to pay attention to each shot and the results will tell you what your next adjustment should be and most of all don’t be afraid to make adjustments!  Bowling and more importantly succeeding in tournaments is almost definitely going to require you to go outside your “comfort zone”.  Give these tips a try and you’ll soon find yourself climbing up the tournament prize list!

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