From Slump to Strength: A Bowling Baddie’s Comeback

Hey Bowling Baddies 💕

I hope everyone had a fabulous weekend! I wanted to take a moment to open up and share something personal I’ve been going through lately with my bowling.

After the PWBA Topeka Open, I made a promise to myself: to be more intentional with every single shot. I wanted to firm up my release, execute each throw with purpose, and truly lock in. So for the past 3 weeks, that’s exactly what I’ve been doing—and it’s been game-changing.

Let me take you back a bit. About 6 months ago, I told my pro shop ball driller that I drop the ball a lot—like at least once (sometimes more) per game. That’s not exactly a stat I’m proud of. He suggested a few adjustments, and next league night, he brought me a new ball and mentioned he had already changed the pitch in the thumb hole to help with my release issues.

Now, I had mentioned it to him, but I never actually agreed to make that change. At that time, I was mentally in a really tough spot. Bowling wasn’t going well, I wasn’t seeing progress, and to be honest—I was just not enjoying the game that had been my identity for so long. I appreciated that he listened (because let’s be real, not all pro shop guys do), but I wasn’t ready for a change like that. I was overwhelmed and emotional, and eventually asked him to redrill it back to what I knew. Easy fix, but mentally, I was just not in a space to embrace something new.

Fast forward to three weeks ago—and something had shifted. It’s summer. I’m feeling freer, lighter, and more myself. I’ve come to terms with the fact that bowling isn’t my entire life. I’ve got other amazing things going for me, and most importantly, I’ve made peace with my game again.

So I went back to my driller and said, “Let’s try that change again.” This time, on my terms.

I brought him an old ball I no longer use, and after just one 3-hour practice session—with tweaks to my timing, swing, and shoulder positioning—I felt like a different bowler. I wasn’t squeezing the ball, my hand felt free, and for once I wasn’t worried about dropping it. It felt so right.

Since then, I’ve committed. I’ve been slowly redrilling all of my gear—yes, all 30+ balls!—to match this new fit. It’s been a process (and he’s still not done), but I’ve already seen more improvement in the last 3 weeks than I have in the past 8 months.

And honestly? I’m proud of myself.

I’m proud that I didn’t force a change when I wasn’t ready. I’m proud I asked for help when I was ready. I’m proud of the growth—on the lanes and off. I love this sport, and I finally feel that love again. Bowling feels fun again. This is how it’s supposed to feel.

If you’re in a slump—bowling or otherwise—I just want to remind you: it’s okay. Give yourself grace. Don’t force it. Maybe just say, “Not today... but someday.” Trust yourself. Trust life's timing. And always, always be a Bowling Baddie. 💖

Love you guys.
xx