Worst game ever

[Phoenix]

I hit a new low today...For a guy who bowled in college and had a 140-150 average with a junk lane ball and rented shoes...and then bought his own equipment and reached 180, I went into an alley today with my 13 year old brother-in-law and not only got beaten by him with his rented shoes and junk lane ball, but managed only a   lousy 78! I can blame a long day at work, that I was tired, that my shoes are now a half size too small and all torn up, that I brought the wrong ball for the lane conditions...but I won't. I really just plain sucked. I even tried to overcompensate and let frustration get to me and really embarassed myself by slipping over the line and onto the alley. Managed to twist my elbow and shoulder pretty good...Not blaming that either... Ever feel like you need to take a step back and start all over again with bowling lessons?

Phoenix

[MI 2 AZ]

Phoenix,

Thats why they call it an average.  Everyone has bad games (some worse than others) and good games (some better than others).  Dont get too down on yourself over it.  Always try to learn something from every outing, good or bad.  Even though you did not use any of the events that happened as an excuse, they had to have effected your performance especially that many all at once.

Getting lessons is a good idea especially if you are committed to listen and learn.  I recently attended a bowling clinic (Dick Ritger) and learned a lot from that.  I have had to make some minor changes in my game and my scores went down immediately after the clinic, but I am going to stay with the changes because I know that the long-term benefits will be worth it.  Try to find someone in your area that can coach you and I am sure you will enjoy the results.

[Phoenix]

MI,
I appreciate that. I have had a chance to cool down although my knees and shoulder are still preventing me from getting right back on the horse that threw me. I'm willing to do what it takes to adjust my game as much as my body will allow me to do so. I'm not aiming to be a pro bowler here, but I'd like to carry my weight if I play in a league and right now I don't have the confidence or consistancy I'd like to.

I will pursue a bowling coach though at least to see where I stand. Who knows? Maybe I chose the wrong balls for my arsenal altogether in weight, how they are drilled, etc. A good coach might be able to help me retool my game. Now I just have to find one in my area who knows what he is doing.

Thanks,

Phoenix

[MI 2 AZ]

If you post the area you are in, perhaps someone here could recommend a good coach for you.

Check at your local proshop to see if they offer lessons/coaching and check in at the local centers, sometimes the youth coaches are willing to help new bowlers or even experienced ones.

Good luck and hope you heal quickly.