Hello guys and gals,

I've been lurking for about a week, reading (with great interest) posts on USBC proposals, new breed balls, and the direction of bowling in general. I learned to bowl at the age of 6, and started bowling in a men's league at the age of 14. I hung it up at age 20 when I got married and had my first child. That was 10 years ago, and I was averaging 210 on Tuesdays, and 218 on Fridays. I was throwing a yellow dot, a U dot, and a teal Rhino Pro. I still have all three balls, and threw them again for the first time last Wednesday. I threw 6 games with that Rhino Pro, and averaged 215 for the set (low was 178, high was 268). This with 10-12 year old equipment in a house I have never bowled in before! I plan to continue practicing this summer, and get into a couple leagues next fall. Will I buy a modern ball? You bet! Why not take advantage of what is available to me to achieve an old goal (300/800)?  Do I think scoring is out of hand today? You bet! However, bowling remains as much (or more) a thinking game, as it is a physical game. Throwing the ball well only works if you know (a) which ball to throw, and (b) where to throw it.  Regardless of what the USBC does, I will still bowl. Doing the best I can manage with what is available (and legal) is the ultimate goal. I'll keep my old equipment (if for no other reason...to practice with). From what I understand, the new generation of balls will not last more than a year. I will still buy one this summer and try it next season, just to see how it will work. Anyhow, glad to have stumbled onto this group...you all seem to share the passion for the game. Just remember that is that passion that will keep bowling alive no matter how the rules evolve.