What should I practice / How should I prepare

*** This will be updated over the coming weeks to add more resources and tips, bookmark and check back. ***

• You need to get practice on sport oil patterns.
  • One or two sport tournaments aren’t enough, you’ll want to find a sport oil league, or do as many practice sessions with other bowlers on different patterns as possible. Check out the videos on sport oil patterns at the National Bowling Academy, and more information coming soon.
• Practicing spare shooting on sport oil patterns can not be understated.
  • You aren’t going to be striking as much, and spare shooting is the difference between making the cut and going home.
• Learn surface management
  • Get some Abralon or TruCut pads and learn how adjusting the surface of the bowling ball can give you the ball motion you need for a particular pattern.
• Hone your mental game
  • Junior Gold is an awesome experience, but it’s also a grind. Everybody has bad squads, even the superstars. You’re going to get frustrated with your shot making, and keeping your head in the game can mean adding those extra few pins to move on.
• Check out the Junior Gold preparation videos from PBA Pros Andrew Anderson and Kyle Sherman
• Learn single lane courtesy – Most people already have a handle on this, but every year we see some people who aren’t aware, and you don’t want to be “that guy/girl”.
• Check our the “Logistical Tips” page for practical, planning, and travel tips.
• Make sure you compile the accessories for your tournament bag ahead of time, supplies can be scarce at Junior Gold.

Last Updated on October 2, 2019 by John Voorhis