Faqs
Where can I find a schedule?
How much does it cost to bowl in a PBA tournament
How can I pay for the event?
How much money can I make?
Do I have to join if I cash in a tournament?
What is the average requirement for Non-Members?
What do I need to do before I bowl in a tournament?
What do we have to wear during the tournament?
What are the pre-tournament procedures?
What is the rule for lane courtesy?
What are the rules for scorekeeping during a PBA Tournament?
May I alter my bowling ball during competition?
What are the Post-Qualifying Weigh in procedures?
What is product registration?
What is the policy for dead ball situations?
What is PBA's policy about coaching?
What is the best way to insure that I will get a good response from the membership service department?
Where can I find the final results of my Pro-Am? When will I get a prize list?
What are the rules of the Pro-Am competition?
Is there a prize fund? If so, what is the prize fund?
Are your Pro-Am tournaments sanctioned?
What is the locker room policy?
What is PBA's policy about alcohol/smoking?
Can I earn an exemption as a non-member?
When do I have to be at the bowling center?
What credit cards does the PBA accept?
Will I receive a ring if I bowl 300?
How do I apply for a Commissioner’s Exemptions?
Who do I contact when I get to a tournament site?
When is my payment due? ( for tournament?)
What is the correct procedure to withdrawal from a PBA tournament?
Do I qualify to become a PBA Member?
How do I reinstate my membership?
How do I change my address, e-mail address or telephone number?
How do I change the credit card information that is being used to pay dues?
Can I put the PBA logo on my checks, business cards, pro shop ads, etc?
How do I order PBA patches or bag tags?
How do I order a new PBA card?
Where can I get entry forms for tournaments?
How many tournaments can I bowl in as a Standard Member?
How do I order my 300 ring and or diamonds?
How can I find an answer to a Rules question?
How do I get my Pro Shop listed on the PBA website?
I can’t log onto the Member’s only portion of the website. What am I doing wrong?
How do I change my membership classification?
Will the same oil pattern be used for the Pro-Ams as they bowl on during the week and on TV?
How does a Pro-Am work? Do I actually get to bowl with a professional? What is a Pro-Am? How many total games are bowled in a Pro-Am? Does my Pro-Am entry mean I will actually get to bowl with a professional or does it just get me in to an autograph signing session?
If I purchase my Pro-Am entry early, will I get to bowl with a "better¨ bowler? Is there any advantage to purchasing my entry early?
What time is my Pro-Am? What time does the bowling actually start? What time do I need to be there?
How/Where do I sign up for a Pro-Am? Where can I get an entry form?
Are there any Pro-Ams in the summer?
What’s included in the cost of my Pro-Am entry?
When is the best time to try and get autographs?
The schedule says that the bowlers scheduled to appear is subject to change. How many of the bowlers are actually going to be there on Saturday? Do bowlers who are not participating in the Pro-Am show up?
What time is my Pro-Am?
I have a lifetime membership with the USBC but haven’t bowled in a few years. What average should I use? I am not a very good bowler, is there a certain average I have to have in order to participate in a Pro-Am?
My friend and I want to bowl in a Pro-Am. If we buy tickets together, does that guarantee that we can bowl together?
Where can I get a Pro-Am entry form?
Is there a dress code for the Pro-Am? Can I wear jeans?
How long does it take to be contacted if you are eligible for a prize?
How do I volunteer to help out on the Tour? Can I help set up at the Pro-Ams?
How can I find out how many of the tickets are left for a particular show?
Do I have to buy tickets for my children? What are the age requirements?
Is my ticket good for both the round of 16 and the round of 8? Is my ticket good all day?
Do I have to be a member in good standing with the USBC?
Are tickets available at the door or do they have to be purchased in advance?
I need to pick up my tickets at will call. When can I pick them up?
Do I have to buy a ticket to watch the Pro-Ams?
I see the PBA Tour is coming but when do the TV show tickets go on sale?
How/Where can I purchase tickets?
Do PBA members have to buy spectator tickets? Why isn’t this included as part of my membership dues?
I received my TV show tickets but there is no seat number. Is the seating for each section first-come, first-served? If so, what time should I arrive?
Are the TV show tickets the same price for children and adults? Do I have to buy tickets for my children?
How can I get tickets for the Skills Challenge?
How do I obtain player photos?
How do I get a bowling center grant?
Can I purchase PBA videos?
Where can I find out if the ball I have is legal in PBA competition?
I am PBA Member, why isn't my Pro Shop listed?
My local center is listed on pba.com as an Official Practice Center but they wouldn't honor the $2. Can you tell me why?
How do I get discounts from the PBA Sponsors?
How do I locate a bowling center that will honor my free game of bowling?
My password won’t work?
I can register with my hotmail, excite, lycos or yahoo address?
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What is a PBA Tour Qualifying Round (TQR)?
How can I become an Exempt bowler?
Q: How can I enter a PBA tournament?
A: PBA Tour (Except Masters)
Fill out a PBA Tour entry form (click here to download). The entry form should be mailed to the PBA offices. This does not guarantee you a spot in the tournament.
USBC Masters and USBC Senior Masters
To enter this tournament you will need to contact the United States Bowling Congress at 1-800-514-2695 x3415 and ask for Tom Boedecker or you can go to www.bowl.com.
PBA Senior Tour
Fill out a PBA Senior Tour entry form (click here to download). The entry form should be mailed to the PBA offices. All non-members are placed on standby until 30 days prior to the tournament at which time you will be placed in the tournament if spots are available.
PBA Regional Tour
Fill out a PBA Regional entry form (click here to download). The entry form should be mailed to the appropriate Regional Manager. This does not guarantee you a spot in the tournament. Spots are held for PBA members first and are on a first-come, first served basis. Non-members are confirmed into the event the Tuesday prior to the event, based on date of paid entry.
Q: Where can I find a schedule?
A: PBA Tour Schedule
PBA Senior Tour Schedule
Central Region
East Region
Midwest Region
Northwest Region
South Region
Southwest Region
West Region
Complete PBA Regional Tour Schedule
Complete PBA Regional Senior Tour Schedule
Q: How much does it cost to bowl in a PBA tournament
A: Regional Tour - $220 Regional Tour - $285 (non-members)Regional Players Championship - $285
Senior Tour - $425, Senior Tour - $475 (non-members)
PBA Tour - $500, PBA Tour Qualifying Round - $300 (both members and non-members) Bowlers who qualify will have an additional $200 taken out of the prize check to cover the rest of the entry fee. Tour Trials-$1,300 (30 days prior), $1,500 (after 30 days), Open tournament non-member spots-$600 (except U.S. Open which remains $500)
Q: How can I pay for the event?
A: PBA Tour
Non-members may pay by credit card, money order or cashiers check, or cash on-site (for PBA Tour qualifying rounds only). For the U.S. Open, the entry fee is to be paid to the PBA.
PBA Regional Tour
The PBA accepts only money orders or cashiers checks for non-member entries. These should be made out to the PBA and mailed to the appropriate Regional Manager or given to the Regional Manager at the tournament site if spots are available.
PBA Senior Tour
Non-members may pay by credit card, money order or cashiers check, or cash on-site.
Q: How much money can I make?
A: PBA Regional and Senior Tour prize funds are based on the number of entries. The minimum cash spot in PBA Regional Tour events is $400. First-place prizes vary from tournament to tournament. In PBA Senior Tour events the minimum cash spot is $900 ($700 for Super Seniors out of the cash). First-place prize in Standard Senior Tour events is $8,000. In Regional and Senior Tour competition places are paid on a 1:3 ratio or 1:4 if entries exceed 160 entries, with a minimum of 53 cash spots.
PBA Tour Prize Funds
Q: Do I have to join if I cash in a tournament?
A: PBA Tour
Non-members may cash in an unlimited number of PBA Tour qualifying rounds but may only advance once per season. The U.S. Open and USBC Masters do not count as a cash on tour.
PBA Regional Tour
Non-members are allowed to cash twice during the calendar year without having to become a PBA member. If a player cashes twice and chooses to bowl again during the season he will be required to join if he cashes again and accepts the prize money. The Member/Non-Member Doubles event in each region does not count toward the two cash rule.
PBA Senior Tour
Non-members are allowed to cash once during the season (excluding the Senior U.S. Open and USBC Senior Masters) without having to become a PBA member. If a player cashes once and chooses to bowl again during the season he will be required to join if he cashes again and accepts the prize money.
Q: What is the average requirement for Non-Members?
A: To bowl in a PBA event as a non-member you must meet the average requirement to become a PBA member. You must average at least 200 in an USBC sanctioned league or 190 in a sanctioned Sport or PBA Experience league.
Q: What do I need to do before I bowl in a tournament?
A: All non-members competing in PBA events must fill out a non-member voluntary acknowledgement form prior to bowling, which you will receive at the tournament site. You will need your Social Security number and your USBC Sanction card to fill out the form. All tournaments are USBC sanctioned.
Q: What do we have to wear during the tournament?
A: As a non-member competing in a professional event, you should make every effort to maintain a professional appearance in both clothing and personal grooming at all times. While competing in all PBA events the following guidelines must be adhered to during the practice session and all phases of competition. During PBA Tour events these guidelines must be adhered to at all times while in the center:
• Jeans, draw strings or parachute type pants may not be worn during competition.
• Shorts may not be worn during competition.
• T-Shirts may not be worn during competition.
• Earrings are permitted as long as they are in good taste.
• Items that hang or protrude from apparel may not be worn in competition.
• Hats may not be worn during competition.
• If a shirt is tucked into pants with belt loops, a belt must be worn.
• Any shirt that does not button down top to bottom must be tucked in.
• While in competition, your last name (first names are optional) must appear in permanently attached letters at least two (2) inches high in the central back area of the shirt.
• The back of the shirt (yoke) is reserved for PBA logo use (no fashion logos are allowed).
• Small fashion logos are permitted during PBA Tour competition.
• You must wear a PBA logo on the lower right sleeve position of your shirt. Other logos may be required and will be provided at the tournament site along with the PBA logo.
• All logos must be approved by the PBA. Displayed logos may not be more than six square inches in size. The right sleeve shall be reserved for the PBA logo and corporate tour sponsors. A total of four logos may be displayed as follows:
Two logos on the left sleeve
One logo on the left breast
One logo on the right breast
Logos may not be worn anywhere other than the three designated areas on the shirt
Competitors may not display more than two (2) logos of any (1) manufacturer or commercial sponsor
Q: What are the pre-tournament procedures?
A: Before participating in the tournament, there are several things that you must know to ensure that your tournament experience is a smooth one.
A mandatory non-member meeting is scheduled prior to all tournaments to go over rules and procedures. The time and place will be listed on the schedule.
Find out your squad assignment and what time your squad is scheduled to compete. An alphabetical assignment sheet will be posted in the player locker room and a copy placed at the host center control counter the afternoon prior to the scheduled practice session for the event.
You are not required to register your bowling equipment for use in PBA competition. However, you are responsible for ensuring that your equipment meets PBA specifications. You may be subject to random spot checks at anytime during the tournament. PBA staff is available to assist you in checking your equipment, as needed.
Roll will be called thirty (30) minutes prior to the start of the first qualifying round. Your presence is required in roll call to confirm tournament entries, and obtain any information that may be touched on by the Tournament Director.
Q: What is the rule for lane courtesy?
A: PBA lane courtesy may be somewhat different than to what you are accustomed. That’s because the PBA uses a one (1) pair lane courtesy at all times.
This rule is also referred to as the “Double Jumping” rule.
A “Double Jump” occurs when, following another player’s delivery on your pair, you step onto the approach before one (1) competitor on the pair to your left and one (1) competitor on the pair to the right have thrown a shot.
When you master this rule, you will find that the pace of play is much smoother and faster than when using the ordinary two (2) lane courtesy rule.
Q: What are the rules for scorekeeping during a PBA Tournament?
A: Your score is the most direct way for you to measure your success in a PBA event. It is extremely important for you to ensure the accuracy of your scores, as well as attesting the scores of one other player on your pair.
The player finishing the game first should record the game scores and complete the plus/minus totals for everyone on the pair during all phases of the tournament. During match play, make sure to verify and initial your opponents score sheet directly following the match.
The PBA scoring system is derived by adding or subtracting the amount of pins from a 200 score for each game, on a cumulative basis.
Record all equipment used during competition by the end of the first game it was put into play. The documentation of each ball on the score sheet should include:
1. The last four digits of the serial number
2. Grips used (if any)
3. Extra holes or any holes have been drilled deeper
4. Slugs or plugs used
The Tournament Director (as well as your fellow competitors) has the right to spot check any ball for compliance with specification guidelines.
Your opponent must verify and record all re-racks that you take. You are permitted only two re-racks per game during competition and must verify each re-rack with an opposing player before taking it.
Q: May I alter my bowling ball during competition?
A: Sanding or polishing equipment is not permitted after a player throws his first ball for score during each round of competition. If the ball is not subsequently used then a Minor Penalty ($100) will be imposed. If the equipment is used during that round, the player will be disqualified.
Q: What are the Post-Qualifying Weigh in procedures?
A: After qualifying rounds, players finishing in certain positions must produce score sheet copies along with all equipment listed on their score sheet documented thereon for an official spot check thirty (30) minutes prior to the start of the semifinal round (weigh-in positions will be dependant on the number of cash spots). If you fail to comply with the above mentioned rules, you may be subject to an improper weigh-in fine or disqualification.
Q: What is product registration?
A: The PBA owns the exclusive right to regulate the use of its name, trademarks and logos. The PBA will provide opportunities, in the form of licensing and sponsorships, for companies to promote and display their products, product names, trademarks and logos to consumers. Companies that desire to take advantage of these opportunities must first register their products with the PBA, so that these products might be cleared for use in PBA competition. A current list of product registered companies can be found here:
Product Registered Companies. This list is also posted at every PBA tournament.
Basic rules:
1. Competitors may not use any non-registered bowling products in PBA competition.
2. Competitors may not use a non-registered bowling ball in PBA competition. Failure to comply will result in immediate disqualification. Locate approved equipment list here.
3. Competitors may not display non-registered company names and/or product logos in PBA competition.
4. Competitors may not darken or in anyway obstruct any product registered logo.
Q: What is the policy for dead ball situations?
A: The Tournament Director must be notified whenever someone has bowled on the wrong lane, out of turn, or when a pin must be removed from the lane or gutter. It is always best to ask rather than continue without being sure of the rule.
Q: What is PBA's policy about coaching?
A: Coaching is defined as, but not limited to, any advice given to a competitor regarding ball selection, lane strategy, mental thought processes or physical mechanics. Coaching shall not be allowed once competition for score begins. Additionally there shall be no exchange of competitive information between competitors from the start of a specific round, until that round is complete (warning for first offense, disqualification for second offense). This also includes the use of cell phones or other texting devices during competition.
Q: What is the best way to insure that I will get a good response from the membership service department?
A: When you contact membership services either on the phone or by e-mail, please have your PBA number available to avoid confusion and faster service. Also have paper and a pen to take down information.
Q: Where can I find the final results of my Pro-Am? When will I get a prize list?
A: You must contact the bowling center for this information.
Q: What are the rules of the Pro-Am competition?
A: Rules for the Pro-Am competition, including prize fund rules and age restrictions, vary from tournament to tournament. Please contact the tournament host center or Pro-Am center(s) to find out the rules specific to the Pro-Am competition you are interested in.
Q: Is there a prize fund? If so, what is the prize fund?
A: Prize funds vary by tournament. Please check with the Host Center to find out more information.
Q: Are your Pro-Am tournaments sanctioned?
A: No, they are not sanctioned.
Q: What is the locker room policy?
A: A maximum of nine (9) bowling balls per competitor will be allowed in the locker room during qualifying. During match play all finalists will be allowed an unlimited number of bowling balls in the locker room. Loose bowling balls will not be permitted in the locker room.
Q: What is PBA's policy about alcohol/smoking?
A: Competitors may not consume alcohol products on the tournament host center premises until their competition is completed for the day. Competitors may not consume tobacco products on the tournament host center premises during competition. Competitors may only consume alcohol and use tobacco products in a designated area to be determined by the Tournament Director. Competitors may not consume alcohol or use tobacco products while wearing their name shirt.
Q: Can I earn an exemption as a non-member?
A: Only members are eligible to earn exemptions.
Q: When do I have to be at the bowling center?
A: There is a mandatory non-member meeting prior to each event. It will be held ½ hour before roll-call at each tournament unless otherwise indicated on the PBA website or your tournament confirmation.
Q: What credit cards does the PBA accept?
A: Visa, Mastercard and Discover
Q: Will I receive a ring if I bowl 300?
A: Not as a non-member. Only PBA members receive a PBA ring when bowling their first 300 game.
Q: How do I apply for a Commissioner’s Exemptions?
A: The weekly Commissioner’s Exemption spot is being dropped, giving the Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour a total of 59 exempt bowlers. PBA Commissioner and CEO Fred Schreyer still reserves the right to award a Commissioner’s Exemption under special circumstances, with the spot now being taken from the weekly Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour Qualifying Round in such situations.
Q: Who do I contact when I get to a tournament site?
A: If you have entered and paid and attended the mandatory non-member meeting you may go directly to the locker room for roll-call. If you are entering on site or owe your entry fee, please see the Tournament Director.
Q: When is my payment due? ( for tournament?)
A: All non-member’s entry fees are due upon entry.
Q: What is the correct procedure to withdrawal from a PBA tournament?
A: If you withdraw from a tournament, please do the following:
1.) Confirm your withdrawal in writing to the Seattle office or Regional Manager.
2.) If it is after the deadline date, contact the tournament director on the road.
There will be a fee for withdrawing from a tournament of $25.
Q: Do I qualify to become a PBA Member?
A: You have three different options to qualify for membership in the PBA:
1. Average 200 or better with 36 games.
2. Average 190 or better with 36 game in an USBC certified Sports League
3. Cash in one of the PBA's more than 180 Regional Tournaments; PBA Tour Qualifier Rounds or open PBA tournaments.
Q: How do I reinstate my membership?
A: Download and fill out the reinstatement application on line. Anyone who was a member before January 1, 2001 pays a reinstatement fee of $99.00. If you were a member on or after that date you must pay a fee equal to twice the current PBA initiation fee.
Q: How do I change my address, e-mail address or telephone number?
A: You may log onto the member's only portion of the website and change the information there, call and ask for Membership Services at Extension 6026 with that information or e-mail membership@pba.com.
Q: How do I change the credit card information that is being used to pay dues?
A: You may call and ask for Membership Services at Extension 6026 with that information or e-mail dues@pba.com.
Q: Can I put the PBA logo on my checks, business cards, pro shop ads, etc?
A: The PBA logo is trademarked and may not be used.
Q: How do I order PBA patches or bag tags?
A: Patches and Bag Tags are $3.00 each. They are available through your Regional Manager or the Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour Tournament Directors.
Q: How do I order a new PBA card?
A: There is a fee of $10.00 to replace a PBA membership card. You can send an e-mail to membership@pba.com and tell how us how you would like to pay for it or send a check to the Seattle office.
Q: Where can I get entry forms for tournaments?
A: You can get entry forms from your member newsletters, on-line or you can call and the PBA will be happy to fax one over to you.
Q: How many tournaments can I bowl in as a Standard Member?
A: A Standard member may bowl in three (3) Regional and/or Regional senior tournaments, three (3) PBA Tour Qualifying Rounds, the PBA U.S. Open, USBC Masters, World Championship and any other Open tournaments being held during the PBA Tour or Senior Tour.
Q: How do I order my 300 ring and or diamonds?
A: You can order your ring and diamonds by going to the member’s only section of the website and clicking on 300 ring. Fill out the information and it will be sent directly to the jeweler. If you don’t wish to use the website, you will receive a letter from the PBA a few weeks after you bowl your 300 game with instructions and forms to fill out to order your award.
Q: How can I find an answer to a Rules question?
A: You can access the PBA Rulebook here for the most up-to-date rules. You also received a rulebook last season and we recently sent out an addendum to that book in August of 2005. You can also contact your Regional Manager or a tournament director for this information.
Q: How do I get my Pro Shop listed on the PBA website?
A: You must be a Full member to list your pro shop. In addition, you are permitted to wear a patch on your bowling shirt of your pro shop logo. Call membership services or e-mail the name of the Pro Shop, street address, city, state and zip code to proshops@pba.com along with the phone number, fax number and e-mail address or website address.
Q: I can’t log onto the Member’s only portion of the website. What am I doing wrong?
A: If you have never logged on before, you should type in your PBA number as your username and your complete social security number (with dashes) as your password. You should get a box which asks you to create your own password as well as a security question. Once you have filled out this information you should be taken directly to the website. If for some reason you can’t access this site, please call membership services or e-mail membership@pba.com
Q: How do I change my membership classification?
A: If you wish to upgrade your membership and you pay monthly dues, please e-mail membership@pba.com before the 6th of the month to change from Standard to Full. If you have paid your dues in full then you need to send us a check for the balance due. (Example: If you are paid through September and it is currently January you would send us a check for $117 ($13 X 9) for your February through September dues.)
Members who wish to go from Full to Standard must pay a $50 fee. If you pay monthly, we will lower your payment. If you have paid in full we will reconfigure your dues on your account.
Q: Will the same oil pattern be used for the Pro-Ams as they bowl on during the week and on TV?
A: Please click on the center you are participating at, or call the center for this specific information. One or more squads may be on the PBA pattern for that week, at the center’s discretion.
Q: How does a Pro-Am work? Do I actually get to bowl with a professional? What is a Pro-Am? How many total games are bowled in a Pro-Am? Does my Pro-Am entry mean I will actually get to bowl with a professional or does it just get me in to an autograph signing session?
A: At a PBA Tour Pro-Am event, you will have the opportunity to bowl with 3-6 Exempt PBA Tour Professionals (your Host Center will provide the details for the event you have signed up for). A Pro-Am entry means that you are paying to bowl with the professionals, not just to watch them.
Q: If I purchase my Pro-Am entry early, will I get to bowl with a "better¨ bowler? Is there any advantage to purchasing my entry early?
A: The Professionals rotate every five (5) frames of the Pro-Am, so signing up early does not guarantee what Professionals you will bowl with, however, it does guarantee your spot. Pro-Am squads are filled on a first-come, first-served basis, so if all squads are filled before the day of the Pro-Am, you will not be able to sign up on-site. Some centers may offer discounts to bowlers who sign up early. Please check with your Host Center for more information.
Q: What time is my Pro-Am? What time does the bowling actually start? What time do I need to be there?
A: All Pro-Am squad times are listed on PBA.com and are available at the center as well. Please arrive one hour early to ensure prompt check-in.
Q: How/Where do I sign up for a Pro-Am? Where can I get an entry form?
A: Contact your Host Center for details on dates, times, format(s), prize fund(s) and pricing.
Q: Are there any Pro-Ams in the summer?
A: There are Pro-Ams in the summer for our Regional and Senior Tours. Please check the Regional and Senior Tour schedules on PBA.com for Pro-Ams in your area.
Q: What’s included in the cost of my Pro-Am entry?
A: Most Pro-Am packages include many great items in addition to bowling with the best bowlers in the world! Packages do vary by tournament, however, so please check with the center you wish to bowl at to see what is offered for your Pro-Am!
Q: When is the best time to try and get autographs?
A: The best times to try and get autographs is at either the Practice/Autograph session Wednesday morning (8am – 10am) or at the Pro-Ams.
Q: The schedule says that the bowlers scheduled to appear is subject to change. How many of the bowlers are actually going to be there on Saturday? Do bowlers who are not participating in the Pro-Am show up?
A: The bowlers are divided equally between the host and Pro-Am centers (if there are Pro-Am centers). They will also be divided equally between all Pro-Am squads. The number of bowlers bowling on a particular squad will vary depending on the size of the Pro-Am field. The four (4) bowlers who are on the TV show will not bowl in the Pro-Am, but will be available for autographs and pictures, before they must leave to fulfill media obligations.
Q: What time is my Pro-Am?
A: Pro-Am times are listed on PBA.com under each center’s information.
Q: I have a lifetime membership with the USBC but haven’t bowled in a few years. What average should I use? I am not a very good bowler, is there a certain average I have to have in order to participate in a Pro-Am?
A: You do not need a specific average to participate in a Pro-Am. If you do not have an average of 21 games or more from either the 2004–05 season or 2005–06 season, then you must bowl scratch.
Q: My friend and I want to bowl in a Pro-Am. If we buy tickets together, does that guarantee that we can bowl together?
A: Purchasing tickets together does not guarantee that you will bowl together. The center does the lane assignments, so please contact them directly to request to bowl with someone else.
Q: Where can I get a Pro-Am entry form?
A: Pro-Am entry forms can be obtained from the center you wish to bowl at.
Q: Is there a dress code for the Pro-Am? Can I wear jeans?
A: There is no dress code for the Pro-Am. Jeans are acceptable. All bowlers must wear bowling shoes while bowling.
Q: How long does it take to be contacted if you are eligible for a prize?
A: The center should contact you within 60 days after the conclusion of their Tournament.
Q: How do I volunteer to help out on the Tour? Can I help set up at the Pro-Ams?
A: The PBA and host center are always looking for volunteers. If you wish to volunteer for the tournament, please contact the center regarding availability.
Q: How can I find out how many of the tickets are left for a particular show?
A: Please visit PBA.com and click on the tournament you wish you attend. If the $60 seats are an option for you at purchase, for instance, then there are $60 tickets available for that TV show.
Q: Do I have to buy tickets for my children? What are the age requirements?
A: Requirements for children can vary by tournament. Please contact the center hosting the tournament you will be attending for more information.
Q: Is my ticket good for both the round of 16 and the round of 8? Is my ticket good all day?
A: Ticket prices and selection can vary from one tournament to the next. Typically, a ticket for the round of 16 is good only for the round of 16 and a ticket for the round of 8 is good only for the round of 8. If you would like to attend more than one session on any day, most centers offer day and week passes that can save you money.
Q: Do I have to be a member in good standing with the USBC?
A: You must be a member in good standing with the United States Bowling Congress (USBC) in order to participate in PBA events.
If for some reason your USBC membership is suspended, you will not be permitted to bowl in PBA events until your USBC membership has been reinstated.
Q: Are tickets available at the door or do they have to be purchased in advance?
A: All tickets will be available at the door as long as there is availability. The only days that are subject to sellout are the TV show and Pro-Am squads. The only tickets available for pre-sale are the TV show, Week Passes and Pro-Am entries. All other tickets are ONLY available at the door.
Q: I need to pick up my tickets at will call. When can I pick them up?
A: You will pick up your tickets are the front gate when you arrive at the bowling center.
Q: Do I have to buy a ticket to watch the Pro-Ams?
A: Yes, you need a ticket to watch the Pro-Ams. Ticket prices are listed under the tournament schedule on PBA.com.
Q: I see the PBA Tour is coming but when do the TV show tickets go on sale?
A: TV show tickets go on sale one month or more prior to the start of the tournament. Please check PBA.com for exact on-sale dates.
Q: How/Where can I purchase tickets?
A: TV show tickets can be purchased at PBA.com. For Daily Tickets, a Week Pass, or Pro-Am Entries, please call or visit your Bowling Center.
Q: Do PBA members have to buy spectator tickets? Why isn’t this included as part of my membership dues?
A: PBA members do not have to pay to purchase spectator tickets. Entry is free when you show your PBA member card at the front desk. Entry for PBA members is free Wednesday – Saturday. PBA members must purchase a ticket for entry to the TV show.
Q: I received my TV show tickets but there is no seat number. Is the seating for each section first-come, first-served? If so, what time should I arrive?
A: Seating is first come-first served for each section. So, you are guaranteed a seat within that section, but not a specific seat in that section. Everyone must be seated 30 minutes prior to the start of the telecast. You will want to arrive 60 – 90 minutes early to line up for your seating.
Q: Are the TV show tickets the same price for children and adults? Do I have to buy tickets for my children?
A: Prices are the same for children and adults. Children under the ago of five are free.
Q: How can I get tickets for the Skills Challenge?
A: The PBA Skills Challenge will be taped after the live telecasts in the following cities during the 2006-07 season – Taylor, MI; Baltimore, MD and Medford, OR. No additional tickets are required to view this taping as TV show tickets will entitle you to watch this special event.
Q: How do I obtain player photos?
A: Unfortunately, the PBA does not have photos of players available. Individual pros may provide photos, so you may send a request that will be forwarded to the player or players you're seeking.
Q: How do I get a bowling center grant?
A: The PBA does not offer grants. You may wish to contact the Bowling Proprietors Association of America, at www.bpaa.com, to see if they know of or offer some type of assistance.
You may wish to contact the Bowling Proprietors Association of America, at www.bpaa.com for help with your questions on opening a center.
Q: Can I purchase PBA videos?
A: Unfortunately, at this time there are no tapes available for sale. If they become available in the future, it will be announced on the website.
Q: Where can I find out if the ball I have is legal in PBA competition?
A: Please click the Approved Equipment link located in the “Resources” Menu item and select the ball manufacture to see a list of all approved equipment.
Q: I am PBA Member, why isn't my Pro Shop listed?
A: Pro Shop listings are a benefit for Full PBA Members only. If you are a full Member who owns or works in a Pro Shop please e-mail proshops@pba.com
Q: My local center is listed on pba.com as an Official Practice Center but they wouldn't honor the $2. Can you tell me why?
A: Please e-mail the center name and who you spoke to practicecenters@pba.com. We will investigate the matter and remove the Practice center if they are no longer honoring the program
Q: How do I get discounts from the PBA Sponsors?
A: If sponsor offers are available they will be listed in the PBA Newsletter for our members
Q: How do I locate a bowling center that will honor my free game of bowling?
A: Visit the “What’s Happening” link on pba.com. Please contact the PBA directly if you are unable to locate a center.
Q: My password won’t work?
A: Please be sure you are entering your password exactly as written, using lower case and capital letters where indicated.
In order to change your password, select “My Profile” and click on “View/Update” profile. You may then change your password and the new password will be emailed to you.
To get your password, click on "Lost Password" at the login prompt. It will be emailed to you.
Q: I can register with my hotmail, excite, lycos or yahoo address?
A: Excite.com, lycos.com, yahoo.com and hotmail.com have been banned because of the high incidence of abusive users originating from those addresses. To register, you will have to use an address other than these. Sorry for the inconvenience.
Q: Email account
A: This benefit is available to all PBA members that already have an email address and internet access. Feel free to use it to demonstrate your status as a PBA member, the account will stay active for as long as your membership continues.
Your PBA account will be set up to automatically forward any mail received to this email address. That means you would be set up to receive messages sent to your PBA account at your current email address.
To set up your account, send your PBA number, name and the email address you would want to use to Membership Services, at membership@pba.com
Q: How do I cancel my RealOne account?
A: To cancel your RealOne account, please contact RealNetwork’s Customer Service center at 1-800-632-8920. To redownload software or make other changes to your account, visit the appropriate section of My Account
Q: Real One Telephone support for subscribers
A: Phone support is provided to customers who:
• have a current RealOne subscription
• have a current Subscription entitling them to phone support and upgrades and are using the current version of the product.
•
Phone support for current versions is available in North America for US$25 per call to customers that do not have a subscription.
Technical Support for current versions of RealOne Player, RealPlayer Plus and RealJukebox Plus is available in English an Spanish by phone in North America at 206-674-2680.
Monday - Friday, 9:00 am to 10:30 pm - Eastern Time
Saturday - Sunday, 10:30 am to 10:30 pm - Eastern Time
Technical support for RealOne Player, RealPlayer Plus and RealJukebox Plus is available by phone during business hours in customers outside the United States. Support is available in English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese.
Q: RealOne Membership
A: If you need to change your billing information, My Account will give you instructions in the My Membership section. Go to My Account at https://account.real.com/acct/login.html and log in. In the My Membership section, click Manage My Membership.
Q: RealOne - My Information
A: This lists your name, e-mail address, secret question, user preferences, and billing information. You can edit elements of your profile at any time. Please note our secure servers protect all of your personal information.
Q: RealOne - Billing History
A: This lets you view all of your purchases from RealNetworks within the last year, the status of memberships. It also lets you redownload software you have purchased during the past 12 months.
Q: What is a PBA Tour Qualifying Round (TQR)?
A: During the Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour season, the PBA holds Open tournaments including the USBC Masters, Dick Weber Open, U.S. Open, PBA World Championship and Marathon Open. There is one (1) invitational (Tournament of Champions).
The remainder of the tournaments are Standard tournaments. The entry field in these tournaments is 64 bowlers. This includes 58 Exempt players. These players received their exemptions for the season in the following ways.
1. Standard event titlists from the previous season and Major titlists with multi-season exemptions.
2. Top 40 on the Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour Point List
3. Top seven bowlers in the RPI who paid an additional fee to earn an exemption.
4. The rest of the spots come from the PBA Tour Trials
The remaining six (6) spots are determined in a PBA Tour Qualifying Round or TQR. Members and non-member bowl seven (7) games of qualifying the first day of the tournament (see PBA Schedule). If for some reason an exempt bowler must withdraw from the tournament, the additional qualifying spot will come from the TQR.
Q: How can I become an Exempt bowler?
A: HOW DOES A PBA MEMBER BECOME EXEMPT?
To earn an exemption on the PBA Tour you bowl and meet the following criteria:
1. Win a Lumber Liquidators PBA Tour event
2. Finish the previous season in the top 40 from the PBA World Point Rankings and those receiving multi-season exemptions.
3. Finish as the leading point earner from one of the PBA’s seven regions
6. Finish as the top non-exempt PBA member from the PBA World Point Rankings
7. The remaining exemptions, up to 10, will be awarded at the PBA Tour Trials