United States Bowling Congress (USBC) Market Research Report

Background

Overview

The United States Bowling Congress (USBC) is the national governing body for ten-pin bowling in the United States, recognized by the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC). Established on January 1, 2005, through the merger of the American Bowling Congress (ABC), Women's International Bowling Congress (WIBC), Young American Bowling Alliance (YABA), and USA Bowling, the USBC serves approximately 1 million members across the nation.

Mission and Vision

Mission: To provide services, resources, and standards for the sport of bowling.

Vision: To continue being the leading authority in the sport, servicing the needs of bowling.

Industry Significance

As the national governing body, the USBC plays a pivotal role in promoting and regulating ten-pin bowling, ensuring fair play, and fostering the sport's growth and development across the United States.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Develop and promote interest and participation in the sport of bowling.

Oversee competitions and provide programs and services to its membership.

Administer scholarship programs for youth bowlers.

Areas of Specialization

Standardization of rules and regulations.

Conducting national and international competitions.

Providing resources and support for local and state associations.

Key Technologies Utilized

BowlTV: A streaming platform for live coverage of bowling events.

BOWL.com: The official website offering resources, news, and information for bowlers.

Primary Markets Targeted

Amateur adult and youth bowlers across the United States.

Local and state bowling associations.

Bowling centers and proprietors.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

As a non-profit organization, the USBC's funding primarily comes from membership dues, tournament entry fees, merchandise sales, and sponsorships.

Recent Financial Performance

2024 Revenue: $44,187,538

2024 Expenses: $49,881,987

Total Assets: $148,495,944

Number of Employees: 117

Utilization of Capital

The USBC allocates its funds towards organizing national and international competitions, developing programs for bowlers of all ages, maintaining and enhancing its technological platforms, and supporting local and state associations.

Pipeline Development

Key Programs and Initiatives

Team USA Trials: Annual events to select the national team representing the U.S. in international competitions.

USBC Open Championships: The largest participation sporting event in the world, attracting thousands of bowlers annually.

Youth Development Programs: Initiatives aimed at fostering young talent and promoting the sport among youth.

Anticipated Milestones

2026 Team USA Trials: Scheduled for January 2–7, 2026, at the Gold Coast Bowling Center in Las Vegas.

2025 USBC Open Championships: Held from March to July 2025, attracting over 58,000 bowlers and generating approximately $150 million for the local economy in Baton Rouge.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

BowlTV: A streaming service providing live coverage of bowling events, enhancing accessibility and engagement for fans and participants.

BOWL.com: The official website offering resources, news, and information for bowlers, serving as a central hub for the bowling community.

Significant Scientific Methods

Research and Development: The USBC conducts ongoing research to examine how key technical factors impact the sport of bowling, ensuring the integrity and advancement of the game.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

Chad Murphy: Executive Director of the USBC, overseeing the organization's operations and strategic direction.

Professional Backgrounds

Chad Murphy: With extensive experience in sports administration, Murphy has been instrumental in leading the USBC and implementing initiatives to promote and develop the sport of bowling.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The bowling industry in the United States is substantial, with over 67 million people participating in the sport annually. The USBC, along with other organizations like the Bowling Proprietors' Association of America (BPAA), plays a significant role in promoting and supporting the sport.

Competitor Analysis

Bowling Proprietors' Association of America (BPAA): A key organization supporting bowling centers and proprietors, offering group purchasing programs, business seminars, and legislative representation.

Professional Bowlers Association (PBA): The major sanctioning body for professional ten-pin bowling in the U.S., organizing the PBA Tour and other professional events.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

The USBC collaborates with various organizations, including the BPAA and PBA, to promote the sport, organize events, and support bowlers at all levels.

Operational Insights

Strategic Considerations

The USBC's strategic focus on standardization, competition organization, and member support positions it as a central authority in the bowling industry. Its collaborations with organizations like the BPAA and PBA enhance its ability to promote and develop the sport effectively.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Future Business Directions

Youth Engagement: Expanding programs to attract and develop young bowlers, ensuring the sport's future growth.

Technological Advancements: Enhancing digital platforms like BowlTV and BOWL.com to increase accessibility and engagement.

International Expansion: Strengthening the presence of Team USA in international competitions to elevate the sport's global profile.

Opportunities for Expansion

The USBC has opportunities to expand its reach by increasing participation in youth programs, enhancing its digital presence, and fostering international collaborations to promote bowling worldwide.