DU QUOIN - Bowling is suddenly "retro."

Which means it's destined to become "cool" with the young crowd.

In an attempt to reintroduce a new generation to an old sport - and offer an alternative activity for area school physical education programs - one Southern Illinois bowling alley is offering "Bowler's Ed."

Yes, Bowler's Ed.

Dixie Travelstead, owner of Ten Pin Alley, said the program was created by teachers and professional bowlers through the Bowling Proprietors Association of America. She'll host a meeting at her Du Quoin alley at 6 p.m. today to introduce the program to interested teachers and school officials.

"In the '70's and '80's, bowling was huge, but everybody was in leagues so there were not a lot of casual bowlers," Travelstead said. "There is a whole generation that hasn't had much exposure to bowling and we're trying to do something about that. This is an awesome program."

The Bowler's Ed program is actually a specialized curriculum that can be taught over a few short weeks as part of a physical education class program. There are all sorts of activities and games included in the plan. For example, kids learn how to set up a bowling lane and learn calisthenics related to the sport. There are handouts, a video, quiz options and much more.

Peggy Tolliver, a long-time area educator, is coordinating the new Bowler's Ed program.

Travelstead said there's even a kit she can purchase that emulates a bowling lane, and if there's sufficient interest among schools she will buy one or more kits for loan to learning facilities. Schools can end their bowling unit with a trip to a bowling alley, but that's optional, Travelstead said.

She's giving away coupon booklets at completion of the curriculum, in case participating youth want to come on their own or with their families.

"I'm committed to have a youth bowling program," Travelstead said. "It's one of the only sports where kids, parents, grandparents and everybody else can participate together and have a great time."

Ten Pin is also offering youth bowling leagues and the "Coach it Up" program where the center provides novice bowlers with basic bowling help. Travelstead said her goal is to help local schools offer bowling as an Illinois State High School Association sport too. She said the bowling industry provides millions of dollars in college scholarships annually.

Mike Imes, youth director for St. Clair Bowl in Fairview heights and Southern Illinois Representative of the BPA is serving as coordinator for the Bowler's Ed project in Southern Illinois. Anyone interested in participating may contact him at (618) 632-2400.

Ross Cottom Lanes in Harrisburg is also attempting to put together a program. Their coordinator is Doug Cottom, (618) 253-8417.

Anyone interested in participating in or obtaining more information about the Bowler's Ed program may contact Travelstead at (618) 542-4499.

mathis5@hcis.net

618-357-8391