Here you can find a start to finish guide, from preparing to qualifying to competing at Junior Gold.
- Prior to qualifying:
- Add the Junior Gold Membership to your regular membership (can usually be done at a qualifying tournament, but better to get it out of the way)
- Practice on sport shot patterns – optional, but highly recommended.
- Get an understanding of lane play and build an arsenal of balls.
- Be sure to check out the Qualifying for Junior Gold FAQ.
- Qualify for Junior Gold:
- Enter Junior Gold Qualifying tournaments and/or leagues. The season’s qualifiers run until May 15th each year. In other words, you must earn your spot before May15th, any tournaments after that date will qualify you for the following year.
- More sport pattern practice.
- After Qualifying:
- Make Hotel arrangements (the sooner the better). Check our Junior Gold Map to plan the best area to stay.
- You should receive an email (check spam!) within a couple of weeks confirming your entry. See the “I got my spot, now what happens now?” for more info and what to do if you don’t get the email.
- Make any travel arrangements.
- Check the advancers report periodically to ensure your bowler is listed and there aren’t any problems that need to be addressed. Occasionally, the USBC needs more information or needs to correct an issue, in which case it will be specified there.
- Register for your squad. This usually opens up in January. This comes in an email from the USBC, but can also be found on the site.
- Practice! Junior Gold is a grind, be sure to be getting plenty of practice on sport patterns and increase your stamina.
- Leading up to Junior Gold
- Be sure to check out the “What should I expect at Junior Gold” FAQ“
- Review the “Logistical Tips” page for practical tips on how to prepare for and survive the week.
- Keep an eye out for the email that will have the link to your Junior Gold packet, which includes squad info and schedules. In the past it was mailed, however now it’s all online.
- If you are a sophomore, junior, or senior in high school, research some colleges that have bowling programs, and reach out to them beforehand. Almost all of the schools with programs are in attendance at the Expo and you can chat with them there. There is a lot of opportunity to bowl in college especially for females, so don’t overlook this opportunity to connect with them!
- At Junior Gold
- Make friends! This is top of the list, as it’s the one memory everyone has about Junior Gold for years after.
- Submit your ball card at the beginning of the first squad (found at the end of the competitor’s packet)
- Take one day at a time. it’s a marathon, not a sprint.
- Resist the temptation to score watch during the squads, and ignore the standings for the first three days. The standings vary wildly up until the third day. Everyone has bad squads at JG.
- Enjoy the attractions the area has to offer.
- After Junior Gold
- Sit down and review your week. List high and low points, and list areas that may be need practice. Set some realistic goals for the following years and create an action plan to make them happen.
- Stay in contact with the people you’ve met, meeting again at Junior Gold is one of the most memorable aspects.
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Last Updated on July 19, 2024 by John Voorhis