AF attends International Bowl Expo

Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs

LAS VEGAS – Air Force bowling representatives learned marketing tips and how to make Air Force bowling centers more innovative during the recent Military Training Program at the 2010 International Bowl Expo here.

According to Air Force Services Agency officials, the annual expo brings together bowling professionals from around the world to collaborate and share ideas. The Air Force also provides hands-on training, certifications and educational seminars for bowling managers and coaches.

Educational topics included technology, marketing/promotions, best practices, food and beverage operations, pro shop operations, entertainment income, business planning and coaching. The expo showcased new products and recreational simulators Air Force bowling managers can introduce to their bowling centers.

“This is the one time of year when the entire industry comes together to network and share ideas,” said Don Freund, Air Force bowling program manager. “There are several ideas we can take from industry experts that open our minds on how we can better serve our Airmen and families.”

According to Mr. Freund, training was successful. The majority of attendees took interest in an advanced management course that focused on marketing and demographics. By the end of the course, bowling managers developed extensive summer plans to be implemented at their installations.

“We will continue to focus on program development, center operations and work closely with the industry experts to improve management education to benefit Airmen and their families,” Mr. Freund said.

Bowling centers already offer Airmen and families programs such as:

Hook up the Bowling: A new player development course taught by a U.S. Bowling Congress-certified coach that teaches novice bowlers the basics in the sport, bowling courtesy and rules of the game. Students leave the course with their own bowling ball and bag. Interested participants should check with their local bowling center to sign up for a class.

Summer program/specials: Every bowling center that registers receives support from the Air Force Services Agency to develop summer programs to support the wants and needs of their community. Customers can find anything from open play specials, summer leagues and/or summer youth camps. Most of these programs include bowler incentives that reward the player for participation.

For more information on what individual bowling centers offer, visit local Force Support Squadron “FSS.com” websites or visit the U.S. Air Force Services website at www.usafservices.com.