first place will still earn themselves a trophy , everyone who participates in the league will walk away with their choice of a personal ball , bowling bag , or bowling shoes , and can earn the other prizes in future runs of the league .
Marta stated that the alley has even implemented a system to allow players to trade these balls , which are the same type as those often available for public use , in for more advanced performance balls by paying the difference between the prices of the two .
The league has also served as a stepping stone for these new players to try their luck with something more ; Marta noted that a few rounds of the Monday Night League have occasionally motivated players into moving their way up to some of the alley ’ s more advanced competitions .
“ As individuals come in--whether they ’ re youth , young adults , or even older adults-- they begin to start feeling like they ’ re getting better at bowling ,” Marta said . “ So they eventually say , ‘ Hey , I ’ m ready to jump from this fun league ,’ so to say , ‘ to a more competitive league .’”
However , the competition has also remained a great way for bowlers of all skill levels--including a handful from the higher levels of play--to have fun with the sport with their friends , family and community .
And with the latest run of the league having just started , the league ’ s bowlers taking up their balls May 20 to play all through the summer , it ’ s clear Tift County Lanes has no intention of stopping that fun any time soon .
JULY 2024 | TiftonScene 13