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Tips for Conducting Safe Training Sessions
Though the risks can be few, coaches have a responsibility to ensure that athletes know, understand and appreciate the risks of bowling. The safety and well-being of athletes are the coaches' primary concerns. Bowling is not a dangerous sport, but accidents (smashed thumbs, toes, etc.) do occur when coaches forget to take safety precautions. It is the head coach's responsibility to minimize the occurrence of injuries by providing safe conditions and proper instruction. Work with the bowling center management to insure safe conditions and make necessary adjustments.
The Facility
- The seating/scorekeeping area should be clean and free of any food or drinks. Street shoes, outdoor clothing, bowling bags, etc., should be placed in an appropriate location. The floor should be especially clean and dry.
- The approach area should be clean, dry and free from any debris. Lanes, foul lights, ball return and scorekeeping equipment should all be turned on.
- There is easy access to bathrooms, telephone, water and first-aid kits. Ensure wheelchair accessibility if needed.
- First-aid kit is available and restocked with supplies as necessary.
Supervision
- There is at least a 1-3 coach/assistant to athlete ratio present at all times; preferably, coaches with bowling coach's certification; and at least one person with basic first-aid knowledge.
- Up-to-date copies of the athletes’ medical forms are on-site.
- Provide emergency procedures. Train all athletes and coaches in these procedures.
Equipment and Clothing
- Bowlers are properly fit with appropriate bowling attire and shoes. No hats, combs, portable tape players, sunglasses, etc., need to be worn or carried on to the approach.
- If using a house ball, ensure the ball is properly fit according to weight and grip.
- Any adaptive equipment, such as ramps, "push sticks" or other types of devices, is clean and in working condition.
Before Entering Bowling Area
- Establish clear rules for behavior at your first practice and enforce them.
- Keep your hands to yourself.
- Listen to the coach.
- Ask the coach before you leave the bowling lane.
- Bowlers are well trained on bowler's etiquette and safety. For example, bowler to the right lane has right of way; wait until bowler on each side has completed roll and returned to ball-return area before stepping on to approach; be prompt and ready to bowl on your turn, etc.
- Street shoes and outdoor clothing are kept in the appropriate place, away from the scorekeeping/bowlers’ seating area. No food or drinks are allowed in the pit area.
- Athletes have properly warmed-up and completed a stretching routine.
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