The Bob Jones High School Bowling Team will practice at Madison Bowling Center, 8661 U.S. 72. (PHOTO/MADISON BOWLING CENTER)

MADISON – Bowling is now on the sports roster at Bob Jones High School.

The Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) has recognized bowling as an official sport. “Bowling is sanctioned as of this year but is labeled as an ’emerging sport,’ which means they will not crown a state champion in the first year,” bowling coach Michael Hoyle said.

Hoyle teaches advanced-placement economics and psychology and early U.S. history at Bob Jones.

“Bob Jones is offering bowling as a result of it being sanctioned and will compete in 7A,” Hoyle said. At a recent organizational meeting, about 30 students show interested in participating.

Students on the bowling team must meet eligibility requirements, as prescribed by the AHSAA, Hoyle said. Students in grades 7-12 can join who meet eligibility requirements.

To-date, Sparkman and East Limestone high schools also are participating. “James Clemens High School is currently trying to organize a team. I imagine other schools will follow suit,” Hoyle said.

Bob Jones will have boys’ and girls’ bowling teams for varsity and possibly junior varsity. Team members will not be required to complete any physical training.

“Practices, at this point, will be on Mondays and Thursdays at Madison Bowling Center at 8661 U.S. 72. We will be working on fundamentals, as well as bowling for position for matches that we will compete in,” Hoyle said.

Ten other 7A high schools have committed to having a varsity bowling team as a school sport.

For more information about Bob Jones bowling, email to Hoyle at mhoyle@madisoncity.k12.al.us.