Athens Ladies Bowling Leagues celebrate 75 years

On April 10, the ladies bowling leagues from the Hall Bar & Bowl and Memory Lanes got together at the R& J Restaurant to celebrate 75 years of sanctioned bowling in Athens.

A meal was had by all and special recognition was made to several bowlers for continuous years of bowling. Ceil Johnson has bowled consecutively without missing any season for 74 years and is still very active at 91 years of age. Luann Thurs has bowled 62 years off and on and Gloria Brodziski has bowled 62 years consecutively.

High average held in the association is by Jane Schaefer of 211. High series is held by Julie Ellenbecker with a 751. High games were by Jane Schaefer 2-300s, Julie Ellenbecker 300 and 299, Vanessa McDonell 299 and Gloria Brodziski held the High average for 17 consecutive years from 1977 to 1993.

The association has many state champions: Ceil Johnson, state seniors champion 2021; Gloria Brodziski, state senior champion 2005 and 2007 as well as 2006 state adult/youth champion; Julie Ellenbecker, state adult/ youth champion in 2005; Jane Schaefer and Julie Ellenbecker, Wisconsin state tournament doubles champions in 2002.

Since 1948 and before the association was sanctioned, there has been a team sponsored by Burger’s every year.

The association also has many Channel 7 Pinbuster championships and second and third place finishes from both bowling establishments.

In 2005, the association officially became the Athens USBC and although the group is no longer the Athens Women’s Bowling Association, they are still very active and will continue on after this 75th year.

Others recognized for years of participation were Gloria Lavicka 54, Karen Weiler 50, Vanessa McDonell 46, Sandy Koeller 45, Bonnie Brodziski 42, Jane Schaefer 41, Debbie Balz 34 and Julie Ellenbecker 34.