Bowlers roll gutter ball in choice to exclude
DEAR AMY: What is the "PC" way to exclude the developmentally disabled from an organized group?
I run a bowling league. Management at the bowling center where we play has informed us that our yearly contract will not be renewed unless we accept teams from local assisted-living facilities into our league.
If the league admits individuals with vastly inferior skill levels and low mental awareness of league bowling rules, that will greatly slow down the normal pace of play and frustrate many of our existing members.
A majority will likely drop out rather than take four hours to bowl three games every week.
Moving the league to another bowling center is not a practical option. Few of our current members are willing to drive 10 or more extra miles every week to another facility with different ownership. It seems we are left with a Hobson's choice -- open our membership to anyone (no matter how unqualified), or face the demise of our league. -- Bowled Over by PC-ness
DEAR BOWLED OVER: I can't provide a "PC" way for you to exclude these people, because the very notion is so unkind that the mind reels. The heart takes a hit, too.
I can think of many ways this arrangement could work for your league -- and for you as human beings.
I shared your letter with Terry Bigham, with the United States Bowling Congress (bowl.com), who suggests that most bowlers are enthusiastic about sharing the sport with anyone who wishes to play: "We believe in bowling for everyone from 3 to 103. Bowling is one of the biggest events in Special Olympics, and wheelchair bowling is hugely popular.
"Bowling is supposed to be a fun sport for anyone. Bowlers are very charitable; they have donated over $50 million dollars to organizations ranging from local charities to veterans organizations to 'Bowl for the Cure' (supporting breast cancer research). They're a nice, big, fun family."
Management's new rules might be surprising, but it is the bowling center's right to attach new requirements to future contracts. It is your right to take your business elsewhere.
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