There are two types of high school bowling programs:

Intramural—students from the same school form a club to bowl after school.  Only students of the same school compete in a regular league format.  Also known as a Farm Club.

Interscholastic—students form teams that represent their high school and compete against other high schools.  This is usually called a “varsity” team. (Technically the designation of “varsity” means sports that are sanctioned through the Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA).  However, non-sanctioned interscholastic teams are often referred to as varsity teams, as we do here in AZ.)

Starting an Intramural Program

• Approach the Activities Director or the Principal of the High School.  Also investigate and follow the process to start a new club through the student government
• All school-recognized extracurricular activities must have a school sponsor (a member of the school faculty or administration)
• Contact AZ High School Bowling, Phoenix Division Director, Kris Zahn at 480-663-3128 or kris@kriszahn.com to take advantage of assistance provided
• Meet with the bowling center that is the closest to the school, especially if transportation is an issue. 
• School administrators prefer that the students travel as little distance as possible to any off campus activity.
• Request a written agreement for
• Specific day and time for the program
• Number of weeks being bowled
• Cost for the number of games bowled (suggest three games)
• Cost of shoe rental
• The number of players required per lane (recommend three, maximum of four to enable completion of games before evening leagues)
• Availability of and any charges for league record keeping service
• Availability of volunteer coaching
• Advertise to the student body
• Hold organizational meeting at school
• Create rules (link for template)
• Elect officers and team captains
• Determine price, prize funds, awards
• Determine end of year party format
• Bowl and have fun!

Starting an Interscholastic Program 

• Approach the Athletic Director, Activities Director or the Principal of the High School.  Also investigate and follow the process to start a new club through the student government
• All school-recognized extracurricular activities must have a school sponsor (a member of the school faculty or administration)
• Determine transportation requirements
• Contact AZ High School Bowling, Phoenix Division Director, Kris Zahn at 480-663-3128 or kris@kriszahn.com to take advantage of free assistance provided to:
• Be assigned to a bowling center
• Request a volunteer bowling coach
• Become part of a conference and schedule meets
• Receive a copy of the rules of competition and practice
• Available on www.azhighschoolbowling.com
• Advertise to the student body
• Hold organizational meeting at school
• Phoenix Director and Conference Coordinator to attend for orientation