Our Organization
Honoring our history, advancing our mission and continuing a legacy of sportsmanship, fellowship and friendship.
Our History
The National Bowling Association, Inc. is a nonprofit corporation organized in August 1939 in Detroit, Michigan, for the purpose of encouraging Black bowlers to develop their skills in the game of Ten Pins.
The organization was originally known as the National Negro Bowling Association. At the time of its founding, Black bowlers and other non-Caucasian bowlers were not permitted to belong to the American Bowling Congress or the Women’s International Bowling Congress because of restrictive clauses in their constitutions.
As membership grew to include Asians, Hispanics, Native Americans and other people of color, the organization was renamed The National Bowling Association, Inc. in 1944.
TNBA actively participated in the fight for equality in bowling. In 1950, the racial restrictions were removed from the constitutions of the American Bowling Congress and Women’s International Bowling Congress. Since 1951, TNBA members have enjoyed the privilege of competing in open sanctioned leagues and tournaments.
Our Ongoing Mission
TNBA’s constitutional purpose has always been to foster and promote the game of Ten Pins among both men and women. Membership is open to all without regard to race, creed or color.
TNBA proudly stands behind its motto as a promoter of Sportsmanship, Fellowship and Friendship—ideals accomplished through organized competition and service.
Developing Young Bowlers
TNBA serves as a recruiting agency and point of entry for young bowlers who might not otherwise receive the encouragement, instruction and guidance needed to learn the game.
This training prepares young bowlers to develop essential skills and compete successfully in tournaments and competitions of their choice.
Equality in Bowling
TNBA has been a major factor in the integration of Black bowlers into the bowling world and has contributed to the movement toward equality, opportunity and democratic principles.
The relationships developed through competition and the respect earned through superior skill have helped break down unfavorable attitudes and racial barriers.
See How Far We Have Come
The National Bowling Association is more than an organization. We are a family.
TNBA is one of the largest Black-founded, Black-operated and Black-directed organizations in the country. It was instrumental in opening the doors of competition throughout the United States for people of color.
Even after full membership became available in previously restricted bowling organizations, TNBA continued because the purpose behind its founding required that its mission and legacy be preserved.
Historical Highlights
The first TNBA Annual Tournament was held in Cleveland, Ohio.
The organization was incorporated under the laws of the State of Ohio.
The organization’s name was changed to The National Bowling Association, Inc.
The Joe Blue Award for Outstanding Achievement was established in memory of one of TNBA’s organizers.
Racial restrictions were removed from the constitutions of the American Bowling Congress and Women’s International Bowling Congress.
J. Elmer Reed of Cleveland, Ohio, became the first Black bowler inducted into the American Bowling Congress Hall of Fame.
Aubrey Harrison bowled TNBA’s first 300 game in Los Angeles. Joan I. McDuffie of Chicago was elected TNBA’s first female president.
Cornell M. Jackson, Alesia A. Bryant and Margaret S. Lee formed TNBA’s first all-female Executive Cabinet.
Continued Growth
Over the years, TNBA’s growth paralleled the movement of Black families from rural areas to major metropolitan centers throughout the nation.
Diversified programming designed to meet the needs of local areas became a key part of TNBA’s structure as membership increased and the organization’s geographic reach expanded.
The motivation to join The National Bowling Association remains simple and direct: unity, strength, fellowship and the opportunity to help preserve an important legacy.
Moving Forward and Upward
TNBA membership signifies unity and strength through organization. It provides members with a sense of belonging to a dedicated, purposeful and progressive group.
Today, TNBA continues to grow as a successful organization positioned to expand its programs, increase membership and become more involved in the mainstream of American society.
TNBA is the program, but you are the members. As membership grows, TNBA’s programming and impact can grow in equal proportion.
Stand Up and Be Counted
Become involved in shaping and extending programs designed to meet the needs of amateur bowlers throughout the United States. It is not necessary to be a bowler to belong to TNBA.
Add your name to our membership rolls and help TNBA grow bigger, stronger and more effective. Involve yourself and your children in one of TNBA’s many programs, because our youth will continue the legacy.
YOU NEED TNBA AND TNBA NEEDS YOU.