The world of professional bowling boasts a captivating history filled with incredible athletes, and the top female bowlers have undoubtedly made their distinct mark on the sport.
Throughout the years, these athletes have showcased their vast skillsets, determination, and persistence to rise above the competition and secure their spots as the best bowlers in their field.
This article takes a deep dive into the top five female bowlers of all time, highlighting their accomplishments and impact on the sport.
From dominating the lanes in local and national championships to setting impressive records, these women have proven themselves time and time again as elite competitors.
Along the way, they have broken barriers, inspired numerous fans, and paved the path for future generations of talented female bowlers to pursue their dreams.
In acknowledging the top five best female bowlers of all time, this article carefully examines their respective journeys to greatness.
As a testament to their hard work and dedication, these remarkable women have forever etched their names into the annals of bowling history. So, without further ado, let’s unveil these legendary athletes and their incredible achievements.
Top 5 Best Female Bowlers Of All Time
Lisa Wagner
Lisa Wagner is considered one of the best female bowlers in history. With 32 professional titles to her name, she has proven her skill on the lanes time and time again.
Wagner began her professional career in 1980 and quickly made an impact by winning the Rookie of the Year award. In 1996 and 1998, she was awarded the Bowler of the Year title for her outstanding achievements in the sport.
Patty Costello
Patty Costello holds an impressive record of 25 professional titles throughout her career, making her one of the top female bowlers of all time. Active during the 1970s and early 1980s, Costello became the first woman to achieve 20 titles and was inducted into the United States Bowling Congress (USBC) Hall of Fame in 1989 for her remarkable accomplishments.
Robin Romeo
Robin Romeo boasts 17 professional titles and a passionate commitment to the game, earning her a spot among the best female bowlers of all time. One of her most notable achievements was winning the triple crown, with major titles, in the USBC Queens, the Women’s U.S. Open, and the Robi’s Nest PWBA Players Championship. Romeo has also been inducted into the USBC Hall of Fame and continues to contribute to the sport as a coach and mentor.
Aleta Sill
Regarded as one of the best female bowlers, Aleta Sill holds an impressive 31 titles throughout her incredible career. Sill won multiple titles, two USBC Queens titles and one Women’s U.S. Open, establishing herself as a force to be reckoned with on the lanes. In 1999, she was inducted into the USBC Hall of Fame, and her powerful style continues to inspire and influence future generations of bowlers.
Liz Johnson
Liz Johnson is a name that has become synonymous with excellence in bowling. Over her illustrious career, she has amassed 24 professional titles, with ten major championships under her belt. Johnson has also represented Team USA in international competitions, bringing home medals and accolades consistently. Inducted into the USBC Hall of Fame in 2015, her talent and determination make her one of the greatest female bowlers in history.
Career Achievements And Accolades
Liz Johnson
Liz Johnson is a legendary female bowler who has earned numerous accolades throughout her career. She has won:
- 24 PWBA Titles
- 10-time PWBA Player of the Year
- Bowler of the Decade (2000-2009)
- Triple Crown winner (one of only three women to achieve this)
- Inducted into the USBC Hall of Fame in 2015
Kelly Kulick
Kelly Kulick, another exceptional female first bowler of all time, has also accomplished significant milestones:
- 6 PWBA Titles, including a Triple Crown
- PWBA Player of the Year in 2010
- First woman to win a Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour title
- Member of the USBC Hall of Fame since 2019
Wendy Macpherson
Wendy Macpherson’s extraordinary career includes:
- 20 PWBA Titles
- 5-time PWBA Player of the Year
- Bowling World’s Bowler of the Decade (1990-1999)
- Inducted into the USBC Hall of Fame in 2001
Aleta Sill
Aleta Sill’s astounding bowling career features:
- 31 PWBA Titles
- 2-time PWBA Player of the Year
- Bowler of the Decade (1980-1989)
- Triple Crown winner
- Enshrined in the USBC Hall of Fame in 1991
Carolyn Dorin-Ballard
Finally, Carolyn Dorin-Ballard’s achievements in her bowling career are numerous:
- 20 PWBA Titles
- 3-time PWBA Player of the Year
- Bowler of the Decade (1990-1999)
- Inducted into the USBC Hall of Fame in 2008
Major Tournaments And Titles
The best female bowlers have achieved most of their recognition from their outstanding performances in various prestigious tournaments. These events are a true testament to their skill and dedication to the sport.
The PWBA Tour is a prominent tour for professional female bowlers, including the coveted PWBA Championship. The top female bowlers have frequently performed exceptionally well in this prestigious event.
The US Open is another significant tournament for female bowlers, with the best athletes often securing their spots at the top of the leaderboards. This competition has a rich history, showcasing strong competitors from around the bowling world, for many years.
The U.S. Women’s Open is a well-regarded championship that highlights the best female bowlers on an international stage. Many of the athletes solidify their legacy in this tournament by consistently displaying extraordinary skills.
Lastly, the USBC Queens is a major event for female bowlers and is usually conducted annually, hosting the most skillful players in the sport. The winners of these tournaments have truly demonstrated their expertise and perseverance.
| Tournament |
Notable Importance |
| PWBA Tour |
Prestigious tour for professional female bowlers |
| PWBA Championship |
Coveted championship in the PWBA Tour |
| US Open |
Significant tournament for female bowlers |
| U.S. Women’s Open |
Showcases the best female bowlers on an international stage |
| USBC Queens |
Annual event featuring the most skillful female bowlers |
In conclusion, these major tournaments and titles highlight the top five female bowlers of all time, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure and continually achieve greatness.
Pioneers And Hall Of Famers
Pat Costello, one of the most successful female bowlers of all time, has claimed numerous championship titles throughout her career. She held twenty-five earnings records in the 1980s and was inducted into the WIBC (Women’s International Bowling Congress) Hall of Fame in 1989 and the Professional Women’s Bowling Association (PWBA) Hall of Fame in 1995.
Another remarkable woman bowler is Carolyn Dorin-Ballard, known for her record-breaking achievements on and off the lanes. Dorin-Ballard earned 20 professional titles, including three US Women’s Opens, and she was inducted into the United States Bowling Congress (USBC) Hall of Fame in 2006.
Dorothy Fothergill, a prolific bowler during the 1940s and ’50s, won several national team championships, earning her a spot in the WIBC Hall of Fame in 1959. With her excellent sportsmanship and determination, Fothergill inspired future generations of female bowlers.
Millie Ignizio’s incredible bowling talent led her to many accomplishments during her career, which included a record-setting 57-match winning streak in 1970. She has been inducted into both the WIBC Hall of Fame and the PWBA Hall of Fame for her numerous achievements.
Tish Johnson, a legendary female left-handed bowler, captured 25 career titles and won over fourteen titles in eight years (1983-1990). She earned her induction into the USBC Hall of Fame in 2007 and the PWBA Hall of Fame in 1996, celebrating her contributions to the sport.
The Senior Queens is a prestigious tournament designed for the top women bowlers aged 50 and above. This event showcases the incredible talent and longevity of female bowlers young age over, proving that age is not a limiting factor in the sport. Many of the bowlers mentioned earlier have also competed and excelled in the Senior Queens, demonstrating their exceptional skills and determination to succeed at every level.
Impact On The Sport And Future Stars
The top female bowlers of all time have undeniably made a lasting impression on the sport. Their exceptional performances and dedication to the game have inspired a new generation of female bowlers, helping to grow women’s participation in professional bowling competitions globally.
Many of these iconic bowlers have competed and left their mark in leagues like the Women’s Professional Bowlers Association (WPBA). The WPBA has played a crucial role in supporting and advocating for women’s professional bowling. It continues to encourage more women to join the sport and provides a platform for promising talents to compete at the highest level.
The International Bowling Museum, located in Arlington, Texas, highlights the rich history and contributions of these female bowlers to the sport.
By showcasing their achievements, the museum serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring bowlers and helps to raise awareness about the significant impact women have had on the world of professional bowling.
Some of the noteworthy initiatives designed to groom future bowling stars include:
- Development and training programs to identify and support talented youth by the WPBA and other national and international bowling associations
- Local and regional competitions that act as stepping stones to higher-level events, enabling young bowlers to gain experience and prove their skills
- Collaborative efforts by the bowling industry and associations to actively promote the sport, attract more young people to the game, and help them realize the numerous opportunities available in professional bowling
As a result of these efforts, the future of women’s professional titles and women’s bowling is undoubtedly bright, with countless young bowlers showing immense potential to create their legacy in the sport.
Bowling Techniques And Performance Factors
In the world of bowling, there are some key techniques and factors that impact performance. One of the most critical aspects is the bowler’s ability to consistently deliver the ball with both power and accuracy. This ensures that the ball strikes the pins at the optimal points and has the desired effect.
In bowling, the swing plays an important role in determining a player’s performance.
A smooth, consistent swing allows for greater accuracy when targeting the pins. Many of the top female bowlers in history mastered their swing, enabling them to convert a high percentage of their shots into strikes.
Another contributing factor is the choice of ball.
A bowler’s preference for a particular type of ball can significantly influence their overall success in the sport.
The ball’s weight, size, coverstock, and core design are important aspects that must be considered to achieve a perfect game. Some noteworthy examples are:
- Reactive resin balls: Known for their powerful hook potential and smooth mid-lane reactions.
- Urethane balls: Offer greater control and predictability, ideal for players looking for consistency over striking power.
- Plastic balls: High durability and low cost, ideal for beginners and often used as spare balls.
When it comes to accuracy, the ability to read lane conditions and adjust the release, trajectory, and targeting accordingly is vital.
Many of the best female bowlers demonstrated impeccable skills in interpreting lane patterns and adapting their shots to maximize their strikes.
In addition to physical techniques, mental resilience is another crucial factor in a bowler’s performance. Navigating high-pressure situations with calmness and focus is the mark of a true champion. Top bowlers have shown unwavering determination and confidence, pushing them forward in their pursuit of perfection.
Moreover, achieving a perfect game requires a bowler to strike all ten pins with each delivery, totaling 12 strikes in a row. This incredibly challenging feat is an indication of the bowler’s mastery of technique and mental prowess. Throughout history, the best female bowlers have come close to or achieved this elusive goal, proving their exceptional skill in the sport.
