News>Feature - Specialty ball brings new spin for wounded warriors
Photos
Andrew Saphore, a mechanic at the Eagle Lanes Bowling Center, demonstrates how to use the new remote-controlled bowling ball Feb. 9, 2012, at Dover Air Force Base, Del. The ball was given to the bowling alley for use by wounded service members. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Matthew Hubby)
The Eagle Lanes Bowling Center's remote-controlled bowling ball travels down the lane Feb. 9, 2012, at the Dover Air Force Base, Del. The ball was given to the bowling alley for use by wounded service members. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Matthew Hubby)
The remote controlled bowling ball and controller were designed to help wounded service members bowl. The ball's remote-control controls the spin of the ball, allowing the user to adjust its position as it travels down the lane. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Matthew Hubby)
by Senior Airman Matthew Hubby
436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
2/14/2012 - DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- The Air Force Wounded Warrior program was established to ensure wounded Airmen receive professional, individualized guidance and support to help them successfully navigate their way through the complex process of transitioning out of the Air Force and returning to civilian life. As part of the program, The Air Force Services Agency supplied bowling alleys across the Air Force with remote-controlled bowling balls for veterans who could not otherwise bowl.
The $1,500 ball's remote-control controls the spin of the ball, allowing the user to adjust the ball's path as it travels down the lane. Upkeep for the ball is minimal, only needing to be plugged in between uses to recharge and be ready for the next user.
While it is not used often at the Dover Air Force Base, Del., Eagle Lanes Bowling center, assistant manager Lorraine Padgett has a plan to change that.
"We have not had a lot of people asking to use it, but I think it is because many people do not know about it," said Padgett. "Those who are interested in using the ball just have to call or come in and reserve it. It will be available for half-hour increments for $15, but wounded service members and disabled dependants take priority, and may use the ball free of charge."
By having this new, specialized ball, the bowling alley will be able to better serve wounded veterans, meeting the needs of those who would otherwise be unable to enjoy a game of bowling.
Eagle Lanes is open from 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 8 a.m.-11 p.m. on Fridays; 9 a.m.-11 p.m. on Saturdays; and from noon-6 p.m. on Sundays. To reserve the remote-control bowling ball, call 677-3950.
