Photo by Sgt. Judith Willis A bowling ball smashes through the center of the pins resulting in a strike at Quantico Bowling Center.

‘‘There is a very big mix of players. You have civilian federal employees, sailors, active-duty and retired Marines,” said Andy Fuller, the league president for the second year in a row. ‘‘There is a lot of camaraderie among the players; they have a good time representing their commands.”

The bowling season kicked off in October and the teams are halfway finished.

‘‘We are in second place [overall],” said Joe Carson, team captain for Officer Candidates School. ‘‘We are one point away from first. I’m hopeful we are going to make it to the playoffs this year.”

Team TACO ‘‘Bell-Ringers” are holding down first position with 62 points.

With 12 lanes available at the Quantico Bowling Center, eight teams play on Tuesday and eight play on Wednesday night. Walking into the center it ought not be apparent that there was much competition happening with all the laughter and amusement going on.

‘‘It’s good for the competition,” said Carson, ‘‘It’s a break from what we do everyday.”

Those not on the league who are interested in playing should know that, ‘‘two lanes are open but it’s very limited,” said Skip Merryman, the manager. ‘‘Reservations can be made a minimum of one week in advance but it’s subject to availability.”

On Thursday nights open play ends at 6:45 p.m. to accommodate the mix league play, which is scheduled to end in May.

— Correspondent: judith.willis@usmc.mil

Bowling Information
Quantico Bowling Center 703-784-2210
Little Hall, lower level, rear entrance
2034 Barnett Ave.

Bowling center hours:
Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 3 to 9 p.m.
Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Friday from 3 to 11 p.m.
Saturday from 1 to 11 p.m.
Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m.

Lane Fees:
Military ID $2.25 game
Department of Defense ID $3 game
Civilian $3.50 game
Glo-Bowl $3.50 game

Other Fees:
Shoe rental $2
Locker rental $15⁄year non-refundable
Instruction $30⁄hour