As a bowler, our worst fears have officially been realized. All bowling centers in the NE are closed indefinitely. No league. No action. No practice. No buried 10s. No Greek churches. No #cellycam splits. Nothing. What we're left with is video games, Netflix and old fashioned conversations around the dinner table. And while this may seem appealing to some, it doesn't to the bowlers who long to get back on the lanes and throw Phaze III's and Nuclear Cell's and Uppercuts at the rack.
Listen, we all understand that our health and well being is more important than bowling. And we can all comprehend the necessity of the measures being taken in order to alleviate the consequences of this virus. What's happening now MUST happen so we can return to the sport that we all love in as little time as possible. But the question is, just how long is that going to be?
Unfortunately there really is no answer to that question. While it seems that most bowling alleys are being required to stay closed for two weeks, is that really the amount of time it'll take to get this thing under control? What can really change in two weeks? And if the rate at which the virus continues to spread is increased or even sustained, then who's to say this won't go on for months?
If we do stay home, it's inevitable that the spread will mitigate, but when will the powers that be conclude that that point has been reached? And if that point is indeed in a few months, how many bowling centers will be forced out of business? I spoke with two GMs today and both agreed that if this lasts up to 8 weeks or longer, their centers will certainly be forced to close.
So many questions, so few answers. I guess all we really can do is wait and see. In the meantime, enjoy your families. Enjoy the video games. Enjoy sleeping late. Because bowling isn't going anywhere. Not as long as we all continue to love the sport. And before you know it, you'll be throwing your wristguard, kicking the ball return and wondering why that darn 10-pin just won't kick. It'll happen. So just be patient. And stay safe everyone!
