Bowling is a game sport where a heavy ball is used to knock down pins standing on the other side of the lane. For a long time, it has been considered a pastime, as the simple rules make it accessible to everyone. It is hard to find a person who has never once in his life not competed in knocking out pins with a ball. However, on the other hand, everything is not so simple – professional bowling requires thorough preparation and regular training.
The game is very popular in the United States, which leads the world in the number of lanes per capita, followed by the British Commonwealth, Scandinavia, and Japan. In total, there were about 10 million regular bowlers in 120 countries as of 2007. Players unite in clubs, clubs — in various associations, which, in turn, organize national and international tournaments.
The largest and most authoritative association is the International Bowling Federation, which unites federations of 134 countries. The Federation is recognized as the official regulator and sets the rules and equipment standards for 10- and 9-pin bowling around the world.
At the moment, as in any other sport, bowling has official tournaments and there are large organizations to support this sport. It is about bowling associations and organizations that we wanted to talk about today. More precisely, from the late nineteenth century. Below you will find a list of the most prominent emblems from the sport.
Bowling Federation of Africa (BFA)
The visual identity of the Bowling Federation of Africa is very bright and juicy. The badge is based on two graphical elements and strict bold lettering in black and red. The main part of the logo is a stylized silhouette of the African continent drawn in green orange and red strokes, making up a a sliced geometric figure. The continent is overlapped by another image — a white bowling pin with two light red stripes and a glossy dark burgundy ball on its right. As for the lettering, the full name of the federation is executed in a slightly extended geometric sans-serif reface, in black, while the BFA abbreviation is set in a larger size and uses a dark shade of red for its characters.
European Bowling Federation (EBF)
The logo of the European Bowling Federation is executed in a stable and strict color palette, consisting of a clean medium-light shade of blue, black, and gray. The blue emblem of the organization depicts three flat pin silhouettes drawn in blue and outlined in black, overlapped by a circle, the ball. At the overlapping space, the shades get brighter. On the right from the graphical part, there is a two-styled lettering — the enlarged black “EBF” abbreviation on top, and a three-leveled “European Bowling Federation” in gray small capitals of a geometric sans-serif typeface.
International Bowling Federation (IBF)
The International Bowling Federation logo is different from the others on the list due to the contrasting color scheme and the use of an extremely progressive design approach. The badge of the organization is composed of a massive stylized abbreviation as an emblem and a cool designer lettering in a fancy sans-serif typeface with the shortened bars of some characters and small cutouts. The emblem of the International Bowling Federation, executed in a black, white, and coral-red color palette, has the first and third characters enlarged and drawn with stencils, while the middle “B” is made of negative space in between the “I” and “F”.
International Gay Bowling Organization (IGBO)
The visual identity of the International Gay Bowling Organization is bright and bold, with minimum details and massive shapes. It’s based on an enlarged IGBO abbreviation, written in a juicy electric shade of blue over a transparent background. The inscription is executed in a softened modern sans-serif typeface with thick bars and rounded cuts of the lines. The only graphical element of the badge is inscribed into the lettering — it is the letter “O” stylized as a solid blue bowling ball with three black circles on it, depicting the finger holes. The minimalistic approach to design elevates the IGBO badge and makes it stand out in the list of competitors.
Junior Gold Bowling Championships
The Junior Gold Bowling visual identity is executed in a patriotic blue, red, and white color palette and contains all the main symbols from the national flag of the United States, the stars, and the stripes. The emblem of the championships is a stylized five-pointed star in a double blue and white outline and a white bowling pin in the center, dividing the star into two segments — a solid blue on the left and a striped red and white on the right. The star is accompanied by a two-leveled inscription in a slightly slanted geometric sans-serif typeface, in blue. The whole composition is underlined by two long and thin arched strokes in red and blue.
National Bowling League (NBL)
The logo of the National Bowling League is based on the image, known in all corners of the world — the NBA badge. There are just a few differences. First of all, unlike the NBA one, the NBL logo is set horizontally. Secondly, the name of the league is written under the graphical part, and executed in an elegant and sharp serif typeface. Thirdly, there is no abbreviation in the composition. And last, but not least — the central element of the badge is a white silhouette of a bowling player, with his arm stretched in a ball throwing. Both the blue and red halves of the logo have some gradients, with the shades going slightly darker to the borders of the badge.
Pan American Bowling Confederation (PABCON)
The visual identity of the Pan American Bowling Confederation looks very fresh and stylish. It is composed of a sleek colorful emblem, placed against a transparent background on the left from the clean and distinctive two-leveled lettering in black. The lettering features its upper line written in medium-weight bars, while the bottom, “Bowling”, part uses bolder lines. As for the emblem, it is an abstract silhouette of a bowling player, made of smooth wavy lines in green, black, red, blue, and yellow. All fragments of the emblem are placed at a slight distance from each other, with thin white lines adding air and lightness to the composition.
Professional Bowlers Association (PBA)
The Professional Bowlers Association logo is all about stability and distinction. The badge of the organization is composed of a strict black abbreviation and a minimalistic emblem in red and white. The enlarged “PBA” lettering is executed in a modern geometric sans-serif typeface with clean contours and straight cuts of the bars. As for the emblem of the association, it is a solid red roundel with the white silhouette of a bowler throwing a ball. The opened hands of the sportsman are stretched diagonally, which creates an interesting geometry at the bottom of the circle. Its top part contains a white “Est. 1958” datemark as a symbol of the organization’s heritage.
United States Bowling Congress (USBC)
The visual identity of the United States Bowling Congress is based on the patriotic American symbols — the tricolor, the five-pointed star, and the red and white stripes. The star emblem of the Congress is placed on the top line of the composition and has a white bowling pin with a thin red stripe, vertically dividing it into two parts — the solid blue on the left and the red and white on the right. Under the emblem, there is an enlarged USBC abbreviation in a slanted bold sans-serif typeface with the “US” part in red and the “BC” in blue. The abbreviation is accompanied by a blue “United States Bowling Congress” tagline in a traditional sand-serif.
Young American Bowling Alliance (YABA)
The logo of the Young American Bowling Alliance is set in a bright and delightful color palette, composed of intense and vivid shades of red, blue, and white. The badge of the organization is a white roundel with a wide frame in a blue and red outline. The full name of the alliance is written around the perimeter of the frame in medium-weight red capitals of a classic sans-serif typeface. As for the central part of the medallion, it is decorated by a bowling pin with the stylized “YABA” abbreviation inscribed into a composition — the red “Y” and “B” on top, on the sides from the pin, and the blue “B” and “A” inside it, at the bottom.
Mediterranean Bowling Confederation (MBC)
The Mediterranean Bowling Confederation (MBC) logo features a sleek and modern design that captures the essence of the sport. The primary element is a large, shiny blue bowling ball positioned at the top of the logo, complete with finger holes to signify its purpose. Beneath the ball, stylized waves in varying shades of blue create a sense of motion and fluidity, representing the Mediterranean Sea. The acronym “MBC” is prominently displayed in bold, white letters with a slight metallic sheen, giving it a polished and professional look. Below the acronym, the full name “Mediterranean Bowling Confederation” is written in a clean, sans-serif font, ensuring readability and clarity. The overall design combines elements of sport and geography, emphasizing the organization’s regional focus and commitment to excellence in bowling.
The National Bowling Association (TNBA)
The National Bowling Association (TNBA) logo is rich in symbolism and heritage. It features a shield-shaped design with a deep blue background, reminiscent of traditional emblems of authority and community. At the top of the shield, a golden eagle with outstretched wings signifies strength and freedom, anchoring the association’s values. The eagle is perched above a set of stylized white bowling pins arranged in a symmetrical formation, symbolizing the sport at the heart of the organization. A single black bowling ball is positioned at the base of the pins, adding contrast and focus. Encircling the emblem are the words “SPORTSMANSHIP • FELLOWSHIP • FRIENDSHIP,” emphasizing the core values of the TNBA. The founding year “1939” is split on either side of the eagle, marking its long-standing history. The overall design reflects a sense of tradition, community, and dedication to the sport of bowling.
United States Bowling Academy
The United States Bowling Academy logo is a vibrant and patriotic representation of the institution. The circular logo features a starry blue background, evoking the American flag and the spirit of excellence. At the center, a stylized bowling pin is overlapped by a bright blue star, signifying aspiration and achievement in the sport. Surrounding the central elements, the name “United States Bowling Academy” is written in bold, white serif letters, ensuring visibility and prominence. Below the text, a dynamic red and white striped banner sweeps across the lower portion of the logo, adding a sense of motion and energy. The use of national colors and symbols underscores the Academy’s commitment to fostering talent and promoting the sport across the country.
National Collegiate Bowling Coaches Association (NCBCA)
The National Collegiate Bowling Coaches Association (NCBCA) logo is dynamic and collegiate, reflecting its focus on academic and athletic excellence. The design features a central image of white bowling pins arranged in a classic triangular formation, ready for a strike. Behind the pins, a bright red bowling ball is poised to roll, symbolizing action and competition. The acronym “NCBCA” is prominently displayed in bold, white block letters with a thick navy blue outline, creating a strong and authoritative presence. Beneath the acronym, the full name “National Collegiate Bowling Coaches Association” is written in a clean, sans-serif font, ensuring clarity and professionalism. The overall design conveys a sense of movement, teamwork, and dedication to advancing collegiate bowling.
Commonwealth Tenpin Bowling Federation (CTBF)
The Commonwealth Tenpin Bowling Federation (CTBF) logo is sleek and modern, reflecting the organization’s global reach and contemporary approach. The primary element is a stylized, circular graphic that represents a bowling ball in motion. The design features a gradient blue ring with light blue highlights, creating a sense of depth and movement. Inside the ring, three smaller circles suggest the finger holes of a bowling ball, reinforcing the sport’s identity. To the right of the graphic, the acronym “CTBF” is displayed in bold, black serif letters, with the “f” in a lighter blue to add visual interest and balance. Below the acronym, the full name “Commonwealth Tenpin Bowling Federation” is written in a clean, sans-serif font, ensuring readability and sophistication. The overall design combines elements of precision, professionalism, and international collaboration.
Bowling Proprietors’ Association of America (BPAA)
The Bowling Proprietors’ Association of America (BPAA) logo is bold and dynamic, reflecting the organization’s vibrant community and industry leadership. The design features a stylized, navy blue bowling ball with three finger holes, positioned to the right of the acronym “BPAA.” The acronym itself is written in a robust, uppercase sans-serif font, with a strong navy blue color that conveys stability and authority. Beneath the bowling ball, a sweeping red arc adds a sense of motion and excitement, reminiscent of a ball rolling down the lane. This red arc also features subtle white streaks, suggesting speed and precision. The overall design is clean and modern, emphasizing the BPAA’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the bowling industry.
Ohio Bowling Conference (OBC)
The Ohio Bowling Conference (OBC) logo is patriotic and state-focused, representing the organization’s dedication to the sport within Ohio. The design features the acronym “OBC” in bold, uppercase letters, each filled with unique elements that symbolize the state. The “O” contains a silhouette of the state of Ohio in red, emphasizing its regional focus. The “B” is filled with the Ohio state flag’s design, incorporating the iconic red, white, and blue elements, along with the circular “O” symbol from the flag. The “C” features red and white stripes, completing the cohesive, patriotic theme. Beneath the acronym, the full name “Ohio Bowling Conference” is written in a clean, sans-serif font, ensuring clarity and prominence. The overall design is bold, state-centric, and visually striking, highlighting the organization’s pride and commitment to the sport of bowling in Ohio.
Southern Bowling Congress (SBC)
The Southern Bowling Congress (SBC) logo is a representation of regional pride and unity in the sport of bowling. The design features two crossed flags at its center: the American flag on the left and the red SBC flag on the right. The SBC flag includes a white wreath encircling the initials “SBC,” symbolizing achievement and honor. Surrounding the flags, the organization’s name “Southern Bowling Congress” is written in a circular arrangement in blue, uppercase letters, with a blue star at the bottom to complete the circle. Below the crossed flags, the acronym “USBC” is prominently displayed in red and blue, indicating affiliation with the United States Bowling Congress. The logo’s clean lines and patriotic colors underscore the SBC’s commitment to promoting bowling within the southern region of the United States.
International Deaf Bowls Federation (IDBF)
The International Deaf Bowls Federation (IDBF) logo is distinctive and meaningful, reflecting the organization’s dedication to inclusivity in the sport. The design features a green, grid-like representation of a globe, indicating the federation’s international reach. At the center of the globe are two black lawn bowls and a white jack, symbolizing the sport of bowls. The federation’s name, “International Deaf Bowls Federation,” arches along the top of the globe in white, uppercase letters set against a green background. At the bottom, the words “Established 1993” are prominently displayed, marking the year of the federation’s founding. The overall design conveys a sense of global community and commitment to providing opportunities for deaf athletes in the sport of bowls.
International Seniors Bowling Tour (ISBT)
The International Seniors Bowling Tour (ISBT) logo is dynamic and celebratory, capturing the essence of competitive senior bowling. The logo features a black silhouette of a bowler in action, mid-throw, with a red bowling ball in hand. This figure is positioned to the left, creating a sense of motion and excitement. A curved ribbon adorned with various international flags arcs behind the bowler, symbolizing the tour’s global nature. To the right of the bowler, the acronym “ISBT” is displayed in bold, orange, uppercase letters with a modern, italicized font, adding to the dynamic feel. Below, the full name “International Seniors Bowling Tour” is written in a matching orange, completing the cohesive and energetic design.
International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame
The International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame logo is sophisticated and modern, reflecting the institution’s role in preserving and celebrating bowling history. The design features the name “INTERNATIONAL BOWLING MUSEUM & HALL OF FAME” in a stacked format, with “INTERNATIONAL” in uppercase black letters and “BOWLING MUSEUM” in bold, black uppercase letters. The word “BOWLING” includes a red bowling ball with three finger holes as the “O,” adding a playful and relevant touch. To the right of the text, a series of horizontal black and red lines of varying lengths create a stylized representation of a bowling pin, adding a visual element that ties back to the sport. The overall design is clean and modern, emphasizing the institution’s dedication to both the past and future of bowling.
Bowling Centers Association of Wisconsin (BCAW)
The Bowling Centers Association of Wisconsin (BCAW) logo is simple yet effective, highlighting the organization’s regional focus. The design features a silhouette of the state of Wisconsin in deep blue, providing a clear geographical context. Overlaying the state silhouette are three white bowling pins outlined in red, arranged in a triangular formation to symbolize the sport. The organization’s name, “Bowling Centers Association of Wisconsin,” arcs above the state silhouette in red, uppercase letters, creating a balanced and cohesive design. The use of state imagery and bowling elements effectively communicates the BCAW’s mission to support and promote bowling within Wisconsin.
Asian Bowling Federation (ABF)
The Asian Bowling Federation (ABF) logo is modern and globally oriented, reflecting the organization’s widespread influence across Asia. The design features a stylized blue bowling pin with a globe at its base, depicting the Asian continent in white against a blue background. This combination of the pin and globe emphasizes the federation’s focus on bowling within the Asian region. The acronym “ABF” is displayed in bold, black uppercase letters at the top left of the logo, ensuring strong brand recognition. To the right of the pin, the full name “Asian Bowling Federation” is written in a clean, black sans-serif font, arranged vertically to balance the composition. The overall design is sleek and professional, highlighting the ABF’s commitment to promoting bowling across Asia.
