TNBA's STORY

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The National Bowling Association, Inc. is a non-profit corporation, organized in August 1939, in Detroit, Michigan, for the express purpose of encouraging Blacks to develop their skills in the game of Ten Pins. It was originally known as the "National Negro Bowling Association" because at the time of its birth, Negroes and other Non-Caucasians were not permitted to belong to ABC or WIBC because of certain restrictive clauses in their constitutions. Because our membership included a large number of Asians, Hispanics and people of color other than Black, in 1944, our organization was renamed "The National Bowling Association, Inc." We participated actively in the fight for "Equality in Bowling," and in 1950 both ABC and WIBC removed the Non-Caucasian clauses from their constitutions. Starting in 1951 TNBA members have enjoyed the privilege of competing in all open sanctioned tournaments.

Although approximately 80% of our present membership is Black, TNBA has no racial restrictions whatsoever as to membership or participation. TNBA's slogan is "Promoter of Sportsmanship, Fellowship and Friendship" - Ideals which are accomplished through organized competition.