In a world where kids are constantly encouraged to find their passion, Kimberworth Youth Bowling Club is helping them discover so much more – confidence, community, and even national recognition.

This isn’t just a bowling club. It’s a place where young people grow and thrive, on and off the lanes.

Known for producing players who have gone on to regional and national teams, this inclusive club has gained recognition for its strong sense of community.

Whether your child is looking for a new hobby, a supportive team environment, or a shot at competitive sport, Kimberworth Youth Bowling Club offers something truly special.

The club’s history goes back over 50 years when a youth team was launched at the old Firth Park Bowling Centre in Sheffield. When rumours surfaced that the centre was to close, the club moved to the Superbowl in Kimberworth where they have been based since 2017.

Today, the club has a growing membership with around 15 children and young people aged six to 20.

Bowling is a sport for everyone: boys and girls, quiet thinkers and high-energy go-getters, serious athletes and casual weekend rollers. It’s accessible, affordable, social, and uniquely rewarding.

The sport offers a unique blend of physical activity, mental focus, and personal achievement.

Whether your child is brand new to the game or already dreaming of strikes and spares, they’ll find coaching tailored to every skill level. With a handicapped league, kids are encouraged to improve at their own pace while still being part of a team.

Club secretary and coach, Mick Beeley, has been involved for over 30 years. A keen bowler in his younger days, he encouraged his own children to join the club when it was based at Firth Park.

Having run an adults’ league, Mick was voted in as secretary temporarily in 1996 when the preceding one resigned – and he’s been in the position ever since.

“The sport has changed so much in the last 30 years. It’s a lot more technical now and we have things like oiling machines which makes the logistics of competitive bowling easier,” Mick says. “I get more enjoyment now as a coach than a player. Watching the kids bowl and win gives you a real buzz.”

Mick and his fellow coaches teach their members how to bowl without bumpers or ramps. While some of it is natural ability, players are taught how to hold and throw the ball correctly, where to stand and aim, how to make a spare, and what to do if the pins are split.

“One pin can make all the difference in winning,” Mick says.

The results speak for themselves. In recent years, several bowlers have earned spots on regional and national teams, including 14-year-old Lewis Simpson who represents Yorkshire in the under 16s and under 22s category.

That kind of success doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of great mentorship, hard work, and a club culture that truly cares about its players.

Their members are inspired by coaches like Mick’s son, Brett, who is the current British champion and a European gold medallist in transplant bowling.

Brett started bowling at age six before finding out he had autoimmune hepatitis as a teenager. Despite this, he first represented his country aged 15 at the Youth Triple Crown in Ireland.

After having a liver transplant eight years ago, Brett, now 37, has travelled near and far as part of team GB’s transplant squad. Last year he won gold at the Europeans in Portugal and this August he’s off to Germany to compete in the World Transplant Games.

At Kimberworth Youth Bowling Club, it’s not just about knocking down pins – it’s about lifting young people up.

“We’re not just a team, it’s like a family,” says the club’s youth representative, Lauren Flinders. “No individual is the same and we all have different abilities. However, we all get together like a well-oiled machine. We pick each other up when we’re down and we all cheer each other on. We stick together even if things don’t seem to work out properly.”

Many of the club’s young bowlers have discovered more than just a new hobby. For some, especially those on the autism spectrum like Thomas Oxborough, the structure and rhythm of bowling has provided a powerful outlet for focus and confidence.

“Thomas has grown massively in confidence since joining in September. He looks forward to his bowling sessions all week. It’s such a lovely place to come and everyone is so supportive. I’m so glad we found the club,” says mum Emma.

If you’re looking for a welcoming, positive and engaging activity for your child, the lanes are ready and waiting. There’s no experience necessary, so don’t worry if your child has never picked up a bowling ball before.

The season runs from September until June but during the summer months they still meet for a summer singles league. The club meets every Saturday morning 10am until lunchtime and sessions are £8 a week.

Parents and carers interested in enrolling their children are invited to attend a trial session or contact the club directly to learn more. Email Mick at mandatrophies@aol.com or call the Superbowl on 01709 914444.