This month the largest competitive women’s bowling tournament in Illinois will bring hundreds of bowlers and their fans to the Quad Cities for the first time in three decades, Visit Quad Cities announced.
The Illinois State United States Bowling Congress’ (USBC) 97th Annual Women’s Tournament opens on Saturday, Feb. 21 when competitors hit the lanes at Highland Park Bowl, 4204 Avenue of the Cities, Moline.
The competition runs through Sunday, April 19. That women’s tournament also will be followed a month later by a youth invitational tournament. It’s at QC Entertainment, 4401 44th Ave, Moline, Visit QC said in a Monday, Feb. 9, news release.
Competitors from across the state will participate in the USBC-certified tournament. Comp;etitors will showcase their talent and sportsmanship at a variety of times, Visit QC said.
In addition to bringing bowlers and their families to Highland Park, visitors will generate overnight stays. They also will visit local restaurants, attractions, and businesses.
“Welcoming the Illinois State USBC Women’s Tournament back to the Quad Cities for the first time since 1994 reflects the strength of our sports venues and the collaborative work of Sports QC and our local partners,” Joan Kranovich, vice president of business growth & director of Sports QC, powered by Visit Quad Cities, said in the release.
“Events like this drive meaningful economic impact while showcasing our community as a welcoming destination for athletes and families, and we’re proud to help create opportunities that benefit both visitors and our region,” she added.
This year’s women’s tournament is just the latest one that will be held in the Quad Cities. Most recently, men descended on the Quad Cities in 2024 for the Iowa State USBC Open Tournament hosted by two Davenport bowling centers.
Youth bowlers next
Illinois State USBC Tournament Manager Sandy Darnstaedt said the Illinois women look forward to competing in the QC tourney.
“I would like to give a shout-out to the local association Board of Directors for Greater Rock Island County USBC and the management at Highland Park Bowl for how wonderful they have been to work with and how eager they are to make this tournament a success,” she said in the news release.
The women’s tournament isn’t the only one that will bring bowlers and their families to the region this spring.
“The Illinois State USBC also conducts a youth scholarship tournament for local youth bowlers called the Hilda E. Schroeder Youth Invitational, which will be held at QC Entertainment on March 14,” Ms. Darnstaedt said. “The tournament is held in conjunction with the State Women’s Tournament and takes place in the same area.”
For more information about the Illinois State USBC, visit illinoisstateusbc.org.
