• Star Valley Station Manager, Amy Hansen shares how children ages 5-18 can earn scholarships with bowling
Star Valley Station provides an exciting opportunity for young bowlers with its Junior Bowling program, run by Amy Hansen, Manager of Star Valley Station. The program welcomes children of all skill levels, offering a structured yet fun environment where they can improve their game while making new friends.
The Junior Bowling program is held twice a week, with the “Littles” group (ages 5-11) meeting on Thursdays and the older youth (ages 12-18) gathering on Tuesdays. These young athletes not only have a chance to refine their bowling skills but also to compete at higher levels. Through the Star Valley Bowling Association, junior bowlers can participate in tournaments held across Wyoming, with travel opportunities available. More impressively, scholarships can be earned through these competitions, providing a tangible incentive for young participants to engage and excel.
“It’s a fun organization for them to come get to know different people,” said Hansen, emphasizing the social and developmental benefits of the sport. She has seen firsthand the rewards of the program—her daughter, Auderie Hansen, secured $6,500 in a Smart Account. Smart Account funds can be accessed for college expenses after graduation or passed down to younger siblings in the program.
With 45 bowlers currently participating, Hansen hopes to see even more youth join. “A lot of people don’t consider bowling as a sport, but it really is,” she noted. “A lot of these kids take it to heart.” The program runs from September through March, and throughout the year, college coaches visit to help coach these young bowlers.
In addition to individual growth, bowling cultivates teamwork. Since it functions as both an individual and team sport, young bowlers learn to collaborate while improving their personal skills. Recognizing that not every child finds a place in traditional high school sports, Hansen appreciates seeing kids develop a passion for bowling. “Some kids don’t fit into other high school sports… I love to see the kids progress and get better and better every year.”
As an added summer perk, Star Valley Station plans to offer free bowling games for children every Wednesday. Hansen encourages those interested in joining the next Junior Bowling season to sign up now—it’s not too late to get on the list! Parents are welcome to reach out to Amy Hansen at (307) 886-5606 or visit www.starvalleystation.com/
Beyond the Junior Bowling program, Star Valley Station is enhancing its offerings with a newly opened Pro Shop, staffed by four certified ball drillers, including Hansen herself. Additionally, Star Valley Station is undergoing renovations, featuring new signage and an upgraded menu at Some Dudes Pizza. The Wednesday “Beat the Clock” pizza deal offers a one-topping medium pizza starting at just $5.00.
For those looking to explore a new sport, improve their skills, and even earn scholarships, Junior Bowling at Star Valley Station is the perfect place to start. As Hansen puts it, “Our youth are the future of our bowlers.”
