RAF Mildenhall Bowling Center offers fun for families and pros alike Published July 18, 2008 By Breane Lyga 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs RAF MILDENHALL, England -- The RAF Mildenhall Bowling Center is home to many recreational favorites, a fun game for all ages and skill levels, food and music - not to mention the rumbling sound of anticipation as the bowling ball zooms down the lane and the satisfying crash of ten pins many have grown to love. The bowling center offers many services, ranging from children's birthday parties and catering to professional leagues and pro shop. League play Leagues typically run from September to May. On Thursdays and Sundays, the Anglo-American League plays from 7 to 11 p.m. This league consists of local civilians and Team Mildenhall members, some of whom have played for more than 37 years. Intramural leagues meet on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at the same time. Usually there are four people on a team, but it is not limited. Players don't need to be professionals to play in leagues - the leagues are designed with fun in mind. The bowling center staff can offer advice and direction for those interested in forming or joining a league. Bowling accessories and services The bowling center pro shop sells bowling balls, accessories and shoes. There is also a drilling and repair service available for all equipment. The pro shop is certified to ensure all equipment and services comply with international bowling standards. For beginners and those hoping to improve their game, there are private training sessions available from U.S. Bowling Congress certified coaches. There are two options: one half hour session for $25 or one hour session for $30. "My pin fall went up by 30 points," Dan Tavarez, bowling center manager, said. "It's surprising how you wouldn't normally look at specific forms, but they point it out. There's definitely a difference in throwing a ball down the lane and 'hook' bowling." In September, the center hopes to offer a free 20-minute crash course of bowling for beginners, called "Coach it up." Of course, the bowling center also has a wide variety of food and beverages for sale as well. Parties and events The bowling center is a very popular choice for children's birthday parties. There are one-game and two-game packages available, focused mainly for children age 7 and under, which include meals, plates, hats, balloons and shoe rentals. Space is limited, depending on the day of the week, so Mr. Tavarez recommends booking the party as soon as possible. Squadron gatherings and other private functions are also welcome at the center during the day. Prices vary according to group size, but discounts are available on a case-by-case basis. Fridays are a popular choice, so reserving the center as soon as possible is advisable. Family and recreational bowling Aside from league nights and parties, there are a few nights during the week that cater to the recreational bowling community. "Munch Bowl" is a family bowling package on Monday nights which includes three games, shoe rental and meal for $8.75 per person. "Cosmic Bowling" opens from 9 to 11 p.m on Friday and Saturday nights, and also Sunday nights during non-league play. Disco lights, music and neon bowling balls makes this an entertaining evening for groups or individuals. During non-league season, Tuesdays are "Ladies Night" from 6 to 11 p.m., and women receive $1 off each game. Wednesdays boast "Dorm Daze," during non-league season - up to six people per lane can pay a flat rate of $10 an hour for unlimited games. The RAF Mildenhall Bowling Center is an entertaining place to enjoy this world-renowned sport, whether you are a professional or beginner. For more information on services, hours, training, leagues or reservations, call 238-2348.