In order to provide a more efficient and rewarding system for youth bowlers, and attract more youngsters to certified league play, several major changes will be made to USBC Youth programs in the 2009-10 season. The changes:

1. Bowling centers will have the option to directly process memberships, averages and awards to USBC.

2. A basic youth membership ($5) option has been added for those in leagues meeting 12 or fewer sessions (the standard youth and Junior Gold membership categories, at $17 and $30, respectively, remain unchanged).

3. Special awards will be added for ages 12 and under, and the 300 game and 800 series rings will return.

4. Finally, those who have not reached their 20th birthday on or before Aug. 1 will be able to join as USBC Youth members.

"We have seen USBC Youth membership decline at a significant rate, and a large number are currently bowling in non-certified leagues," said USBC Youth Development Director Brian Graham. "These changes aim to provide more value in USBC leagues and make it easier to join."
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