Derek Payne started bowling in his 20s for fun, but he enjoyed the sport well enough to consider joining a league at Seminary Lanes. While learning to improve his game, he went to have his first ball drilled by Gary Parsons, who showed him the mechanics of the game and later hired him to work at Red Nelson’s Bowlers World. With this first ball drilling, he achieved his first 300 game.
While working for Parsons, Derek began to drill balls and increase his knowledge to improve his game. His education and training provided him with the tools necessary to be proficient at the game and, as a result, he has achieved some of the highest honors a bowler can get.
His training consists of certification as a Technical Bowling Pro Shop Professional by the International Bowling Pro Shop Instructors Association (IPSIA), and he has attended several bowling ball seminars to enhance his skills. He has certification for his skill in measuring and drilling by the patented Max Y Grip.
In October 2023, Derek became a Silver Level coach and began to coach youth bowlers of all ages and adults who aspired to improve their game.
Derek is a bowler who gives his heart and soul to the game. He continues to work at World Class Pro Shop, where he has been for over 30 years as a certified ball driller.
Some of Derek’s achievements include: 40-plus perfect games; eight 299 games and one 298; numerous 700 series as well as several 800 series, with the highest being 851. He’s been a member of the Professional Bowlers Association for approximately 33 years and also is a member of the Radical Bowling Ball Regional Staff.
Local association recognition includes: high average male in 2022-2023 in the Bud Scratch Trios league at Fort Meade with a Sport shot average of 196.55; placed eighth (229.8778 average) on the standard House shot in the Monday Morning Trios league at Crofton; served this past season as vice president of the Friday Night Mixed Duos league at Crofton; member of the Registered Volunteer Program; Silver Level coach since 2023; and PBA Regional tournament participating member for over three years. Derek also has participated in many NCAUSBCA tournaments as well as regional tournaments, placing in the top five.
Derek Payne’s performance on and off the lanes, his contributions and service to the bowlers as well as the recognition he has obtained in the sport presents him as a worthy addition to the NCAUSBCA Hall of Fame.
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