Yes, bowling balls are bought due to the PBA all the time, they are called youth bowlers. They might not know any better, but I am willing to wager that their ball selection, at least among competitive youth bowlers, is largely determined by their favorite professional bowler.
I understand why they are doing this, but I don't see how this doesn't hurt them in the end without concerted effort by the ball manufacturers themsevles on this issue.
Are you serious? Youth bowlers influenced by professional bowling...Please?
The logic behind the comment could have been validated like 15-20 years ago when these stars of bowling where on ABC and everybody with a TV and rabbit ears could tune in. I remember in the mid 80's, although I was just a kid, when moms and dads everywhere where league bowlers and they'd watch the ABC telecast as families. Bowling was HUGE back then and you knew all the bowlers.
But really...with todays economy! Even the past 5 years, you want to sell a bowling ball, lower the overhead and bring prices down. There isn't a parent in their right mind will buy their youth bowler a $250 bowling ball just because they saw somebody on TV bowl with.
Put it on the shelf, make it look pretty and save that same customer $50-$60 dollars. Now your selling bowling balls.
Since we are going down this path, even if it was PBA bowlers driving up sales because kids saw them using so and so's product. Most of these kids lack adequate coaching to take full advantage of the potential that todays equipment offers.
Lower the prices and get some certified coaches to spend some time on the lanes Saturday mornings. Have these ball companies hand out a few jersey for the coaches to wear and give them a couple balls to throw with the kids. Now your getting product reped right if front of their eyes. It's still a financial risk, this way more people have the chance to take advantage of what's available.
One other thought... Have these companies work out a grant program with youth associations. Apply for equipment. Between the 2nds and Blems and low end equipment that could be given away. Spend your marketing dollars by putting so products in the hands of beginners for free. That's going to say more than some guy (or girl) you catch a glimpse of while surfing through the channels waiting for the next NFL game to start.
