California bowler spreads message at Open Championships
Rosa, 57, founded LABACA in 1977 on the premise that bowling centers are family-friendly environments that can help keep local youth off the streets and increase awareness of a growing social problem.
Rosa's motivation for helping kids stems from the appreciation he has for those who helped guide him in the right direction, and his crusade has continued into his days as the Youth Director at AMF Beverly Lanes in Montebello.
"I use bowling as a tool because I see the growth in the sport as a family-oriented activity," said Rosa, who has spent countless hours volunteering with numerous local and national organizations that deal directly with youth-related concerns. "In the last 10-15 years, bowling has started to overcome the image of being associated with drinking and smoking. I want kids to know that bowling centers, not just in L.A., can be a safe haven to go to if they are feeling threatened."
Rosa continuously works with local police to help further his cause and has earned some national recognition, but he still is hoping for a time when his cause will receive unanimous industry support.
"Getting the opportunity to meet people and bowlers at events like this helps the program continue to be a success," said Rosa, who posted 548 in singles, 511 in doubles and 497 in team for a 1,556 all-events total in his third Open Championships appearance and first since 1999. "Even though I know there are many kids out there who already have had their lives changed through LABACA, there will always be more we can do to keep our youth safe."
Presenting sponsors for the 2007 USBC Open Championships are Eldorado, Silver Legacy and Circus Circus Hotel/Casinos in Reno, Nev. Other participating sponsors are Kegel, official lane maintenance provider, Sands Regency Casino and Hotel, official brackets sponsor and supporting sponsors Atlantis Casino Resort and Spa and Harrah's Casino and Hotel.
By Matt Cannizzaro and David Ellis USBC Communications