Sam Rice
Sam began bowling in his first league in 1949. After serving in the Army, he moved to Muskegon in 1953 and started a memorable bowling record in leagues across town. For 32 consecutive years, Sam served as league secretary for the Union League at Maple Lanes. Originally, the league was a "closed" league, meaning only members of a union qualified to bowl in the league. This made it difficult to fill teams for the league, but Sam was always able to recruit and fill the league completely. He also helped administer UAW tournaments.
In addition to his bowling officers contributions, Sam was a consistent high average competitor. He competed in a variety of leagues, including the highly competitive Maple Lanes Classic.
In reviewing his 60 years in bowling, Sam says his greatest accomplishment was rolling Muskegon's 7th 300 game in 1961. He also owns several other high game awards, including 299 and 298 games as well as a 768 high series.
His many friends would say in reviewing Sam's active bowling life, its a toss-up to pick a category for nominations to the Hall of Fame (Accomplishment Category or Meritorious Category). His deserving election to the Veteran's Category of the Muskegon Bowling Hall of Fame recognizes all of his bowling accomplishments.
Congratulations, Sam, we are proud to welcome you as our newest member.