“Not only is bowling one of the most popular sports in the United States today, bowling is the number one participation sport in America”, states Robert Swenson. As owners and operators, Swenson and his wife Shelly have operated the All Star Bowl and Northsider since 1999 and have witnessed the industry’s “strikes” and “gutters.” With the addition of out-door seating at the “Northsider” bar and lounge, “It’s an exciting time because things seem to be going in the right direction,” said Swenson. All Star remains the longest running bowling alley in the FM area. It was first built in 1960 and opened under the name of Town & Country Lanes.
As a 1979 Moorhead High graduate, Swenson attended today’s Northland Community and Technical College – East Grand Forks in the Diesel Equipment Technology program. He worked in the diesel field for 20 years at several local businesses until he followed his passion for bowling. Always an avid bowler, Swenson had always thought about owning his own lanes. Then it was a perfect match when the previous All Star Lanes owner, Steve Henrickson, decided to retire and offered him the opportunity to bowl for dollars.
Buying a small business was a major step, shared Swenson. It was an exciting opportunity, but also a challenge by taking on greater than normal financial risk in order to pursue his passion. With the support of his wife and their four children, Chris, Ashley, Kevin, and Becky, the family decided to leave the comfort of employment to enter the world of owning a business and self-determination.
Bowling has a long and rich history, and today it is one of the most popular sports in the world. One fun fact about bowling is that the first bowling balls were wooden and it wasn’t until the early 1900s that rubber ones replaced them. Additionally, the game was played outdoors until the early 1840s when indoor bowling lanes made their debut.
Among the large number of reasons for its popularity is that bowling is a very flexible activity, as it is both a recreation and a sport. Bowling allows players to use easy adjustment methods, which is one of the main reasons a lot of adults and children are able to enjoy in this exciting test of skill. Bowling continues to be the most popular type of indoor social entertainment because people of all ages may gather and enjoy the sport at their own level.
However, one of the most important bowling facts in today’s health conscience society is that bowling offers health benefits to those who play regularly and can contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Bowling is also considered to be a very good form of relaxation, a fun way to socialize, and a way to release stress.
With the addition of the “Northsider” lounge, one can relive the triumphs and defeat of a night of bowling with an adult beverage. Or, join your neighbors and friends on Friday and Saturday night for karaoke. The newly remodeled area is available for parties and other community events. Stop by, an experience awaits you at the All Star Bowl and Northsider.
Robert & Shelly Swenson
309 17th St N, Moorhead, MN 56560
218) 233-2020
allstarbowl.webs.com