NEPA Mayor Ready to Roll at National Bowling Tourney

Childs, Lackawanna County- He was just seven-years-old when he picked up a bowling ball for the first time. Now, Jermyn Mayor Bruce Smallacombe is heading to North Brunswick, New Jersey to bowl with the pros in the USBC Masters Tournament. "There is going to be pro-am tournament, where amateurs like myself get to bowl with the pros on Monday. We qualify throughout the week to bowl in the Masters on Sunday afternoon." says, Smallacombe. Many are used to seeing Smallacombe as a politician. Besides being Mayor of Jermyn, he also served on the Lackawanna County Board of Commissioners. Lately, Smallacombe has been spending plenty of time at Valley Lanes, practicing for the big competition. For this bowler, practicing isn't something he's used to. "I don't practice. I come in two nights a week. I don't throw any practice balls. I am practicing quite heavily for this tournament, but I am not one to practice any sport. I never warmed up, never practiced, I usually just go into it." Smallacombe has been stepping up his game, leading up to the competition. He's been practicing everyday, both physically and mentally. "Thinking of my shots, concentrating on where I stand, how I follow through. Making sure the balls fit and that the tape is right on all the balls. Making sure every ball is correct, shoes are clean, making sure all the equipment is ready to go." says, Smallacombe. Although he's heading to New Jersey solo, Smallacombe is on two local teams. His teammates find him to be an inspiration. "He's definitely somebody to look up to he's a fantastic bowler. He's very consistent. He helps his team on Monday nights when I bowl in the league with him."says, Brian Krok. For those who share a love for the game of bowling, Smallacombe has one piece of advice. He says, "Don't ever say you can't do it. You can. "