Bowling manager awarded certification Published Dec. 14, 2006 By Senior Airman Holly MacDonald 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C -- A Shaw employee recently earned the Silver Certification as part of the Air Force Bowling Center Certification Program, an achievement only four others currently have. Gary Funk, Shaw's bowling center manager, received his Silver Certification Dec. 7. Mr. Funk has spent 12 years at Shaw and eight years in the certification program. His first two years were spent working on his Bronze Certification and the last six were spent working on his Silver Certification, he said. The certification program fosters increased professionalism, enhances the bowling manager's image, promotes continuing education and improves management of Air Force bowling centers, said Jim Vose, 20th Services Squadron deputy chief of services. The program is voluntary and divided into three levels: bronze, silver and gold, which are also referred to as basic, advanced and master. Mr. Funk said his competitive nature and his desire to bring a more professional image to Shaw Lanes encouraged him to earn his Silver Certification. For the Silver Certification, the person must have a minimum of four years beyond basic certification or five years as an Armed Forces bowling center manager or assistant manager, Mr. Vose said. The person must complete a 30-hour advanced bowling management course with instruction in lane maintenance, marketing and promotions, financial operations, customer service and quick-service food operations. Also, the person must possess a basic coaching certification recognized by the bowling industry and complete a pro shop training course, which consists of ball fitting, drilling techniques, product knowledge and a working knowledge of how to operate a bowling pro shop. The person must also complete an advanced lane maintenance course and a bowling marketing course or seminar. While accomplishing his requirements, Mr. Funk said he had to overcome obstacles in his own life. "For a couple of years, I was unable to travel and attend classes because I was caring for my Dad before he passed on," Mr. Funk said. He also had to make sure the bowling center was still running smoothly while he attended classes. Mr. Funk gives credit to his key staff: Horace Garrison, Shaw Lanes assistant manager; Ron Grimm, Shaw Lanes head mechanic; Wayne Robelen, Pro Shop technician; Margaret Milliner, Shaw Lanes snack bar manager, and Randy Woodcum, Shaw Lanes night manager, for helping him attain his Silver Certification. "They have been with me for a good while now, holding down the fort during times I've been away attending classes," Mr. Funk said. Mr. Funk's new goal is to achieve his Gold Certification before he retires in three years.