(5-Person Team
Match and Baker Match Formats)
Although something different
and out of the normal thinking process for the game of bowling, we have
provided a GENERAL position description of each spot in our varsity team
line-up for Traditional Matches (5-person team games) and Baker Matches. Done
primarily for public relations purposes, the descriptions attempt to make
spectators and the media better aware of the basic duties for each position.
#1 - Lead-Off / #2 - Scout / #3 -
Bridge / #4 - Set-Up / #5 - Anchor
#1 - Lead-Off = defined as someone who gets things started for the
team - usually needs to be one of the better physically skilled players in the
line-up - players role is to consistently keep shots in play (on line to target)
and be a solid spare shooter - person is traditionally an emotionally steady,
upbeat, or sparkplug-type player - must be mentally secure enough to handle the
ups and downs of lane changes and stress of matches - must be able to
communicate openly and accurately, no matter how they are performing - a
quality, consistent performance by this player sets the tone of team.
#2 - Scout = defined as someone who gathers information or makes
a search - this player keeps the flow of the game moving forward; however, they
must actively watch what Lead-Off does and evaluates the quality of the shot
thrown - Scout takes physical and/or verbal information from Lead-Offs shot to
determine if major or minor adjustments are - must be willing to try any
adjustments that is asked of them at a moments notice for benefit of team - if
different handed Lead-Off, Scout functions as the #1 player for that side of
the lane - must also must be a solid communicator.
#3 - Bridge = defined as something that connects or supports
other parts - is a key player to keep the momentum of the line-up going OR get
the remaining portion of the line-up started performing well - makes final
adjustments from shots that Lead-Off and Scout threw or continues the positive
momentum created from the upper portion of the line-up - traditionally the
Bridges level of play stays quite steady no matter what the competition environment
provides - if above positions are filled by younger or less-experienced
teammates, the Bridge is usually a more experienced player (or visa-versa).
#4 - Set-Up = player who continues the positive flow of the team
from teams upper positions - functions as a vital element in lower portion of
line-up as the team prepares to finish the frame or game (such as in the Baker
Team format) - traditionally a more aggressive and versatile player, is usually
one of the top 2-3 most physically skilled members on the team - will
consistently keep shots close to targets; is an excellent spare shooter -
repeatedly gives high-quality effort and provides best option to have positive
momentum carried into the Anchor position - is traditionally a highly experienced
player.
#5 - Anchor = player who put the finishing touches on the frame
or game for the team - traditionally the best, strongest, most experienced
player in the line-up - very proficient with their skills and adjustments;
traditionally also the most versatile player - doesnt mind pressure situations;
tends to perform best under highly competitive situations - at times, may even elevate
their level of play to carry the team - thrives on making their best effort
under the circumstances and let the results dictate the outcome - if not
traditional the Anchor player, role is filled by most experienced and matches
up best with equipment and playing conditions for that day - must be able to
help players communicate and keep focus of task at hand.
Baker Matches
The Baker System was devised
in the 1980s to incorporate a stronger element of Team play. Each game is
completed as a regular game of 10-pin bowling. However each player only
completes two frames. Therefore, within this format no one player can dominate
or carry a team and the group (within the 5-Person line-up) must complete the
game together. Each player must perform an equal role for the team to complete
the game and significant communication and teamwork must be used to perform
efficiently . . . even if it means having a substitute complete a frame to
ensure success and maintain team momentum.
Frames 3 and 8 = completed by the Bridge / Frames 4
and 9 = completed by the Set-Up