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Jerry Tessman
Meritorious Service
1991
Bowling career began as a pinsetter at
Muggley's Lanes from 1949-1951 and as a member of the Wilson High School bowling team from
1952-1954. Has been a sanctioned member of the ABC since the start of the 1954 season. Is
an active member of the Harkins Straightaway League, having completed 33 consecutive
years. Served as league President and ten years as league Secretary-Treasurer. Bowls in
the Twin City Classic League with 19 years of participation. Helped with the City
Tournament for several years while in college and then was elected to Board of Directors
of the Greater St. Paul Bowling Association in 1958 at the age of 22. Served as editor of
the association year book for eleven years beginning with the third issue. Instrumental in
revision of Association Bylaws and in leading process for Incorporation. Initiated
Association Newsletter and served as editor for four years. Served as a Vice-President
from 1965 to 1968 and was the Association's President during the 1968-1969 season. In 1970
he was elected Treasurer of the Greater St. Paul Bowling Association and served in that
capacity for 16 years during which time streamlined the Association's accounting
procedures, developed a new budget process, improved financial reporting and initiated new
investment strategies. Elected to the Board of Directors of the Minnesota State Bowling
Association in 1968 and to Vice-President in 1984. Elected President of the State
Association for the 1987-88 season. At the State level, led the effort to modernize the
Bylaws, revamped financial systems and reports, fostered development of the Association's
Newsletter and initiated a Strategic Planning process to help chart the future direction
of the Association. In 1981 elected at the National Convention as a Jurisdiction Director
for the American Bowling Congress and was named as the Ninth Vice-President of the ABC in
1988. Currently serves as Sixth Vice-President. In addition to serving and representing
116 local associations in Wisconsin and Minnesota, has been very active at the National
level serving on the Finance and Budget, Officers, Education and Marketing Committees. Has
chaired the Membership and Legislative Relations Committees and currently serves as
Chairman of the Planning Committee and the Joint WIBC/ABC Contingency Planning Task Force.
As an ABC Director and Officer has led efforts for financial reform and disclosure and
initiated strategic planning as a management practice for the Congress. Has served for 12
years on the Minnesota State Bowling Council and has been active in many local and
regional bowling functions and promotions. Has competed in 20 ABC National Tournaments and
has consistently average between 185 and 190 in both leagues and tournament play. His
lifetime high game is 289 (four times, once in moonlight bowling), high average is 198 and
has bowled five 700-or-more series, tops being 728. Has been an active member of the 700
Club and won the B Division Championship in 1988.
Last Updated : Jan-01-2013