Skipp’s Bowling Center brings in the crowds to play the lanes in leagues and just for fun.
Skipp’s Bowling Center: Best bowling alley
The Pointer
nmeye177@uwsp.edu
The votes have been tallied and all the victors have been decided for this year’s Best of Point contest. Skipp’s Bowling Center has been named the best place to put on some used shoes and toss a 12-pound ball at some pins. The Opiola family was happy to accept the title of best place to bowling alley.
“It’s surprising and an honor,” said Tara Opiola. “I wouldn’t have guessed; you hope, but there is competition.”
Skipp’s Bowling Center was established in Stevens Point in 1955, by Anthony Opiola and has been run by the family ever since. Anthony, a Chicago native, owned a bar on the square before taking a chance on the location for sale at the corner of Strongs Ave and Park St. The business gets its name from Anthony, whose nickname is Skipp.
“This location came up for sale and he decided to try it,” said Tara. “But he was never a bowler.”
When Skipp’s was first opened there were eight bowling lanes, all of which were located upstairs. It wasn’t until the late 1960’s that the lanes were moved downstairs to where they are currently located. Now there are 24 lanes, more than enough for whoever ventures in. Whoever does wander in is sure to be greeted by a member of the Opiola family. This is the third generation of the Opiola family to run Skipp’s.
“It’s definitely a family affair,” said Tara. “We all work; we all put in a lot of hours.”
Away from the lanes, students can enjoy the myriad of other activities within Skipp’s Bowling Center.
Skipp’s was voted the best place to bowl by the campus student body. The atmosphere at Skipp’s is definitely inviting; a massive wrap around bar, an ATM that gives you drink deals, good food, the best game room in town and moonlight bowling every Friday and Saturday night. The stage is set for a night out for some college friends, but the biggest draw may be something else.
“I think it’s partially location, atmosphere and the college league is big with students,” said Tara.
The college bowling league at Skipp’s is held on Wednesday and Thursday nights at 9:30 p.m. and anyone is able to join. To reserve a spot all you need to do is call ahead of time, which may be good advice.
“We get anywhere from 60-90 [people],” said Tara. “Call ahead and sign up your team ‘cause we only have so many openings; Thursdays are almost full.”
Besides the college league, Skipp’s offers leagues for every type of bowler. There are men’s, women’s and mixed leagues as well as a junior league on Saturdays.
Beyond bowling, Skipp’s has a ballroom upstairs for every type of event: parties, weddings and even concerts. Last year, Skipp’s played host to Wisconsin natives The Crest and their brand of hip-hop for an all-ages show.
Skipp’s bowling is a business grounded in family tradition, something lost in the world of store chains and big business. Tara seemed very happy to know her family’s work is appreciated, but moreso expressed appreciation for the business of the students.
“Thank you, a big thank you,” said Tara. “It gave me the chills; I’m so excited.”
The Skipp’s college league begins next Wednesday. The cost to bowl is $3 per game.
