The Underground Bowling Association is a family of serious players, passionate spectators, and innovative franchisees. Since 2009, the UBA has brought high-energy competition to the lanes, hosting over 5,000 events at over 400 bowling centers. With 13,000 passionate members across 13 states—and franchises expanding fast—its reach is only getting bigger.
The UBA isn’t your typical bowling organization—it’s a high-energy, competition-driven entertainment platform that transforms traditional bowling into an electrifying experience. Think fierce rivalries, team personas, and show-stopping events that draw in both serious bowlers and passionate spectators. Bowlers are driven by the UBA’s high-energy events, a unique variety of potential prize payouts, and the edgy atmosphere of like-minded, competitive, fun players.
The UBA Difference
How is the UBA experience different than typical bowling events? Oh, let us count the ways…
The UBA family is comprised of bowling enthusiasts who love the game, want to compete in the sport, and enjoy the experience, no matter if they are players, spectators, coordinators, or host centers. With over 230 active franchisees, the UBA has built a nationwide movement that blends the intensity of sports, the excitement of WWE, and the community-driven spirit of local leagues.
And it’s not just on the lanes where the UBA dominates. Their YouTube channel is buzzing with over 6,000 dedicated followers, and live streams regularly rack up between 2,000 and 6,000 views, proving that UBA bowlers aren’t just playing the game—they’re putting on a show that fans can’t get enough of!
History of the UBA
With over 230 franchises and a growing presence across the U.S., the UBA isn’t just a bowling organization—it’s a full-blown movement. We’ve built a culture that blends intense competition with over-the-top showmanship, creating an experience unlike anything else in the sport.
Leading the charge are our visionary founders, Philip Chance, and Tynell Tate. Philip, the mastermind behind UBA and its Brand Manager, saw an opportunity to shake up traditional bowling by injecting energy, personality, and a spectacle-driven approach. His vision gave the UBA its distinct identity, setting it apart from anything else in the industry. Meanwhile, Tynell, now CEO, has been instrumental in taking the UBA to the next level, driving rapid growth, and positioning us as the go-to entertainment platform for competitive bowling. Together, they built a model that fuses the franchise structure of fast-food operations, the competitive edge of pro sports, and the electrifying drama of professional wrestling.
The UBA’s reach spans from New York and New Jersey to the DMV, the Carolinas, and Texas, with each region adding its own flavor to our ever-expanding network. Behind the scenes, a team of bowling-loving staff members keeps the machine running—handling event operations, media, marketing, and strategic growth while preserving the unique culture that makes UBA what it is.
But what really makes us different?
We’re not just about bowling; we’re about putting on a show. Like WWE, we bring the drama—epic rivalries, bold personas, and unforgettable moments. UBA teams and players don’t just compete; they create characters, engage in playful smack talk, and make every matchup feel like a main event. Every tour stop and every event is more than just a competition—it’s an experience.
In the UBA, every frame matters, every match tells a story, and every player brings something unique to the lanes. We’re a family, a community, and a force transforming the sport of bowling—one electrifying showdown at a time.
Franchise Information
As a UBA franchise owner, you’ll bring this electrifying experience to your community, joining a rapidly growing national network that’s redefining the sport. UBA franchisees enjoy exclusive opportunities to
- Build or sponsor a competitive team
- Host thrilling, high-energy events
- Become a key player in the fast-growing UBA community
The details:
- Each UBA franchisee belongs to a UBA district, which includes approximately 10 - 12 centers.
- Each district hosts one tour stop per month, rotating among participating centers.
- Tour stops take place on Saturdays or Sundays during the day.
- Every UBA team must participate in one tour stop per month. With team rosters allowing up to 50 players, this ensures strong representation at UBA events.
- For each tour stop, teams select nine bowlers from their roster. These players are divided into three groups of three, with each group bowling three games against other UBA teams.
- The UBA tour season runs from September through June, leading up to playoff competitions in July and August.
- UBA’s Point & Prize System: Teams earn points and cash prizes based on wins, standings, and participation (clarify specific achievements), encouraging greater involvement in additional events.
- UBA Managers oversee each district to schedule tour stops and organize competitions.
- Bowlers register, pay, and receive winnings online, making the process simple and ensuring events start on time.
- Districts frequently host additional special events beyond monthly tour stops based on bowler interest.
Getting started is affordable and easy. With an initial modest franchise fee in your first year and a small annual renewal thereafter, you can secure your franchise status and keep your team in the game.
