
DATE: Thursday, November 6, 1997            TAG: 9711040149

SECTION: NORFOLK COMPASS         PAGE: 10   EDITION: FINAL 

TYPE: BOWLER OF THE WEEK 

SOURCE: BY GABI CHAPMAN, STAFF WRITER 

                                            LENGTH:   44 lines

NORFOLK MAN BOWLING IN AREA PBA TOURNEY

He's been a much-cited bowler over the years, and John Confalone just keeps getting better. Two weeks ago, he bowled games of 279, 267, and 279 at Pinboy's of Norfolk, for an 825 series - his highest ever.

He bowls all over South Hampton Roads, five nights a week, and it's no surprise that he's recorded nine perfect games and six series of 800 or better in his career.

This weekend, Confalone will be one of five local competitors to compete in the Professional Bowlers Association Ebonite Challenge at Pinboy's of Western Branch.

Confalone, a touring member of the PBA, recently landed his first sponsor, J.D. Childress.

``I'm just looking forward to this weekend,'' Confalone said of the Ebonite Challenge. ``I hope to do real well.''

Confalone's biggest fan this weekend will be his 3-year-old son, John Samuel Confalone IV. Confalone, a single dad, brings John everywhere he bowls.

``I'm thankful the nursury is open on Saturday nights,'' Confalone said. ``He loves to watch. Next year, he'll be joining too.'' ILLUSTRATION: Photo

Graphic

JOHN CONFALONE

Age: 27

Residence: Norfolk

Occupation: Custom vinyl window designer for J.D. Childress

Bowling center: Pinboy's of Norfolk, Pinboy's of Chesapeake,

Pinboy's of Lynnhaven, Pinboy's of Western Branch.

Current average: 228