IBPSIA is proud to recognize Jim O’Reilly as the 2026 recipient of the prestigious Friends of IBPSIA Award,an honor reserved for individuals whose lifelong dedication, integrity, and passion have made a lasting impact on the bowling industry.
Few individuals embody the true spirit of this award more completely than Jim O’Reilly.
Jim began his career in the bowling business in 1973, launching what would become more than five decades of service, leadership, and mentorship within the industry. Throughout his remarkable career, Jim has devoted his life to strengthening bowling at every level, from bowling center operations and coaching to education, pro shop development, and industry leadership.
A cornerstone of Jim’s legacy is his outstanding work in the pro shop and distribution side of the industry, where he spent 35 years as a bowling distributor salesman, representing Bob’s Business of Red Wing, Minnesota, one of the Midwest’s most respected bowling supply distributors. In that role, Jim served pro shops, bowling centers, and technicians throughout Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Michigan, becoming a trusted advisor and invaluable resource to countless professionals across the region. His knowledge of bowling equipment, lane maintenance, pro shop operations, and customer development has helped shape the success of generations of bowling businesses.
Beyond distribution, Jim continues his active involvement today through his leadership at Riverboat Lanes and Riverboat Pro Shop. His ability to combine proprietor experience with elite-level pro shop expertise has made him one of the most well-rounded and respected professionals in the bowling industry.
Jim’s dedication to education and bowler development is equally impressive. His credentials and service include:
- USBC Silver Level Coach
- IBPSIA Certified Professional
- Morich Certified Ball Driller
- Kegel Level II Technician
- United States Bowling Academy Instructor
- USA Bowling Instructor for Minnesota, Iowa, and South Dakota
- Minnesota High School Bowling Commissioner
- Youth and High School Bowling Coach
His volunteer leadership within the sport has been extensive, including service on the Bowling Proprietors Association of Minnesota Executive Board and as Past President of BPAM, where he worked tirelessly to advocate for bowling center owners and the future of the sport.
Perhaps most importantly, Jim is universally respected for the way he carries himself, always willing to help, always eager to teach, and always committed to doing what is best for bowling. His kindness, humility, professionalism, and willingness to mentor others have left an indelible mark on countless bowlers, technicians, proprietors, and young professionals entering the industry.
The Friends of IBPSIA Award honors individuals who demonstrate not just excellence, but heart, and Jim O’Reilly represents that ideal in every way.
Please join us in congratulating Jim O’Reilly on this well-deserved recognition and thanking him for a lifetime of friendship, service, and dedication to the bowling industry.
Congratulations, Jim!