On Sunday evening (March 12), three bowling icons were inducted into the Professional Bowlers Association Hall of Fame. The 2023 PBA Hall of Fame class included Lennie Boresch Jr. of Kenosha, Pete McCordic of Katy, Texas, and Akron’s Fred Borden.
The ceremony, held at The Hilton Akron/Fairlawn in Fairlawn, Ohio, commenced the week of the PBA Tournament of Champions.
Boresch entered the Hall of Fame in the superior performance category for his PBA50 career, while McCordic and Borden were recognized for meritorious service.
Boresch became eligible for the PBA Hall of Fame last June when he captured the 2022 Senior U.S. Open title, marking his fifth PBA50 win and second major. The 60-year-old owns eight runner-up finishes as well as 33 PBA Regional Tour titles (25 standard and eight PBA50).
“His journey to the Hall of Fame has been unconventional to say the least,” said Lennie’s son Jacob, who introduced his father. “But it’s been a journey filled with hard work, perseverance and resilience. His longevity is an example of a major sport so unique. It’s a game you can do your whole life and continue to get better at regardless of age.”
Boresch joined the PBA at 19 and spent years grinding on Tour as a part-time player without much success. He later won his first regional at 32 and made his first PBA telecast at 48.
In 2012, the PBA50 Tour presented an opportunity for Boresch.
“It was a chance to chase the dream again,” he said. “To do this and compete with some of the legends of the game. It’s just surreal to me. I never thought that this could happen.
“Believe in yourself, work hard, chase your dreams and never sell yourself short of what you can achieve,” Boresch said in closing. “Dreams do come true. It did for me.”
The Hall of Fame ceremony begins PBA Tournament of Champions week at the historic AMF Riviera Lanes in Fairlawn, Ohio. More information on the Tournament of Champions is available HERE.
PHOTO: PROFESSIONAL BOWLERS ASSOCIATION
